A sling is a piece of equipment on a crane. Most often it is not part of the crane. They are used where there is a need to move loads. They are used in handling processes in equipment such as:

  • Żslingsurawa
  • Cranes
  • Overhead cranes
  • Hoists

This depends on a number of factors such as the weight of the goods, the size and the type of load being transported. These parameters make it possible to select the right slings and determine the safety of the work during handling. We can distinguish between, among others, slings:

  • Rope
  • Chain
  • Belt
  • Snake

Rope slings

Rope slings are the most popular of those used in the crane sling industry. They are made of flexible, galvanised steel ropes. They are characterised by their versatility, durability and large range of Permissible Working Loads. Rope slings can be divided according to the number of ropes that are present in the sling and the way they are terminated.

Chain slings

Chain slings are made from grade 8,10 and 12 components and are resistant to harmful external influences. They can be used from -40ºC to +200ºC. They also have a high abrasion resistance. Chain slings are used in industry. They can be joined, shortened and even used with handles.

Belt slings

Belt slings are manufactured from polyester webbing. Its colour determines the Allowable Working Load. The advantage of this type of sling is its resistance to oils, greases and moisture. They can be used from -40 to +100°C. They are mainly used for delicate goods that are sensitive to pressure.

Hose slings

Hose slings are made of polyester fibres which are enclosed in woven protective sleeves. Their colour, again as with webbing slings, determines the Permissible Working Load. Hose slings have the advantage of being resistant to grease, oil and moisture. They are used for delicate goods that are sensitive to pressure. An undoubted advantage of these slings is the very good weight/strength ratio. Slings can be built to withstand very heavy loads, which can reach up to several tonnes.

Service, repairs, inspections, surveys.

inspection and control of slings

In order to use crane equipment fitted with slings efficiently and safely, it is necessary to carry out regular inspections of the slings. The user of slings must regularly inspect them. During the period of use of a sling, there are 3 types of its inspection:

  • Ongoing control - visual inspection of the technical condition of the sling before starting work and during use
  • Periodic inspection - visual inspection and measurement of all sling components, assessment of their wear and suitability for further use. It should be carried out at least twice a year, every 2-3 months in the case of heavy use.
  • Periodic surveys - should be carried out once a year, in the case of heavy workloads twice a year.

Who carries out inspections and reviews of suspensions

In order to carry out a sling inspection, you need the right authorisation, knowledge and skills in this area. According to the regulations, inspections or checks should be carried out by a competent person. Such a person can be designated by the employer.

More often than not, the person in charge of sling inspections is a certified hooksman.

The sling inspections carried out must be properly documented. An appropriate document is issued confirming that the device is undamaged. If it is damaged, it must be replaced with a new one or reconditioned.