It is a common phenomenon that whenever you are trying to plan your next lifting project, you may get confused about the kind of sling that you require to use. Out of the wire rope slings, web slings, and the chain sling, which one would work efficiently is the big question. To your surprise, one can use all of these to efficiently and safely move lifts or position your load.
However, choosing the correct one depends on certain factors, including the environment of the application and the application itself. To have the most balanced lift, you need to know certain things about the procedure. These include:
- Centre of gravity
- Weight of the load
- Number of attachment points
- Reach
- Hitch type
- Clearance of any height restrictions
- The geometry of the lift
- Ambient conditions
- Lower fitting and upper fitting requirements.
This article aims to provide the reader with the difference between wire rope sling, web sling, and chain sling. Without further ado, let us start with the difference.
Wire rope slings
Wire rope slings come with a unique design consisting of multiple steel wires. These wires, however, stay in a spiral pattern around the steel or fibre core. It provides flexibility, strength, and the ability to handle any stress related to bending.
In every automobile construction, general manufacturing, and oil and gas industry, you will see the use of wire rope sling. These kinds of slings are also popular among the forging facilities and steel mills where the user puts to test the durability of the wire rope.
Various configurations of the wire, strong structure, and material provide multiple benefits for applying a particular kind of lifting. It includes resistance, including fatigue resistance, flexibility, abrasion, and strength. The initial cost of the wire rope slings is somehow lower.
Advantages of wire rope slings
- Lighter in weight than other chain slings
- Initially lower in cost
- Highly flexible
- Smaller diameter design
- High strength
- The construction and design provide fatigue resistance, abrasion resistance, corrosion resistance, strength, and flexibility.
- Used in basket hitches and choker
- Braided slings regain originality in shape after lift
Disadvantages of wire rope slings
- Lower weight to strength ratio
- Construction and design makes it challenging to inspect the core area
- Abuse or misuse causes crushing, abrasion, or kinking.
- Results in loss of strength and structural damage
- One cannot repair it
- Susceptible to external and internal corruption
- Can be used at temperatures ranging from -40 degree Fahrenheit to above 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Alloy chain slings
Alloy chain slings are known for their dependability and toughness. The chain wires are known to be the bulldog of lifting slings. Chain slings lift bulky and heavy loads on a repetitive or regular basis. The design provides durability and strength. Due to that, they can withstand extreme temperature, high impact, and exposure to UV rays and chemicals. The strength also allows one to use it in different industries, including heavy machine shops, steel mills, and foundries.
If, in any case, there is an occurrence of damages, then you can repair them completely. One can recertify the alloy chains and load tests them after the repair.
The alloy chain slings can take up the heat of 1000 degree Fahrenheit. But according to the manufacturer's recommendation, one should expose it not over 400 degree Fahrenheit. Read more to know about The Science Behind Load Taking Of Chain Slings?
Advantages of alloy chain slings
- Flexible design, durable and higher strength
- Completely repairable
- Most accessible to proof test, recertify and inspect
- Used at high temperature
- Resistance to UV exposure, chemicals, and corrosion
- It does not get affected by grease, oil, and dirt
Disadvantages of alloy chain slings
- Very heavy
- Expensive than any other kind of rope
- Can damage sensitive parts
Web slings
Web slings can be used for delicate equipment that requires strength and ability and support. These things come from polyester or nylon material that is easy to rig and lightweight. Web slings are popular in general industries and construction units. They are inexpensive and come in various sizes.
Non-conductive and non-sparkling fibres make up the synthetic web slings. Due to this reason, you can use them in explosive atmospheres. However, these slings are prone to abrasions, tears, and cuts. Also, exposure to chemicals and heat may weaken or damage the integrity and strength of the sling.
Advantages of web slings
- The lightweight and inexpensive design make them attractive for any industry.
- Made of flexible and soft material that can perfectly grip the irregular loads
- Strong enough for lifting heavy loads
- Protects delicate and expensive loads from crashing and scratching
Disadvantages of web slings
- Not that durable as compared to its competitors
- Cutting protection sleeve increases the cost
- Susceptible to exposure to sunlight
Conclusion
When it comes to lifting slings, you can have a diverse choice. Also, there are factors that one needs to consider to get maximum reliable lifts while maintaining safety. These factors are
- Rated capacity and strength of the sling
- The flexibility of the sling
- Resistance to any cuts, tears, and abrasion
- Resistance to extreme heat
- Ease of inspection
- Weight of the sling
- Ability to be proof tested and repaired
You may find several companies suggesting either of these slings, but make sure that you choose one after you understand the difference of each kind well. In case you need assistance to select the best slings for your application, feel free to contact LOADMATE Team any time.
