Lifting chains are commonly used in a variety of heavy lifting applications. For normal duty lifting there is grade eight chain and for heavier duty frequent high capacity lifting with fewer legs required there is grade 10.
When choosing chain slings one will need firstly take in to account the effective working length of the sling; this is the distance from the master link to the end fitting (usually a hook) this standardly is two meters but can be as long as required. Secondly the buyer will need to know the number of legs required; this is the number of chain lengths required from the master link, up to four legs to lift from up to four lifting points. The full capacity of each sling can only be safely reached if all intended legs are in use when lifting.
Chain slings can be used in a variety of different methods when slinging such as a straight lift, choking lift or basket position.
The higher grade of sling the stronger the chain, this means bigger and heavier. For example let’s say you had a ten tonne load with only one lifting point, you need to perform a straight lift but your grade 8 slings are only available up to 9.81 tonnes with one leg. Step this up to grade 10 and you are able to lift much more than 10 tonnes with one leg of chain. The only downside to grade ten is the extra weight and cost.
The decision on how to choose your chain slings should always be based upon what is safe and relevant to the load in discussion, always take the necessary safety precautions and complete the required risk assessments before making any heavy lift.