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Synthetic Slings, Wire Slings or Chains? Choosing the Best Lifting Sling
The load is the main factor that goes into consideration. You first have to determine its weight, the forces on the load, where its centre of gravity is located, how fragile it is and how the lifting sling can be attached.
Environmental factors such as temperature must also be considered as these affect the integrity and performance of the sling. Wire rope slings with a metallic core, for example, may not operate properly below -40°C and above 204.44°C.
From there, you can look at the best types of slings to use with the configuration needed, terminal fittings and the condition where the slings will be used and stored.
Chain Slings
Chain slings are ideal for heavy-duty loads on a regular or repetitive basis. With their composition and design, chain slings withstand extreme temperatures making them ideal for steel mills, foundries and heavy machine shops.
Identify the size of the chain or the maximum load to be lifted, the length of the legs you require, the end fittings you need and if you require shorteners.
Wire Rope Slings
Offering strength, flexibility as well as fatigue and abrasion resistance, wire rope slings are popular in the automotive, construction and oil and gas. With braided designs, they quickly regain their original shape after a lift.
The difficulty with wire rope slings is its abuse will result in early failure; when ordering the wire rope sling you require, choose one with a rating that's slightly higher than the heaviest load you expect to carry.
Synthetic Slings
Made from nylon or polyester, synthetic slings are soft and ideal for lifting delicate equipment or highly-finished parts. This is most true for synthetic round slings that have a woven outer jacket, protecting loads with a polished surface from scratches, dents and crushing. Among all slings, the flat sling is the most affordable. It's the the most versatile and widely used, boasting comparable strength and ease of use.
If you decide on buying a synthetic sling, consider if you need round or flat ones and if a protective sleeve is needed as there might be loads with sharp angles. Also, determine how many slings you require, the length/s you need and if you need additional fittings such as shackles lifting points.
If you need more information or advice on the best sling for your application, our friendly team will gladly help. Give us a bit of overview about your operations and we’ll guide you through the specification process.
Let Us Know What You Need and Get it the Next Day
Timberfix is a family business of third-generation builders. Understanding our clients’ need for quality products and fast reliable service, we carry large stocks of fasteners, hardware, and site supplies always ready for despatch. So, whether you need synthetic slings or stainless screws, simply place your order before 4:30 pm and you’ll receive your purchase the very next day from our trained internal carriers.