Chain-slings are a robust lifting accessory for the safe lifting of heavy loads. Depending on the application, requirements regarding working load limit (WLL), number of legs, effective length, temperature resistance, fittings etc. can vary significantly in some cases, e.g. for different slinging situations, such as with asymmetrical loads or varying slinging angles.
On this page, you will find the most important basics regarding chain-slings, as well as specific guidance on selection and use.
Chain-slings (also known as sling chains) of grades 8, 10 and 12 are among the most popular chain-slings. They are used in a wide variety of applications to lift heavy loads or goods safely, for example in construction, industry or mechanical engineering. Thanks to their high strength and durability, they are particularly suitable for harsh and mechanically demanding environments. Another key advantage is that they can be shortened using shortening hooks or claws.
The working length L describes the effective length of a chain-sling, including all fittings. It is crucial for the lifting situation, as it influences the angle of inclination. A larger slinging angle reduces the permissible load capacity, which is why the working length must always be selected to suit the application.
Chain-sling are defined by their nominal size or nominal thickness (e.g. 6, 8, 10 or 13 mm), grade (6, 8, 10, 12), the working length L and the number of legs (one to four legs). Together with the sling angle and the method of slinging, these parameters determine the working load limit (WLL). The technical principles and requirements are set out in the DIN EN 818 standard.
A chain-sling usually consists of several components designed to work together along its nominal length: At the upper end, there is usually the suspension link or the suspension assembly, for example for integration with an indoor crane. This is followed by a connecting element for the chain, such as a coupling link. Depending on the design, a shortening element may also be integrated. At the lower end of the chain are the end fittings (hooks, end links, etc.). It is important that the lifting-chain has a load capacity and inspection sticker is affixed, indicating the permissible load and inspection details.
Chain-slings are generally manufactured as modular systems. They are assembled using mechanical fasteners, which allows individual components to be flexibly replaced or adjusted. These systems are typically available in strength classes 6, 8, 10 and 12.
Chains are particularly suitable for heavy loads and demanding operating conditions. Typical examples include high mechanical stresses, harsh environments or sharp-edged loads, e.g. steel girders or machine parts. They are also suitable for use at high temperatures, although the permissible load capacity may be reduced depending on the temperature, and the manufacturer’s specifications must always be observed. A further advantage is that the strands can be shortened using shortening elements.
Rule of thumb: In the case of mechanical stress or robust loads → tend to use chains.
Steel chains should be used when textile slings reach their limits. This applies in particular to loads with sharp edges, high temperatures (except for aramid products) or severe abrasion, such as unmachined metal parts. Textile slings are, on the other hand, more suitable when sensitive surfaces need to be protected or the weight of the sling itself needs to be reduced. Textile slings are also available with edge protection systems, cut-resistant sleeves and a variety of materials, meaning they can be used time and again even where there are sharp edges or high levels of abrasion.
As a general rule: Steel chains are frequently used for very high temperatures and in harsh or sharp-edged applications, whilst textile slings offer advantages for sensitive surfaces or where low weight is required. However, the specific choice is highly individual and depends very much on the material and the operating conditions.
Textile chain-slings consist of high-strength synthetic fibres and are constructed as chain-like systems. They combine the low weight typical of textile slings with the flexibility (including modular systems and the ability to be shortened) and performance of a steel chain. This makes them particularly suitable for applications where steel chains are too heavy or where the surface of the load needs to be protected, e.g. with painted components or in plant engineering. Thanks to their low weight, they enable more ergonomic working than with heavy steel chains.
One example is the textile chain DoNova® PowerLift. It consists of individual webbing layers formed into Möbius rings (even load distribution) and can be used in a modular fashion, just like a steel chain. Compared to steel chains, it is significantly lighter and more ergonomic, which greatly improves handling. At the same time, it reduces the risk of damage to sensitive surfaces. It is particularly suitable for handling sensitive components. For applications involving sharp edges, it may only be used in combination with suitable edge protection.
Yes, a multi-leg chain-slings can also be used as a single-strand chain. Strands that are not required are re-hooked into the suspension assembly. In this case, the permissible working load limit (WLL) is reduced to that of a single-leg chain. It is important that the load is slung in accordance with the reduced WLL.
The safety factor of chain-slings is at least 4:1. This means that the breaking load is at least four times the working load limit (WLL). This requirement is laid down in standards such as DIN EN 818.
Steel lifting chains are unsuitable if sensitive surfaces could be damaged or if the chain's own weight plays a decisive role (in this case, a textile sling would be a possible alternative). In the presence of aggressive chemical influences, the suitability of the chain should be checked thoroughly in advance. Use is also prohibited if the permissible load capacity is exceeded or if the slinging configuration cannot be carried out correctly.
Chain-slings must be visually inspected for damage before each use. In addition, regular inspection by a qualified inspector is required. The relevant standards and the manufacturer’s specifications apply.
A standard solution is often insufficient, particularly for complex applications – for example, if you require special hooks, specific leg lengths or customised combinations. In the configurator, you can put together your own chain-sling to suit your specific application exactly.
Go to the chain-sling configurator
As the world market leader in load securing and lifting technologies, Dolezych stands for safe solutions for lifting, moving and transporting loads. In our slinging equipment seminars, you will benefit from over 90 years of experience, up-to-date practical knowledge and the expertise of a company that develops its own products, participates in international standardisation bodies and actively drives innovation within the industry.
We do not merely teach theoretical principles, but provide practical knowledge for the safe use of slings in day-to-day work. Our experts draw on experience gained from a range of over 20,000 items as well as from numerous customised solutions – from standard slings right through to bespoke designs for specific requirements.
With six locations across four continents and its headquarters in the Port of Dortmund, Dolezych combines international expertise with personalised on-site support. This means you receive training content directly from the manufacturer and system partner, which has stood for quality, safety and practical solutions in lifting and slinging technology for decades.
