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Do you regularly use slings to operate on your worksite?
If yes, then this article is for you.
Slings are a below-the-hook (BTH) device commonly used in industrial lifting.
Its usage is essential to the seamless workflow of heavy moving or transporting.
Because of that, we cannot ignore the importance of getting to know about it better.
Here, we’ll break down the advantages and disadvantages of slings, which you should know to optimize your sling usage.
The Twists and Turns of Slings Usage in Industries
As you’re already familiar with heavy goods lifting, you probably know that the advantages and disadvantages of slings must be balanced with the challenges and complexities in the field.
You should consider several things to decide the most suitable slings for your workplace.
1. Varieties of Loads
Finding a sling that can be used for any load is almost impossible.
Typically, when using slings, we need to consider the varieties of the loads before choosing the suitable ones.
These varieties include the goods’ size, weight, shapes, and fragilities.
This is what determines the unique sling demands of each industry.
For example, you cannot lift a giant sculpture and drilling machine using the same sling.
Besides the weight that might be different, they also have different fragilities that require different handling methods.
Synthetic slings could be the best option for lifting a giant sculpture since they have a non-sharp surface and are flexible.
Meanwhile, a chain sling could perhaps help lift drilling machines, which are typically extremely heavy and contaminated with oil.
2. The Environment Challenges
Another thing to consider before you weigh the advantages and disadvantages of slings is the environmental challenges.
An extreme environment may cause synthetic slings’ quality to decrease significantly or even break after several times use.
You should know your working environment to understand which slings can work under such conditions.
If your working environment is relatively extreme, such as high temperatures, close to corrosive substances, or requires contact with abrasive chemicals, you should consider wire rope or chain slings instead of textile slings.
3. The Lifting Methods
Again, talking about the unique demand of industrial lifting typically includes different lifting method requirements.
Many factors cause this; it can be from the loads themselves that are too big or too heavy.
On the other hand, it can also be caused by the lifting equipment, the available space in the field, or the layout settings.
These all can influence the lifting methods, which probably cannot always be straightforward, but maybe vertical lift or choker hitches configurations can be used.
Different lifting methods can also affect the slings that should be used.
Therefore, configurations also play a role in determining the most suitable types of slings.
What are The Advantages and Disadvantages of Slings?
1. Chain Slings
Chain slings, also known as toughest slings, offer main benefits, primarily in the context of strength and durability.
However, being strong can also be a disadvantage.
Advantages of Chain Slings
- Highly resistant to harsh working conditions
- Repairable chain links can be adjusted to suit lifting needs
- It can be used in extreme temperature conditions (-40 °F to 400 °F) without affecting its lifting capacity
Disadvantages of Chain Slings
- It is easy to damage the surface of the load
- The relatively most expensive sling
- The larger the load capacity, the heavier it is
2. Wire Rope Slings
This type of sling is often a middle option for a sling that is strong in extreme environments but also flexible.
Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of slings:
Advantages of Wire Rope Slings
- It has a complex woven structure, so it is not easily broken
- Not easily damaged by abrasive substances
- Lighter than chain slings and can be flexibly bent
Disadvantages of Wire Rope Slings
- Its complex structure is potentially dangerous, making inspection difficult
- Cannot withstand extreme environmental conditions (-40°F to 400°F)
- Requires maintenance with proper lubricants as specified by the manufacturer
3. Textile Slings
Textile slings are quite commonly praised in various sectors as the lightest industrial lifting slings.
However, some of its characteristics do not make this sling usable in various conditions.
Advantages of Textile Slings
- The material does not damage the surface of the load
- Very flexible, can adjust the shape of the load
- It can be used in various configurations and lifting methods
Disadvantages of Textile Slings
- Has low resistance to heat temperatures
- The carrying capacity is affected by scratches, humidity, and abrasiveness
- It cannot be repaired; if there is damage, it must be replaced immediately
Whatever your choice, the slings you use to lift your loads should always consider three important points: the variety of loads, the weight distribution, and the usage frequency.
By considering these three factors, you’ll know the most suitable slings to help you do your work more effectively and efficiently.
Sebatek: No. 1 Solution of The Best Quality Synthetic Slings!
If you’re looking for the right place to buy the best synthetic slings, Sebatek is the answer.
As part of the Elhifa Group, a pioneer in synthetic lifting equipment design and production, we’ve been trusted by many companies across industries to support their safety needs.
Our slings products meet national and international safety standards, including ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 certifications, the CE certificate from the European Union, and WSTDA USA membership.