Hoisting, lifting, and rigging are critical aspects of many construction and manufacturing processes and are necessary for accomplishing projects.These projects require the use of slings to lift and move heavy loads safely and efficiently.
There are three types of slings commonly used for hoisting, lifting, and rigging: wire rope slings, chain slings, and synthetic web slings. Each sling possesses unique properties that offer different functions for different applications.
Wire rope slings are made of steel cables wrapped together in a spiral or helix pattern. They are strong and durable slings best suited for heavy-duty lifting. Wire rope slings are resistant to wear and tear and can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for use in harsh environments.
Wire rope slings are available in different configurations, including single-part, multi-part, and braided. Single-part wire rope slings consist of a single length of wire rope with an eye loop at each end. Multi-part wire rope slings are made up of several lengths of wire rope that are braided together to form a more flexible sling. Braided wire rope slings are the most flexible and are more resistant to kinking than single-part slings.
Chain slings are made of steel chains and are ideal for lifting and rigging in harsh conditions. They are also resistant to wear and tear and can withstand high temperatures, which are good for outdoor and industrial settings.
Chain slings also come in various configurations such as single-leg, double-leg, and multi-leg. Single-leg chain slings have a single length of chain with a hook at one end and a chain link at the other end. Double-leg and multi-leg chain slings are made up of two or more lengths of chain that are connected to a master link or a lifting hook.
Synthetic web slings are made of either nylon or polyester webbing and are the lightest and most flexible of the three slings. They are used for lifting and rigging delicate loads, such as electronic equipment, because they are less likely to damage the load's surface.
These synthetic web slings are available in different configurations, including infinite loop, eye and eye, and reverse eye. Infinite loop slings are made from a continuous loop of webbing and are good for lifting cylindrical objects. Eye and eye slings are made from a length of webbing with an eye loop at each end. Reverse eye slings are made from a length of webbing with the eyes turned in opposite directions.
The choice of sling to use depends on the type of load being lifted, the lifting environment, and the lifting capacity required. Each sling is made with specific properties for different functions.
Wire rope slings are best suited for heavy-duty lifting, such as lifting steel beams and concrete blocks. They are made to be used in harsh environments, such as construction sites and industrial settings.
Chain slings are great for lifting heavy loads in outdoor and industrial settings. They are ideal to use in harsh environments and can withstand high temperatures.
Synthetic web slings are best suited for lifting delicate loads, such as electronic equipment, and for use in clean environments. They are also lightweight and flexible, making them the best choice for lifting irregularly shaped loads.
Wire rope slings, chain slings, and synthetic web slings are essential tools for hoisting, lifting, and rigging in various industries. Each sling has unique properties that make them suitable for every job. Your choice of sling all boils down to the type of load being lifted, the lifting environment, and the required lifting capacity.
Southeast Rigging has a wide range of hoisting, lifting, and rigging slings that are designed and made with the finest-quality materials that ensure the safety of workers and successful completion of projects. Browse our full catalog now and know more details about our synthetic web slings here.