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| Care
& Use of Chain Slings |
•
Introduction to Chain Slings
• Working Load Limits of Alloy Chain
Slings
• Campbell®
Chain Sling Program
Although chain slings are designed
for rugged, lasting service, precautions should be observed
to extend the product's useful life. Certain hazards are
inherent in the operation of chain slings and users must
exercise intelligence, care and common sense to ensure a
safe working environment.
- Never
exceed the working load limit of a chain sling.
- All
fittings and attachments must have a working load limit
(WLL) equal to or greater than that of the chain; if not,
the assembly must be rated at the WLL of the weakest component.
- Do
not rest or drop load on chain.
- Eliminate
all twists, knots or kinks before lifting.
- Do
not point load hooks - load should be seated properly
within throat opening and centered in bowl of the hook.
- Balance
the load to avoid undue stress on one leg of multi-leg
slings.
- Never
bounce, jerk or shockload a sling when lifting or lowering
items. Remove slack by slowly applying the load to the
chain.
- Use
pads around sharp corners.
- Never
force or hammer hooks or chain into position.
- Never
anneal alloy chain slings.
- Do
not use in acid solutions. Consult manufacturer for recommendations.
- If
possible, avoid extreme temperatures (under 20 degrees
F or over 350 degrees F).
- Temporary
and permanent reductions to working load limits occur
when chain slings are used at high temperatures.

- Return
slings to manufacturer to ensure proper repair procedures
are followed.
- Clean
chain slings regularly since dirt and grit can cause wear
at link bearing points.
- Protect
chain from corrosion.
- Store
chain slings in a clean, dry area, preferably by hanging
on racks or A-frames; slings stored on floors are subject
to abuse.
- Institute
a continuous inspection program to maximize life expectancy.
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| Sling
angles have a direct and oftentimes dramatic affect on the
working load limit of a sling. This
angle, which is measured between a horizontal line and the
sling leg or body, may apply to a single leg sling in an angled
vertical or basket hitch, or to a multi-legged bridle sling.
Anytime pull is exerted at an angle on a leg, the tension
or stress on each leg is increased. To illustrate, each sling
leg in a vertical basket hitch absorbs 500 lbs. of stress
from a 1,000 lb. load. The same load, when lifted in a 60
degree basket hitch, exerts 577 lbs. of tension on each leg.
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is critical therefore, that working load limits be reduced
to account for sling angles. Angles less than 45 degrees are
not recommended and those below 30 degrees should be avoided
whenever possible. Use the formula and chart shown below to
calculate the reduction in working load limits caused by various
sling angles. |
| Actual
Sling Working Load Limit = Factor x Working Load Limit

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