Steel Sling Questions
Q: Is there a difference between domestic and import web and wire rope products?
A: Lift-All® warrants that all of our products are free from defects in materials and workmanship. Testing is performed on all of the materials we use to assure that you are getting only the highest quality products.
Q: Do I need tags on my wire rope slings?
A: ASME standards call for wire rope slings to have identification tags. However, OSHA has not yet adopted that standard. Lift-All tags all wire rope slings with our Tuff-Tag brand tags.
Q: What is the best wire rope to use for my application?
A: The standard rope used by Lift-All on slings up through 1 1/8” diameter is 6 X 19, EIP, IWRC. This rope provides good abrasion resistance with flexibility suitable for most applications. Lift-All will be happy to evaluate your application if you feel that you are not getting sufficient sling life from the slings you are using.
Q: Is a new wire rope sling with a “high strand” in the eye acceptable?
A: While the Flemish splice method tends to result in varying degrees of strand looping in the sling eye, we suggest that this is not cause for removal from service as sling strength and durability are not effected. High strands in the sling body, however, do affect sling strength and indicate that the sling is damaged and should be removed from service.
Q: Will chain last longer than wire rope?
A: When used under the same conditions, chain slings can be expected to last longer than wire rope slings.
Q: What grade of chain is required for overhead lifting?
A:The National Association of Chain Manufacturers allows only alloy steel chain to be used for overhead lifting. Although not specified by OSHA, they will enforce the NACM requirement. The only exception to this requirement is in special circumstances where the use of an alloy chain cannot be suitably used. (i.e., exposure to certain chemicals). In this special situation, permission from the chain/sling manufacturer must be provided.
Q: What is the difference between grade 80 and grade 100 chain?
A: Grade 100 chain slings are approximately 25% stronger than grade 80 chain slings of the same diameter. The chain is harder, resulting in greater abrasion resistance and, therefore, longer life.
Q: Why do chain slings have only one capacity on their tags?
A: Industrial and governmental standards in the U.S. do not address the down rating of chain slings when used in a choker hitch. Chain slings may be used in a choker hitch up to the vertical rating on the tag. A basket hitch will be double the tag rating. As with all slings, lifting at an angle will reduce sling ratings.
Q: Can you re-tag chain slings in the field without sending them in to be proof tested?
A: No. The sling must be sent back to Lift-All for inspection and proof testing before it can be retagged.
Q: Is there an advantage to a welded chain sling assembly over a mechanical assembly?
A: Welded chain slings are tamper proof, assuring that you have an assembly that has not been compromised with an incompatible component.
