19 Aug 2016

Types of Slings: A Guide to Different Lifting Slings

Slings are vital components in any lifting job, acting as the link between the load and the hoist. Choosing the right types of slings is important for ensuring safety and efficiency on every lift. There are various types of slings designed for different tasks, so understanding their unique properties is key to protecting your equipment and staff. This blog explores a few of the most common sling types to make sure you choose the right type for your lifting needs.

Common Types of Lifting Slings

When it comes to attaching a load to a hoist, you’ll likely see a variety of types of slings for lifting. Their versatility and strength make them essential for countless applications across different industries. Learn more and shop our range of lifting slings here.

Chain Slings

Known for their durability, chain slings are a top choice for heavy-duty lifting in demanding environments. They’re very versatile and can be configured with multiple legs to suit different load shapes. They also have a resistance to abrasion and cutting and can withstand higher temperatures than synthetic or wire rope slings.

Wire Rope Slings

Strong and flexible, wire rope slings feature twisted steel wires arranged into strands around a core. They’re used to connect a heavy load to a lifting device, and their multi-layered construction distributes the load across many wires. They’re a popular, versatile option for a wide range of lifting applications.

Webbing Slings

Webbing slings are lightweight but used to lift and secure heavy loads. These sling types are made from high-strength synthetic fibres and offer a wide bearing surface to protect the load. They can handle a range of heavy lifting jobs without getting damaged and their stretch characteristics minimise shock loading problems.

Round Slings

Round slings are a synthetic sling made from a continuous loop of high-tenacity polyester fibres. They’re known for being soft and flexible, which means they conform to irregular shapes and provide a secure, non-damaging grip. Round slings can be used for heavy-duty jobs like moving furniture, loading and unloading trucks and lifting delicate items.

Endless Flat Belt Lifting Slings

The ‘endless’ or continuous loop design of these slings makes them well suited for many different types of loads and rigging scenarios. As there are no fixed endpoints, you can rotate the sling to distribute wear and tear across the surface, making it a cost-effective choice for frequent lifting tasks.

Things to Consider When Choosing Lifting Slings

Choosing the right types of slings for your job requires careful consideration of many factors to ensure safety and efficiency. Each type has its own strengths and knowing which one is right for your situation makes all the difference:

Load capacity (Working Load Limit – WLL): Ensure the sling can safely handle the maximum weight of the load you’re lifting.
Type of load: Consider the shape, fragility and any sharp edges on the load, which may require a specific material or protective sleeves.
Sling material: Choose between chain, wire rope, or synthetic slings depending on durability, flexibility and resistance to abrasion.
Environmental conditions: Consider temperature, moisture, chemicals and UV exposure, as these elements may affect sling performance.
Frequency of use: Heavy, repetitive lifting may require more robust and long-lasting sling types.
Safety standards and compliance: Ensure your slings meet all relevant industry regulations (e.g., LOLER, OSHA) for a safe operation.
Ease of inspection and maintenance: Choose slings that are easy to check for wear, damage or stretching.

Attachment and lifting method: Match the sling design to the lifting equipment (e.g., hooks, shackles, hoists).

The Right Sling for Every Job

Choosing the right sling ensures a safe and successful lift. At Lifting Equipment Store, we offer a wide selection of high-quality lifting sling types to meet diverse needs, whether you’re moving large pieces of machinery, securing loads on trucks or hoisting delicate equipment.

Our team has a commitment to quality, combined with expert advice and fast delivery to make sure you get the right product at the right time. For expert advice, don’t hesitate to contact us or explore our range of electric chain hoists for your application.

Types of Lifting Slings FAQs

What are the main types of lifting slings?

The most common types of slings for lifting are chain slings, wire rope slings, synthetic web slings and round slings. Each has different strengths, such as durability for heavy loads or flexibility for delicate items.

Which sling is best for heavy loads?

Chain slings are typically the strongest and most durable, making them ideal for heavy-duty lifting in harsh environments.

Are synthetic slings safe for lifting?

Yes, synthetic slings (web or round) are safe when used correctly. They’re lightweight and flexible but should not be used on sharp edges without protective sleeves.

How do I know which sling to use?

The right sling depends on several factors, including load weight, shape, environment and frequency of use. Always check the sling’s Working Load Limit (WLL) to ensure it can safely handle the job.

How often should lifting slings be inspected?

Slings should be visually inspected before every use. They must also undergo regular and thorough examinations according to safety regulations (e.g., LOLER or OSHA) to ensure they remain in good working condition and protect your workforce.