6 Factors to Consider When Choosing Chain Lifting Slings

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is a vital entity in the United States that enhances workplace safety nationwide. If you run a manufacturing firm, compliance with OSHA standards is crucial to avoid legal issues and ensure the protection of your employees from injuries, particularly those caused by falls.

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Since 1971, various fall protection measures have been in place to uphold workplace safety. To mitigate falls and related risks, employing the correct types of lifting slings in operations is necessary. With numerous lifting slings available, selecting the right chain sling can be challenging. Below are essential considerations for purchasing chain slings for your company.

1. Weight and Strength of the Load

When evaluating different lifting slings, always consider the weight and sturdiness of the load. Loads that are not adequately supported can fall and cause significant damage. Strong rigging is essential for heavy loads, providing support from all sides to prevent falls and protect workers from potential injuries.

2. Sling Flexibility

Alloy chain slings are known for their flexibility under heavy weights, which is an advantage in adjusting the load's center of gravity. This flexibility helps maintain balance and minimize the risk of the load leaning dangerously to one side, creating a safer work environment.

3. Temperature Limits

Temperature tolerance is a critical factor when choosing lifting slings. Slings must withstand up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit; anything beyond can cause catastrophic failure. Ensure the chain slings you select for lifting machinery and equipment in extreme conditions can endure high temperatures without compromising integrity.

4. Sling Ratings

Slings come with industrial ratings indicating their usage conditions, such as temperature, load capacity, and attachment methods. Choose chain slings that meet the required sling ratings for your specific needs to ensure safety and operational efficiency.

5. Wear and Tear Resistance

Chain slings endure substantial wear from heavy lifting. Opt for slings built to resist fatigue and not crack under pressure. Durable slings ensure longevity and reliable performance over the years, making them a worthwhile investment for your operations.

6. Lifting Points

Before purchasing, verify that the chosen sling has appropriate lifting points compatible with your loads. Proper attachment mechanisms are vital to ensure the secure handling of heavy weights, preventing drops and enhancing safety.

With various types of lifting slings available, conducting thorough research and analysis of your needs will help you identify the most suitable lifting equipment for your requirements.

Is your company often needing to replace lifting slings? Seeking a durable alternative to synthetic slings? Alloy steel chain slings might be the solution, offering enhanced safety and efficiency in your lifting operations.

While you might be considering alloy steel chain slings, understanding how to order new or replacement slings can be confusing. Having been in the rigging business since 1954, Mazzella can help clarify this process. This guide will assist you in selecting the correct slings for your applications.

In this guide, you'll find answers to these questions:

• What are the types of alloy steel chain sling configurations?
• How do you measure alloy steel chain sling length?
• What do you need to know before ordering alloy steel chain slings?
• Which types of hardware can be used on an alloy steel chain sling?
• How do you adjust an alloy steel chain sling?

What Are the Types of Alloy Steel Chain Sling Configurations?

Single-Leg Chain Slings

Single-leg slings can have either a hook or collector ring as the upper end fitting. Examples include:

#1 SJG Chain Sling

S – Single-leg

J – Upper end fitting is a j-hook

G – Lower end fitting is a grab hook

#2 SOG Chain Sling

S – Single-leg

O – Upper end fitting is an oblong master link

G – Lower end fitting is a grab hook

#3 SSG Chain Sling

S – Single-leg

S – Upper end fitting is a sling hook (hook with a metal clasp latch)

G – Lower end fitting is a grab hook (grab back into a link of chain)

Double-Leg Chain Slings

Double-leg chain slings typically have a collector ring at the top. Examples include:

#1 DOS Chain Sling

D – Double-leg

O – Collector ring is an oblong master link

S – Lower end fittings are sling hooks

#2 DOG Chain Sling

D – Double-leg

O – Collector ring is an oblong master link

G – Lower end fittings are grab hooks

Triple-Leg and Quad-Leg Chain Slings

Triple-leg and quad-leg chain slings also feature a collector ring. Examples include:

#1 TOS Chain Sling

T – Triple-leg

O – Collector ring is an oblong master link

S – Lower end fittings are sling hooks

#2 QOS Chain Sling

Q – Quad-leg

O – Collector ring is an oblong master link

S – Lower end fittings are sling hooks

Chain Sling Assemblies with Adjusters

Assemblies may include shorteners, usually grab hooks. Examples include:

#1 DOSA

D – Double-leg

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O – Collector ring is an oblong master link

S – Lower end fittings are sling hooks

A – Shorteners are present less than 2" from the collector ring

#2 DOSB

D – Double-leg

O – Collector ring is an oblong master link

S – Lower end fittings are sling hooks

B – Shorteners are present on a length of chain more than 2" from the collector ring

What Grades of Chain Are Recommended for Lifting and Rigging Applications?

