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How to Select the Right Sling

Broadly speaking, the selection of the right sling is based on the following few factors:

The size of the load
The weight of the load
The shape of the load
The temperature and sensitivity of the material being moved
Environmental conditions
Outcome of the visual inspection (This is to be done before each use to ensure safety and effectiveness)

There are several different lifting slings to choose from including webbing slings, wire rope slings, and chain slings.

Looking at the properties of a lifting sling will help you determine what kind of sling to purchase.

Wire Rope Slings –

How to Select the Right Sling

Also called wire cable slings, the most common and lowest cost per ton of lift of all slings. Wire rope slings are known for their strength, ability to bend without distortion, and to withstand abrasive wear and abuse. They can be used and will last longer than nylon ones, and are recommended to used when there is a concern in regards to heat and higher temperatures.

How to Select the Right Sling

6×19 class is most widely used due to a good combination of flexibility and wear resistance,

6×37 class is used primarily in larger diameter wire rope; large number of strands per wire make it more flexible but lessens resistance to abrasion,

7x7x7 class utilize ultra-flexible and corrosion-resistant galvanized aircraft cables.

Chain Slings –

How to Select the Right Sling

Chain slings can be used to lift heavier loads. They Often used in high temperature or under adverse conditions that would normally destroy or wear other types of slings.

Chain slings can have one to four legs connected to a master link and can be fabricated with adjustable reach. Multi-leg slings can be quicker and easier to rig than single leg slings. A four legged chain sling has the same rating as a three legged sling due to the difficulty in evenly balancing the load among all four-legs.

Due to their superior strength and durability, chain slings are typically used in foundries, steel mills, and heavy machine shops which require repetitive lifts, often under harsh conditions. They can be inspected, repaired, proof tested and recertified.

Web Slings –

How to Select the Right Sling

A good choice where highly finished parts or delicate equipment must be protected from damage. Their stretch and flexibility help them mold to the shape of the load, gripping securely while cushioning and absorbing shock far better than wire rope or chain. Another important advantage is that they can stretch and can elongate without breaking.

How to Select the Right Sling

However, one big disadvantage is that they can be easily damaged due to sharp edges and corners and they cannot withstand heat over 194 degrees. They are normally made out of polyester or nylon, but both should be stored carefully and avoiding having them stored under the sun.

Metal Mesh Slings –

How to Select the Right Sling

Also referred to as wire mesh slings are the preferred option when the object being lifted could cut wire rope slings. They grip the load firmly, resist corroding, stretching, kinking or tangling, and can withstand temperatures up to 550°F. Mesh slings enhance load balancing due to their ability to conform to irregular shapes and their wide load-bearing surface.

Metal mesh is also used on hot or abrasive objects. Many pre-fab or pre-stressed concrete manufacturers tend to use these types of slings to control and handle the objects efficiently. Wire mesh slings will firmly grip the load and will create tight chokes preventing the load from slipping while maintaining balanced loads. It is best when the metal sling has not been painted, in the case that they are being used in high-temperature environments.

Wire rope sling – is the most common and lowest cost per ton of lift of all slings. They are also very flexible which prevents them from locking up on a load.

Chain slings – can be used to lift heavier loads. Chain slings can be more expensive than the other slings but their strength is second to none.

Web Slings – flexibility help them mold to the shape of the load while cushioning and absorbing shock far better than wire rope or chain. But they can be easily damaged and cannot withstand heat over 194 degrees.

Metal Mesh Slings – enhance load balancing due to their ability to conform to irregular shapes and their wide load-bearing surface. They can be used in high-temperature environments.

If you are unsure about which sling you need, just e-mail our specialists at sales@lg-lifting.com for assistance, and we will gladly assist you.

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