What Are The Different Types Of Slings?

You’ve probably heard of web slings and lifting ropes slings. You may also have heard of steel core slings and alloy chain slings. Which one is right for your application? Here’s a quick guide. But before you make a final decision, be sure to read this article first. This way, you’ll be sure to decide which type of sling you need for your project.

Web slings:

A web sling is a flexible material passed around the load and through itself in rigging applications. It is attached to the lifting device at both ends, usually by webbing. The web sling’s width is called its length, while its rated capacity is the load limit at which it breaks. The weight of the load is divided by the width of the webbing, and its working load limit is expressed in kilograms or pounds.

Synthetic rope slings:

A synthetic rope sling is very strong and flexible. Its main advantage is its low weight, making it a good choice for various industries. These slings should be inspected by qualified and trained personnel before use. The rope must also have permanent and legible identification markings. This way, the sling can be easily identified in an emergency.

Steel core slings:

Steel wire rope slings have several advantages over the other two types of slings. First of all, wire rope has a low strength-to-weight ratio. The wire rope can also be damaged or broken, so it is best to replace it. In addition, steel core slings are less flexible and may be susceptible to rigging fatigue.

The body of each leg of a wire rope sling is hand-braided from smaller wire ropes. The loops are an integral part of the braided body. Many different braided slings are available, but an 8-Part Braided Body is the most common. Another popular braided sling is the 6-Part Braided Body, which has a flat cross-section. Steel core slings are excellent for several applications but are prone to kinking and doglegging.

Alloy chain slings:

Alloy chain slings should be inspected for stretch regularly. While an overall length inspection may not show elongation, a link-by-link inspection is essential to find signs of stretch. In most cases, a stretch of up to 20% is acceptable. Identifying larger elongation should be a top priority. Overloading can also cause a stretch and should be avoided.