Several factors influence the choice of the best alloy steel chain sling for your needs:

• Size
• Grade
• Number of legs
• Length
• Hardware used within the sling

Grades of Chain

Only three chain grades are typically accepted for overhead lifts:

• Grade 80
• Grade 100
• Grade 120

Chains below Grade 80, such as Grade 70, are used for transport and general purposes but not for overhead lifting. While Grade 120 chains exist, they are less common. Most rigging shops stock Grade 80 and Grade 100 chains.

Note: Grade 63 chain, a stainless steel variant, is required for food-grade and certain chemical applications.

Sling Length

Sling length is measured from the top bearing point of one end to the other. For multi-leg slings, this includes measuring from the master link's top to the hook’s bearing point.

Hardware Fittings

Alloy steel chain slings differ from synthetic and wire rope slings by having end fittings instead of eyes. For instance, single-leg slings might include a master link and grab hook, allowing the user to create their own eye.

Our experts, like those at Mazzella, often see customers handling utility poles. By wrapping and tightening the sling around the pole, they create a secure connection.

What Should You Know Before Purchasing Alloy Steel Chain Slings?

A rigger is someone who selects the appropriate equipment to support or manipulate a load. When choosing or replacing an alloy chain sling, consider durability, adjustability, load weight, the number of legs, and lifting points. Whether using single or multi-leg slings, ensure the master link fits the crane hook correctly.

Example: A load weighing 3,000 lbs. lifted with a 15-ton crane hook requires a larger master link for safe and correct sling assembly.

What Types of Hardware Could Be Used on an Alloy Steel Chain Sling?

Typically, alloy steel chain slings feature a standard hook with a metal clasp latch or a grab hook. Other attachments might include:

• J-hooks
• Foundry hooks

Foundry hooks, known for their swooping throat, do not have latches. Verify local standards before using foundry hooks, as regulations vary. For example, Maryland prohibits them, whereas Ohio does not.

J-hooks also lack latches but can be attached to master links or D rings on both ends of the slings.

How Do You Adjust an Alloy Steel Chain Sling?

To adjust alloy steel chain slings, use grab hooks to shorten the sling legs. A master link at the top allows grab hooks to attach and insert into chain links, effectively shortening the legs and shifting the stress to the master link.

Is It Better to Use Mechanical or Welded Chain Slings?

Mechanical chain slings connect chains to hardware via hammer locks or clevis pins, being less expensive but posing specific risks. Welded slings, favored in industrial settings, require a cooling and heat-treatment process, adding to the cost.

Are Alloy Steel Chain Slings the Right Solution For You?

Alloy steel chain slings, known for their strength and durability, might be your best bet. Key considerations when ordering include:

• Working Load Limit
• Number of legs (single or multi-leg assemblies)
• Sling configuration
• Sling length
• Ways to protect slings and loads

If alloy steel chain slings don't fit your needs, Mazzella offers extensive resources on various sling types.

Mazzella provides comprehensive lifting solutions, including different styles of slings, rigging hardware, wire ropes, overhead cranes, hoists, and engineered lifting devices. With over 30 locations across the U.S., they can meet your rigging needs.

Call 800.362.4601 or contact a lifting specialist to learn more or purchase new slings.

Lifting Slings & Assemblies

Looking for lifting slings, ranging from chain, wire rope, synthetic flat web, metal mesh, cordage, to single-path/high-performance round slings? Mazzella can provide the right sling for your project needs.

They can also manufacture large and small sling assemblies, including bridge, crane, steel mill cables, and numerous OEM assemblies.

Contact us today to get the lifting slings and assemblies you need!

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