Lifting Slings
Lifting slings are a great way to transport loads, especially those that are too heavy or awkward to move easily. However, they should be used with caution.
Consider a mobility evaluation before choosing a lifting sling. This will ensure that the sling meets your patient’s unique needs during transfer.
Several factors influence the durability of a lifting sling, including its use and storage conditions.
Wire rope
A wire rope is an excellent choice for lifting slings as it is strong and flexible. It is also resistant to abrasion and lifting slings can be used in extreme conditions. However, it is important to know that wire rope slings must be properly inspected and maintained before they are put into service. This will help avoid unnecessary damage and ensure that they are in good working condition.
The construction industry relies on these slings to lift large and heavy objects on a regular basis. They are also needed to load and offload supply vehicles, lift materials to higher floors of prefabricated buildings, and for a variety of other purposes. Another important industry that requires specialized slings is manufacturing. These slings can be used to lift finished products, machinery, and equipment to and from transport vehicles or to the warehouse.
Wire rope slings are available in various sizes and capacities, depending on the size of the load. They are also rated for specific applications, such as choker, basket, or vertical hitches. They are made up of multiple strands and can be made from a wide range of materials, such as nylon or polyester. They are also available with a variety of end fittings, such as re-enforced eyes, sling hooks, self-locking hooks, and shackles.
To create the proper eye size, a wire rope sling must be unwound to the number of lays required for its configuration. The sleeve must then be cut to the appropriate length and the spliced together using the correct splicing technique. It is also important to note that a sling should never be exposed to temperatures exceeding 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Exposure to these temperatures can cause heat damage, which will affect the steel core and sleeve. It can also dry out the lubricant between the wire strands and core, which will reduce the sling’s flexibility.
Synthetic material
The best lifting sling is made from high-performance synthetic material that’s durable enough to handle heavy and bulky loads. It can also withstand extreme conditions, such as chemical exposure or extreme temperatures. These slings are available in various types of fiber, so you can choose one that fits your needs. However, these slings may be more susceptible to cutting and abrasion than their steel counterparts, so they should not be used in sharp-edged applications. Before using a synthetic sling, it’s important to visually inspect them for damage. Damaged slings can lead to injuries or even expensive equipment damage. If the slings are damaged, it’s important to discard them.
A chain sling is a great option for industrial applications, but it can also be dangerous if not used properly. For example, if the slings are not correctly positioned, they can be crushed by the load and may fail to perform their intended function. To avoid this, use a choker hitch to secure the load in place, and make sure that the sling is positioned over the most important point of contact.
Nylon and polyester lifting slings offer flexibility and strength and can be used in choker or basket hitches. They can also be used in overhead applications and are easy to maneuver. They can be used on a wide range of objects, including pylons and telegraph poles. They’re perfect for transporting and securing materials on construction sites.
Soft material
Choosing the right lifting sling is vital for safe and efficient operations. It’s important to consider the weight and fragility of the load, as well as how often it will be used. Determining the center of gravity is also essential. If the load isn’t properly centered, it may swing off-balance and crash into people or property.
Various types of lifting slings are available in different styles, widths and plies. Nylon lifting straps lifting slings are a popular choice due to their low stretch and good abrasion resistance. They come in a variety of lengths and are available with eye fittings on both ends to hook onto a crane or other device. Another option is a ‘roundsling’, which is manufactured as one continuous loop of material. These slings have an eye on each end to attach to a lifting hook and are ideal for loads that don’t have their own fastening points.
Wire rope is made from a bundle of individual steel wires woven together into a strand and wound in a pattern. It’s a tougher material than nylon and can handle high temperatures, but it doesn’t have the same flexibility as synthetic material. It’s also more expensive than other sling materials.
Round slings
The round sling is a versatile piece of lifting equipment that can be used in a variety of applications. It’s made from a continuous loop of polyester that is wrapped around the load. It is easy to use and offers good protection from damage during a lift. In addition, it has a lower stretch rate than web slings and is easier to handle.
Grainger offers endless polyester round slings in various sizes and capacities. They’re color-coded so you can easily recognize weight ratings and are designed to be durable in harsh environments. These slings are also resistant to ultraviolet light, grease, and most acids. Additionally, they have shifting wear points that prolong the lifespan of the sling.
Another option is the flat webbing sling, which provides a wider bearing surface than its counterpart. This sling can be used in a choker hitch to grip heavy loads. It also withstands heat and corrosion, making it the perfect choice for sensitive materials like tubes and pipes.
Riggers should be familiar with the different types of slings and how they behave under tension. They should also understand the type of hitch that is appropriate for each application. If the sling is attached incorrectly, it could cause damage to the load. To prevent this, riggers should be properly trained and certified.