WHAT ARE LIFTING SLINGS?
Lifting slings, or rigging slings, are used to connect heavy loads to a lifting device, such as a hoist or crane. It’s vital that the lifting sling ensures loads and equipment are securely attached, and the right type of lifting sling is used. They are an essential tool in many industrial and commercial industries, including warehousing and construction. Quality is therefore paramount when purchasing heavy duty lifting slings to enable safe and efficient lifting.
TYPES OF LIFTING SLINGS
It’s important to use the right lifting sling for your operations to reduce safety risks and damage to loading goods. Common types of slings for lifting include:
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Round slings: A soft and flexible synthetic sling made from high-tenacity polyester fibres. Shaped in a continuous loop, they are great for heavy-duty lifting without damaging loads, such as furniture and truck loading.
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Chain slings: Using multiple chain links and legs to suit different load shapes, chain slings are durable, resistant to abrasion, and can withstand higher temperatures than fabric-made slings.
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Wire rope slings: Featuring twisted steel wires, they provide a strong and flexible connection and are a popular choice due to their versatility.
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Webbing slings: Made from high-strength synthetic fibres, these are a lightweight option, they offer a wide bearing surface to protect the load, and their stretch characteristics minimise shock loading problems.
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Endless flat belt lifting slings: Another continuous loop design and made from woven synthetic fibres to form a flat ribbon-like structure. Used commonly to lift flat surface objects such as wood or concrete.
If you’re unsure on what lifting sling your application requires, our team of experts are available to discuss and find the perfect lifting solution to enhance your operations.
POLYESTER WEBBING SLINGS
Lifting heavy goods and loads that could be easily damaged using rough chain slings is now no longer a problem. Polyester lifting slings were specifically developed to lift objects where surface damage would be unacceptable (such as a mega yacht or newly painted surfaces). The soft polyester significantly reduces friction and damage to surfaces, ensuring your goods remain in tip-top condition when being transported. Another clear advantage of Soft Slings is the huge reduction in the actual weight of the sling itself.
Polyester webbing slings can be purchased as standard with an eye on each end, or they can be customised to your specifications - all of our custom-made slings are webbed in the UK.
BESPOKE LIFTING SLINGS
As we manufacture many of our slings in the UK, we are able to offer a bespoke manufactured sling service, designed and built to your exacting requirements, in small and large volumes. Please note that minimum order charges may apply.
Our products are built-to-order and assembled in the UK, utilising only the highest quality chains and components, all certified upon dispatch.
Want to make a large order? We have the ability to import large volumes with very short notice. When you order with the Lifting Equipment Store, you’ll receive the best delivery service in the UK.
SPECIALIST SUPPLIERS OF MADE-TO-ORDER LIFTING SLINGS
All our lifting slings comply with current EN standards, providing you with the confidence that you are investing in the most reliable and compliant products available. Our dedication to quality and safety extends to every product we supply.
All our lifting slings comply with current EN standards, providing you with the confidence that you are investing in the most reliable and compliant products available. Our dedication to quality and safety extends to every product we supply. Each of our slings comes with a clearly visible and identifiable label, detailing essential information such as the serial number, date of manufacture, safe working load limits, and other pertinent specifications.
LIFTING SLING FAQS
The choice depends on factors including load weight, shape, lifting environment, and attachment points. The most common types include: Web Slings, Round Slings, Wire Rope Slings & Chain Slings.
Always refer to the Working Load Limit (WLL), which is determined by sling type and size, number of legs, lifting angle, and hitch type. Always use a sling angle chart and consult manufacturer data for exact safe load limits.
Lifting slings should be visually inspected before each use and undergo regular documented inspections, typically every 3-6 months. Replace slings immediately if you see any: cuts, tears, broken wires, excessive wear, corrosion, distorted fittings or end attachments, missing or unreadable identification tags.
It depends on the type of lifting slings. Synthetic round, webbing or endless slings are usually not repairable. Whilst chain and wire rope slings can go through minor repairs, if done by a qualified professional.
