Chain Slings


by sam swift - Date: 2010-10-07 - Word Count: 541 Share This!

Within this article we will consider some central information concerning using chain hoists and how using them in their various mixtures can influence safety.

Chain slings are most used in foundries or steel mills or numerous other industries when the call arises to lift difficult objects regularly, since chain slings can endure great temperatures, and are resilient to chemicals and UV light. Though it is wise to check with the manufacturer / distributor when using in dangerous areas, such as high temperatures and powerful / corrosive substances, to check its suitability and working load limit under the special circumstances.

Because of the countless diverse mixtures offered chain slings are a extremely versatile form of lifting equipment. Chain slings are typically attached to an electric hoist or winch by means of a hook, that can be an open hook or one with a safety catch fitted, the load must always sit in the dish of the hook on no account on its tip.

Chain slings impart great strength and versatility owing to its alloy steel design and the abundant fittings obtainable to go with its specific function.
Chain slings are offered in a range of assemblies, single leg, double leg, 3 or even 4 leg chain slings. Chain slings can also be used in a choice of lift combinations, straight lift, choke lift or basket lift, furthermore 2 Two leg chain slings can be used concurrently in the different hitches, and 4 leg slings can be made up from 2 x two leg chain slings.

There are various special situations to take into account dependant upon the type of chain sling or slings used and which hitch is needed for the proposed application all of which will have an consequence on the safe working load limit, consequently it is largely significant to speak to specialists for information on how to use your chain sling safely.

Various loads are asymmetrical and as a result, don't balance about their centre point and need extra vigilant handling. It is crucial for the slinger to attain the skill of estimating the position of the centre of gravity and then place the crane hook immediately over this estimated place.

There are countless safety aspects to take into contemplation whilst using chain slings, and should always arrive supplied with safe use information which must be adopted closely, and by no means exceed the safe working load limit. Chain slings should in no way be knotted or twisted, the chain sling can be safely shortened by the use of a shortening hook.

Chain slings are probably the strongest slings available and come in 2 grades, grade 80 which is the norm in industry and grade 100 which are 25% stronger.

Chain slings nevertheless possess little shock absorbency, consequently they can snap if not used correctly, and inspected frequently for nicks and gouges, stretched or bent links or any other signs of damage, if in doubt, don't use, speak to a specialist as frequently chains can be fixed, tested and recertified, which is more economical than discarding and buying new.

European standards recommend thorough inspection of chain slings fewer than yearly; the majority UK industries apply a maximum interval of 6 months.
Good slinging practice is vital and is merely learned through experience, not from a text book.

Related Tags: chain slings, chain sling, lifting gear

Your Article Search Directory : Find in Articles

© The article above is copyrighted by it's author. You're allowed to distribute this work according to the Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivs license.
 

Recent articles in this category:



Most viewed articles in this category: