Lifting slings are flexible tools used with cranes, hoists, or forklifts to attach, balance, and lift heavy, bulky, or irregularly shaped loads. Their function is to bridge the gap between a lifting machine and a load that lacks built-in fastening points. A very wide variety of applications can be addressed by varying both the materials that make up the sling and how the materials are configured.
Common Types of Lifting Slings
Synthetic Flat Slings
- Flat woven polyester or nylon straps with loops (eyes) at each end
- Lightweight and gentle on delicate surfaces.
Synthetic Round Slings
- Continuous (endless) loops of yarn protected by a tough outer fabric jacket
- Flexible and ideal for wrapping pipes or tubes.
Alloy Chain Slings
- Heavy-duty multi-leg Slings built from Lifting Chain
- Recommended for extreme strength, high heat, and repetitive industrial use.
Wire Rope Slings
- Legs of steel wire rope joined together with master links and hard eyes
- Strong, rugged, and cost-effective for general construction.
Metal Mesh Slings
- High grade steel wire rope woven into a wide mesh
- Excellent for hot, sharp, or abrasive loads