Hoisting slings: what they are, types, applications

Slings are designed to capture and move cargo, so they are made of strong ropes, chains or ropes. They are attached by loops or hooks, and differ in material and the number of branches. Their load capacity and method of securing depend on these characteristics.

Types of slings by material

What the branches of the slings are made of determines their load capacity and in what conditions and for what tasks they can be used. Types of sling material:

• Rope is made of synthetic, hemp or steel fiber. It consists of a weave of wires or fibers of equal diameter. Steel wire rope slings are the strongest. However, they are heavy and stiff, require lubrication, and are prone to corrosion.
• The chain consists of steel links welded together. It is strong and flexible. The chain is used in corrosive environments and can be repaired. It weighs a lot and is not suitable for moving delicate loads.
• Textile slings are made of polyester material. It can come in contact with seawater, most acids and oil. Textile slings are flexible, suitable for delicate cargo, lightweight and the most compact when folded. They should not be used near open flames.

Loads with sharp edges can cut through textile or rope branches. Slings should be regularly inspected for damage and repaired to avoid breaking when moving cargo.

Types of Sling by Number of Branches

All material slings come in different numbers of strands. It is possible to choose a fixation that is suitable for loads of different sizes and shapes.

Types of steel wire rope slings:

• Slings with one branch with a hook.
• Slings with two or three branches attached to one link.
• Four ties are used to lift bulky loads that need to be fixed in several places.
• Sling with six ties and equalizing blocks can hold up to 8 tons. Capable of securing heavy reinforced concrete slabs.

Types of chain slings:

• Sling with one branch with a hook for lightweight small loads.
• Two branches of the sling gives a higher load-carrying capacity.
• Four chain slings for handling bulky loads.
• Ring sling - 1 chain closed in a ring.

Types of textile slings:

• Ribbon slings come with one or more branches, loops or rings.
• Round-strand spanset slings are a strong bundle of parallel strands covered with a soft cover. Designed for heavy loads requiring delicate handling.

Use of slings

Slings are used in all areas of activity where you need to move loads. They are needed in construction, forestry, oil and gas industry, agriculture, in cargo transportation.

Band slings girdle the load and secure it to the lifting device. Multi-branch crane slings are hooked to the load at specific points. On the other side, the load is attached to a ring on the crane.

When installing slings, it is necessary to follow the fixing rules designed for different types, sizes and shapes of loads. It is therefore advisable to consult an expert or to study carefully the technique of correct attachment of slings.

When selecting slings, pay attention to the marking, which indicates the number of branches, material, length, load capacity, test date, etc. The slings are selected according to the type and dimensions of the load.