Wire rope, chain and synthetic web slings can all lift the same load, but each one suits different jobs. Choosing the wrong type is a common cause of damaged loads and worn-out slings.
At a glance
| Wire rope sling | Chain sling | Web / round sling | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Medium | Heaviest | Lightest |
| Abrasion resistance | Good | Very good | Poor without sleeves |
| Heat | Good (steel core better) | Best | Limited (polyester to about 100°C) |
| Protects finished surfaces | No | No | Yes |
| Adjustable length | No | Yes, with shortening hooks | No |
| Cut resistance | Good | Very good | Poor: needs edge protection |
| Ease of inspection | Moderate | Easy (link by link) | Easy but damage hides inside round slings |
Wire rope slings
Wire rope slings are the general-purpose choice for construction, fabrication shops and ports. They are strong for their weight, resist abrasion and are economical to make to any length with pressed ferrules and thimbles. Their weak points are sharp bends, which cut capacity, and kinking. See the wire rope sling capacity chart for ratings.
Chain slings
Alloy chain slings (grade 80 or grade 100) are the toughest option. They tolerate heat, rough handling and sharp-edged steel, can be shortened with grab hooks, and are easy to inspect link by link. They are heavier and more expensive, and a single overloaded link can stretch without obvious warning. They are standard in foundries, steel yards and heavy maintenance.
Web slings and round slings
Polyester web and round slings are light, flexible and do not mark polished, painted or delicate loads. Under EN 1492 they are colour-coded by capacity (for example violet 1 t, green 2 t, yellow 3 t, grey 4 t, red 5 t). They must be protected from sharp edges, chemicals and heat, and should be replaced once cut or abraded.
Which one should you choose?
- Steel sections, scaffolding, general site lifting: wire rope slings
- Hot work, very rough loads, need for adjustable legs: chain slings
- Painted, polished or fragile loads; pipes with coatings: web or round slings
Many sites keep all three. We supply wire rope slings and chain slings, webbing and round slings, and can help you choose.
Frequently asked questions
Is a chain sling stronger than a wire rope sling?
Not necessarily by size, but alloy chain slings handle heat, abrasion and rough loads better. For the same rated capacity a wire rope sling is lighter.
When should I use a web sling?
Use a web or round sling when the load's surface must not be marked or crushed, such as painted steel, coated pipe or machinery. Protect it from sharp edges.
What do web sling colours mean?
Under EN 1492 the colour shows the vertical working load limit, for example violet 1 t, green 2 t, yellow 3 t, grey 4 t and red 5 t. Always read the label as well.