The Different Types of Industrial Slings

Knowing which type of sling is best for what job is a crucial skill when working in an industrial environment. No matter what sling you need, it's essential not to overload it to reduce the chance of an accident or severe injury. Here are some of the different types of industrial slings and for which jobs each is best suited.

Round Slings

Typically made from polyester, round slings are lightweight, inexpensive, and flexible. Round slings are ideal when lifting cylindrical objects, such as piping. The round sling tightens itself to the surface of the cylinder and creates a powerful grip. Due to the fragile nature of the polyester surrounding the interior, round slings are not ideal for lifting anything with sharp corners, which may cause the sling to rupture or tear.

Chain Slings

Chain slings are often a hook or loop at the end of one or more chains. One of the largest advantages of the chain sling is its versatility and configuration options. Due to their weight and size, chain slings are often more expensive but balance out by their ability to handle the vast majority of jobs and increased weight capacity.

Web Slings

Web slings are solid, cost-effective options for lifting objects that need a little more support. Much like with round slings, it's a good idea to avoid using web slings to lift things with sharp surfaces or corners that may damage or rip the sling. There are different varieties of web slings, but many have a canopy connecting two main pieces together to hold items from a wider surface area.

Wire Rope Slings

One of the most resilient of the different types of industrial slings, wire rope slings are sturdy, cut resistant, flexible, and suitable for lifting heavy materials such as concrete or steel. The thick metal wires that make up the sling resist high temperatures and are the best choice for moving any heated metals or materials in an industrial setting.