what is wire rope sling factory

In the case of the "U" shaped sling, lifting is accomplished by firmly attaching the eyes to a hook or hoist, though both ends are then simultaneously lifted in order to wrap around or cradle the supplies or finished goods to be lifted.

Unlike synthetic or fiber slings, wire rope offers increased resistance to wear and abrasion and can be used for both hot and cold materials as well as in corrosive applications such as those in marine, construction, aerospace, manufacturing, assembly, transport, shipping, and other industries where wire rope slings are commonly used. Wire ropes fitted with slings in these applications also serve to improve connectivity and prevent fraying of the rope.

Like stranded wire ropes, the slings that they attach too are strictly regulated and must be inspected regularly as mechanical failure puts both machinery and employees at serious risk. To prevent such disruptions, it is important to select the proper sling for a given application.

Slings are most commonly constructed simply by looping or folding the end of a wire rope back onto itself and holding it in place with a firm fitting such as a clamp. Alternatively, the folded segment of wire may be braided or twisted along the main body of rope and otherwise held in place through welding or similar processes.

The rope itself is comprised of cold drawn filaments that are twisted or braided into strands which in turn are helically wrapped around a core. The multilayered formation of wire rope acts as a safety measure as individual strands are more likely to fail than the rope as a whole, allowing the other strands to act as a backup.

Popular materials for wire rope and sling construction include aluminum, nickel alloy, bronze, copper, and titanium, although steel and stainless steel are the most common due to their increased strength and availability.

Additional considerations include the wire rope sling"s dimensions, fatigue strength, its ability to bend without distortion, to withstand abrasion, and environmental conditions as well as the intended use for the sling.

Wire rope is constructed of multiple strands of wire that are twisted and braided together to form a spiral design or helix. Once the separate wires are shaped into a solid form, they become a single wire with greater strength because the individual wires equalize pressure and have greater flexibility than the individual strands.

To further enhance the strength of wire ropes, they are grouped and wound together to produce cables, which adds to their usefulness as a means of support, ability to lift, and give structural stability.

A key factor in wire rope is the lay of the strands, which can be regular or lang. With regular lay, or right and ordinary lay, the strands are wound from left to right with the wires laid in the opposite direction of the lay of the strands. With lang lay, the wires are wound in the same direction.

The structure and design of wire rope produces a final product that has superior strength, excellent strength flexibility, and the ability to handle constant bending stress as well as being weather resistant.

Wire rope is one of those products that has found a place in a wide variety of industries since it can be adapted and shaped to fit several applications. It can be found as a tow cable for boats and airplanes or in the movie industry as a harness for stunt artists. The varied uses of wire rope have made it an essential part of operations that require a rope with strength, endurance, and flexibility.

In the aerospace industry, wire ropes, or Bowden cables, connect pedals and levers in the airplane cockpit to send power to aircraft systems to control the airplane. The things that are controlled by wire ropes are propeller pitch, cowl flaps, and throttle. Wire ropes on aircraft are insulated to avoid vibrations.

Wire rope is extensively used in the auto industry for a wide variety of applications due to its versatility and strength. It is used for raising windows and opening and closing sunroofs. Other uses include steering wheels, cables, exhausts, springs, sunroofs, doors, and seat components. In the manufacturing process, wire rope is used to hoist vehicles, move large body parts, and on hoists and cranes.

The construction industry has a greatest reliance on wire rope because of the need to lift and lower heavy loads. Wire rope used in construction must have extremely high strength and exceptional performance for safety reasons and efficiency. Larger versions of wire rope are used for suspension bridges and supporting concrete columns.

The main use of wire rope in food processing is for lifting, moving loads, and other heavy tasks. Finished products or raw materials require being moved in storage units and processing centers. The strength and endurance of wire rope makes it possible to move these materials. Wire rope for food processing must be able to withstand regular chemical cleaning.

As with other industries, the oil and gas industry needs strong and reliable equipment for moving heavy equipment. In ocean drilling, machinery is dropped into the ocean using wire rope to securely hold devices to be dropped to extreme depths. Wire ropes are designed to withstand the extreme pressure and stress required. A further use of wire ropes for drilling operations is to maintain stability in the drilling lines. One of the unique features of oil rig wire rope is its length, which can exceed 10,000 feet.

