Round steel link chain making for 30+ years
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SHANGHAI CHIGONG INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD

(round steel link chain manufacturer)

Choosing Between Round Link Chain Slings and Wire Rope Slings: A Safety-Focused Guide

In industrial lifting operations, selecting the right sling isn’t just about efficiency—it’s a critical safety decision. Round link chain slings and wire rope slings dominate the market, yet their distinct structures create unique advantages and limitations. Understanding these differences ensures both operator safety and cargo integrity. 

Round Link Chain Slings: The Durable Workhorse

Structure: Interlocked solid alloy steel links (typically G80/G100 grade).

Best For:

- Heavy, abrasive, or high-temperature environments (e.g., foundries, steel mills)

- Loads with sharp edges or uneven surfaces

- Extreme durability applications

Advantages of round link chain slings:

✅ Superior Abrasion Resistance – Withstands scraping against rough surfaces.

✅ Heat Tolerance – Performs reliably up to 400°C (vs. wire rope’s 120°C limit).

✅ Damage Visibility – Bent links or wear are easily spotted during inspection.

✅ Repairability – Individual damaged links can be replaced.

Limitations of round link chain slings:

❌ Higher weight (increases manual handling risks)

❌ Less flexible – not ideal for delicate/oddly shaped loads

❌ Vulnerable to acid/corrosive chemicals

Wire Rope Slings: The Flexible Performer

Structure: Stranded steel wires wound around a core (6x36 or 8x19 configurations common). 

Best For:

- Cylindrical or fragile loads (e.g., pipes, glass panels) 

- Situations requiring cushioning/shock absorption 

- Frequent reeving/drum winding 

Advantages of wire rope slings:

✅ High Flexibility – Conforms to load shapes without kinking. 

✅ Lighter Weight – Reduces worker fatigue. 

✅ Better Load Distribution – Minimizes point pressure on delicate cargo. 

✅ Corrosion Resistance – Especially with galvanized/stainless variants. 

Limitations of wire rope slings:

❌ Abrasion-prone – Wears faster on rough surfaces 

❌ Hidden Damage Risk – Internal wire breaks may go undetected 

❌ Heat Sensitivity – Strength drops sharply above 120°C  

Critical Selection Criteria: Matching Sling to Scenario

The framework below helps make informed choices: 

1. Load Type & Surface

   - Sharp edges/abrasive surfaces → Chain Slings

   - Delicate/curved surfaces → Wire Rope Slings

2. Environmental Factors

   - High heat (>120°C) → Chain Slings

   - Chemical exposure → Galvanized Wire Rope

   - Marine/outdoor settings → Stainless Wire Rope

3. Safety & Longevity

   - Need visual damage checks? → Chain Slings

   - Shock loading expected? → Wire Rope (superior elasticity) 

   - Corrosive particles (e.g., salt, sulfur) → Wire Rope with PVC Coating

4. Operational Practicality

   - Frequent reconfiguration → Wire Rope

   - Ultra-heavy loads (50T+) → Grade 100 Chain Slings

   - Tight spaces → Compact Chain Slings

When Compromise Isn’t an Option

- For critical lifts: Always prioritize manufacturer ratings (WLL) and compliance (ASME B30.9, EN 13414 for wire rope; EN 818 for chains). 

- Inspect relentlessly: Chains require link-by-link examination; wire ropes need "birdcaging" and core checks. 

- Retire immediately if chains show stretch/bent links, or wire ropes exhibit 10%+ broken wires.  

Chain slings offer brute durability in punishing environments, while wire ropes excel in versatility and sensitive handling. By aligning sling properties to your cargo’s profile and worksite conditions, you protect personnel, preserve assets, and optimize operational life.  

Need a personalized assessment?

→ Consult SCIC’s Lifting Solutions Team: [info@scic-chain.com](mailto:info@scic-chain.com) 

Post time: Aug-13-2025

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