What You Need to Know When Buying Chain Lifting Slings

With the importance of the details of sling choice in the front of our minds, let’s consider some of the most important information you’ll need to have on hand when you go into the buying process. With organization and preparation, buying new chain lifting slings can be remarkably easy.

First off, it’s important to know the weight of the loads you’ll be lifting. Load weight is going to be the primary determiner in what type of sling you go with. Everything from single-chain slings to four-leg slings has a different maximum load weight that needs to be strictly adhered to. Do not make rough assumptions when dealing with weight, and never try to lift something heavier than a chain’s maximum load weight rating.

Second, the shape of the loads you’ll be lifting will be important to know. Some loads may be light enough to be lifted by a single-chain sling but might be shaped such that a single-chain sling would not properly balance the load. Load balance can not only affect the functional weight of the load being lifted but can also affect whether the load will actually lift without swinging or turning (both of which are dangerous and should be avoided.)

For oddly-shaped loads, it’s often best to go with a multi-leg chain, which will allow for adjustments of the legs to compensate for the shape of the load. Regularly shaped loads, like concrete blocks or crates, can often be lifted with more simplistic chain arrangements

You’ll also need to know what kind of environment you’ll be using your chain lifting slings in. While work environment is the least likely to have an effect on your choice in sling, there are certain environmental conditions that could become serious hazards. Specifically, extreme temperature and saltwater conditions can become very problematic for chain slings and, as a result, may demand coated or specialty chains.

Extreme temperatures can cause expansion or contraction of chains which can shorten their lifespan or lead to more immediate damage. Saltwater is corrosive and can quickly eat through many metals, leading to unsafe lifting conditions. Because of these characteristics, each of the environmental conditions mentioned above should be considered well in advance of a purchase.

The last thing to consider before you buy is preference in brand. This factor mostly applies to those who are replacing old chains, but it could also be that some first-time buyers may benefit from brand research. When buying new slings, it’s important to go with a brand that you trust and that has a track record of good performance. When it comes to heavy machinery, there is no room for cut corners. Always spend some time researching the available brands, and be sure to choose one that fits your needs, corporate culture, and company ethics.

If you think you’re ready to begin the buying process, we can help make it a lot easier. Here at empirerigging.com, our professional staff can walk you through our expansive selection of quality, American-made products. Come see us today!