Various industrial occupations require employees to lift heavy-duty equipment and supplies throughout the job site. However, these tasks can quickly become dangerous and time-consuming when done incorrectly.
Most workers rely on chain lifting slings to increase productivity and reduce the risk of injury. Here are some advantages chain slings have over synthetic slings.
What Are Rigging Lifting Slings?
Rigging lifting slings are often preferred for their durability, long lifespan, and versatility for heavy-duty applications. They are also made from various materials, including metal, synthetic fibers, wire rope, and metal mesh.
Rigging lifting slings provide numerous uses. It’s crucial that the user of a rigging lifting sling knows the center of gravity, weight, attachment points, sling angles, and more for successful lifting applications. These slings also benefit many industries, such as construction, automotive, and mining.
Differences Between Chain and Synthetic Slings
Workers should know about some considerable benefits chain slings have over synthetic slings. These differences give laborers a better idea of which option to choose for their lifting applications.
Chain Lifting Slings
Chain lifting slings provide dependability and toughness that little can compare to. They’re often used for heavy or bulky loads and repetitive lifting needs. They also have the strength and durability to protect against extreme temperatures, UV rays, impact, and chemical exposure.
Some benefits of chain lifting slings include easy inspection and proof-testing, minimal impact from dirt, oil, or grease, easy repairs through chain link or link segment replacements, resistance against corrosion, and high strength to hold up against harsh operating environments.
Synthetic Lifting Slings
Synthetic lifting slings are meant for handling finished loads or delicate equipment. They provide flexibility and strength and are often made from nylon or polyester for a lightweight, easy rig application. They have a handful of benefits, such as the power to handle heavy loads, easy tailoring, and budget-friendliness.
However, synthetic slings have some notable downsides. They don’t compare when it comes to heat resistance and shouldn’t be relied on for high-heat applications. They also don’t offer the same durability as steel slings in terms of abrasion and cut resistance. They’re better suited for highly fragile or expensive loads rather than repetitive, heavy-duty loads.
There are many advantages that make chain-lifting slings a clear winner over synthetic slings. While synthetic slings make for useful lifting tools, there’s no secret that chain slings come out on top.