If you own lifting equipment, a chain sling is one of its essential parts. However, with time, they go through wear and tear. During those times, you have to consider buying a new one. Before buying, there are certain things that you have to perceive.
You should fathom which kind of sling you need- A mechanical (forged) chain sling or a welded chain sling. Before making your choice, you should go through their purposes and other things. It will give you a clearer idea about your requirement.
Here, we will conduct a comparative study between these two types of chain slings. We assure you that you can make your decision precisely once you go through our study. Here is everything that you need to know.
Welded Chain Slings
What is a welded chain sling?
In a welded chain sling, both sides of the chains come with welded attachments. After getting attached, the manufacturers provide heat treatment to them. If you look at the chain sling assembly, you will find out that they have permanent attachment.
Benefits of welded chain slings
Mechanical chain slings have numerous benefits to offer. The reasons for buying this chain sling are:
- You don’t have to worry about any wearing of mechanical components.
- These slings are durable as well as long-lasting. Once you purchase them, they will provide you with long-term service. It will be a good investment.
- Modifications are challenging in this type of chain slings. An employee cannot modify it whenever he or she wants. It will save you from various accidents.
- They are reliable. Manufacturing companies try and test them before sending them to the market. They test both components and slings.
What are the disadvantages of welded chain slings?
Apart from the advantages, you may have to experience some disadvantages as well. There are some issues that you may have to follow while manufacturing and using mechanical chain slings, such as:
- You will need a large amount of equipment to make it. Plus, you will need experienced and trained welders. So, it may cost you a significant amount of money.
- If some damage happens to this sling, it will take a lot of time to repair. The reason is the lengthy heat process.
Inspection
If a welded sling gets broken or damaged, you should get in touch with a certified manufacturer. They are the best people to help you in this section.
Mechanical (Forged) Chain Slings
What is the definition of mechanical chain sling?
Mechanical chain slings come with pins. A welded chain is connected to a welded chain. The pins are responsible for keeping the slings in place. You can also remove the mechanical components easily. The best part is it is compatible with other hooks as well as other devices. It can be a game-changer during emergencies.
What are the advantages of mechanical chain slings?
Mechanical chain slings come with multiple perks. Here, we will try to take a look at those benefits so that you can make the right choice.
Pros
- It is less expensive compared to welded chain slings. You don’t have to worry about any pressure in your pocket.
- If you are qualified personnel, you can modify the mechanical components. According to your necessity, you can customize it.
- If you witness any faults, you can repair them quickly. You don’t have to spend much time repairing it.
- It is a durable machine. You can use them for a long time too. However, you have to make sure that you are using it in the right way.
Cons
- Compared to welded chain slings, it may wear and tear faster.
- People can make adjustments on sites, and that is both a pro and con. If you take the liability of adjustment and some unwanted situations occur, you will be in a bad light. Besides, when an unskilled worker tries to adjust the mechanical component.
- They are not proof tested. Your company has to invest in proof testing.
Inspection
If you find any damage in your mechanical chain sling, you don't have to change the entire sling, but you can just remove and change the damaged part.
Durability
Now, durability is something that is the same in the case of both the chain slings. They comprise the same working load limit if they have equal configurations and specifications. Plus, their performance will be identical during extreme temperatures.
Cost Difference
Both mechanical and welded sling assemblies have nothing to do with cost. If you purchase slings with equal capacity and configuration, the price will be somewhat the same. Some factors may influence the price, such as:
- Diameter of the chain
- Length of the chain.
- Grade of the chain.
- The capacity of the chains.
- Specialized fittings such as links, hooks, rings, and other things.
Now, we will suggest you go through this article meticulously. It will clear your several doubts. We observed numerous things while analyzing these chain slings. For example, we perceived the advantages and disadvantages of both the slings. Besides, they both need inspection and repair if any damage happens to them. You will get an idea about their cost too.
So, gather these pieces of knowledge. They will help make the right choice. Try to understand your company’s specific needs and buy the right one.
