The Importance of Lifting Slings
For construction projects and industrial operations, lifting slings are essential. They’re used for hoisting materials and offloading supplies from delivery trucks.
Slings should always be properly cared for and inspected before and after every lift. They should also be used according to OSHA guidelines. This includes knowing what a sling’s Working Load Limit, Breaking Strength and Safety Factor mean.
Round Slings
Often known as endless round slings, these high-strength synthetic slings are ideal for lifting and transferring heavy materials and machinery. They are incredibly durable and come in various different sizes with varying load capacities. This type of sling can be used with a variety of hoisting devices such as hooks and chains, making it a versatile choice for your workplace.
Round slings are made from internal load bearing fibres that are encased in a tubular single or double polyester cover. This outer layer shields the inner fibres from external threats such as abrasion, sharp edges, heat and moisture. The round sling cover is usually marked with a colour code that provides a visual indication of the rated capacity.
This allows users to easily identify the right sling for their job and ensure that it is able to meet the requirements of its application. When using a round sling, care should be taken to inspect it before each use. If it shows signs of wear and tear, such as abrasion or tearing, it should be removed from service and repaired as soon as possible. The sling should also be stored properly, avoiding exposure to sunlight or moisture. The sling should also be kept away from any sources of electricity and flammability. This can reduce the risk of injuries to workers operating machinery.
Flatslings
Webbing slings are a flexible, lightweight alternative to other types of lifting equipment. They have a wide bearing surface and are ideal for gripping irregular or odd-shaped loads. Webbing slings are also lifting slings less damaging on load surfaces than metal wire rope slings. They can be used in choker and vertical hitches, and some have a flat eye on one end for easy removal from limited spaces. These slings are made from synthetic materials like nylon and polyester. Nylon slings have a bit more stretch than polyester, which helps to minimize loading shock. They are a good choice for use in chemically active environments, and they resist degradation from elevated temperatures and prolonged exposure to UV.
Synthetic slings are also highly versatile and can be used in a variety of configurations. They can be used in vertical, choker, and basket hitches. They have a Design Factor of 5:1, which means the breaking strength is five times higher than the rated Working Load Limit. They are easily recognizable because they are tagged with a capacity marking on each end.
These markings are important for inspection, as they indicate the maximum number of cycles the sling can be used. This allows you to ensure that the sling is not overloaded during each operation. This is important because overloaded slings are dangerous and can lead to serious injuries or damage to the load.
Wire Rope Slings
Whether you’re working on a construction site, at an industrial plant or securing loads in a warehouse, wire rope slings are a useful tool for a variety of applications. They’re pliable, offer superior abrasion resistance and are great for heavy duty work such as crane rigging or overhead lifting. They’re also able to conform to the shape of a load for an even more secure application. They can be used in vertical, choker or basket hitches and are easy to inspect for snags and breaks.
When it comes to rigging a load, it’s important to know the center of gravity so that you can position the sling leg properly. In addition, you should be familiar with how slings are loaded to prevent any unwanted rotation which can damage the sling and cause it to fail.
When using a sling, you should always use the full rated load of the sling, but never exceed the maximum rated load limit (W.L.L). If you’re using a sling with a mechanical eye, it’s critical to pass a hand over the end attachment to ensure it’s properly seated and that no broken wires are present. It’s also a good idea to check the sling eye to make sure it can fit over the hook or pin on which you’re mounting it. All slings with welded end attachments, such as swaged-socket eyes or poured-socket eye fittings, must be proof tested by the manufacturer.
Synthetic Slings
Heavy industries such as construction, shipping, and aviation depend on lifting slings slings and hoists to lift and move loads. When employees understand the responsibilities and risks associated with these tools, they can make better decisions when using them. This can help lower the risk of damage, injuries, and accidents that result from improper sling use.
Synthetic slings are made from lightweight yet durable materials such as polyester and nylon. They are designed to support a wide variety of load shapes and sizes, including breakable materials and those with irregular shapes. They can be used in choker, vertical, and basket hitches. They are also safe for use in explosive environments since they are non-sparking and non-conductive.
The strength of a synthetic webbing sling is determined by its load-bearing fibers or core yarns that are shielded from abrasion and impact by a woven jacket. This woven jacket also protects the sling from scratches, dents, and crushing of smooth or polished surfaces. These slings may stretch 3-5% during a lift at their capacity.
Each sling is rated for its maximum load capacity and should be clearly labeled with this information. It is important to follow these restrictions, as exceeding them can jeopardize the safety of your team and the loads you work with. If you have any questions about the rated capacity of your sling, consult a qualified person.