Rigging Equipment : Slings

A sling is one of various designs of webbing (usually Nylon) or steel (chain or cable) straps either with eyes on each end or an endless loop, used in rigging for lifting heavy loads. A choker sling is intended for use with one end run thru the other end in a way that allows it to tighten on the load to positively secure it during a lift.

Synthetic web slings
Advantages

- Extremely flexible
- Mold to shape of load
- Will not damage the load
- Relatively light weight

Disadvantages
- Subject to heat damage
- Stretch uder load
- Subject to cut or tear
- Subject to damage dau to sharp angles
- Require tag on sling


Wire Rope Slings
Advantages
- Easy to find
- Good strength to size ratio
- Light weight
- Easy to inspect
- Easy to find capacity
- No tag required

Disadvantages
- Stiff around small objects
- Hard to bend around sharp corner
- May not grip slick items such as pipe


Chain Slings
Advantages
- Durable n almost conditions
- Will mold to shape of most load
- Easily Adjusted

Disadvantages
- Difficult to inspect
- Heavy and bulky
- Will damage some loads
- Require tag on sling