A very common use for wire rope is mooring and towing of sea and freshwater boats and vessels. In the shipbuilding industry, wire rope is used to secure lifeboats as well as lower them into the water. On sailboats, wire rope is used to lift and lower sails. The benefit of using wire rope is its resistance to corrosion and rust caused by salt water and ocean mist.

The skiing industry, much like heavy equipment industries, uses wire rope to hold cars, lifts, or chairs to transport skiers up the mountain. This type of wire rope comes in several varieties depending on the size of the mountain. The benefits of wire rope for skiing is its dependability, guaranteed safety, and reliability. The main challenge of wire rope for use in sports is the weather conditions it must endure.

Since the beginnings of amusement parks, wire rope has been an essential part of attraction construction. It is used to bring roller coaster cars to the top of the ride, hold swings, and pull various vehicles through attractions. One of the main concerns of public amusement parks is safety since rides are filled with powerful machinery designed to operate continuously.

Making the dangerous and exciting shots in movies requires well planned safety precautions. One of the aspects of that planning is wire rope that is designed to protect performers when they are engaged in dangerous and life threatening shots. Dependable wire ropes are ideal since they have the flexibility, strength, endurance, and versatility to be adapted to any conditions.

In architecture and design, wire rope has been used for guard rails, balustrades, and roof construction. In innovative green buildings where plants grow along the surface of the building, the plants grow along specially designed vertical wire ropes that are capable of withstanding weather conditions.

A common use of wire rope is in railings, which are safe, durable, and provide a pleasing aesthetic appeal. The use of wire rope for railings provides protection without obstructing the view from a building. This aspect of wire rope is one of the reasons that it is used for large architectural projects since it blends into the structure without interiors with the architectural design.

The types of wire rope are determined by the number of wires in each strand and how many are in the rope, which is defined by a two number system with the first number being the number of wires and the second being the number of wires in each strand. For example, a 6x19 wire rope has 6 wires in 19 strands.

There are a wide variety of products that are produced using wire rope. The demand for wire rope products is due to its strength, durability, and reliability. Since the basic purpose of wire rope is to lift and move heavy materials and items, the most common type of wire rope product is the wire rope sling.

Though the construction of wire rope slings is very similar for all types, there are certain variations applied to slings to adjust them to fit different applications. Slings are configured in various ways to fit different types of loads. These changes are referred to as hitches.

Choker Hitch: In the choker configuration, one eye of the sling is attached to the lifting hook. The second eye is looped over the first sling eye to form a noose shape or choke. The load is placed in the choke loop.

Bridle Hitch: The multiple leg or bridle hitch style has more than one wire rope sling attached to equalize the load and control balance. They reduce load damage by using fixed points on the load and offer easier rigging when hooked into fixed lifting points. .

Single Part Wire Rope Sling: The eye for a single part wire rope sling is formed by looping the wire rope back on to the rope. The end of the rope is attached by a clamp or being woven by hand or mechanically into the rope body. Single part wire rope slings use a single wire rope to produce the sling.

Braided Wire Rope Sling: A braided wire rope sling is made by braiding wire ropes to form a sling. The increased number of strands enhances the strength of the sling and its load capacity. Braiding can be done with three to nine wire ropes.

Cable Laid Wire Rope Sling: Cable laid wire rope slings are made from combining several smaller wire ropes to form a flexible, easy to handle, and kink resistant sling.

Woven Eye Wire Rope Sling: For the woven eye version of a wire rope sling, the eye is formed by weaving the wire rope into itself after forming the loop. It is designed to reduce the chance of the sling catching or being hung up when lifting.

Thimble Wire Rope Sling: To add to the strength of wire rope slings and lessen the stress on a small area of the eye, a thimble, a U shaped piece into which the wire rope fits, is placed in the eye, which helps the sling to retain its natural shape. The thimble is positioned to prevent the hook or load from coming in contact with the wire rope.

Endless Wire Rope Sling:Endless wire rope slings are adaptable slings without a set wear point. They can be manufactured in a wide range of sizes and are used in applications where headroom may be a problem. Endless wire rope slings are made by splicing the ends of a piece of wire rope together or by tucking strand ends into the body to form a core with a tucked position the opposite of the core position. They are also referred to as grommet wire rope slings.

Coiled wire rope is made from bundles of small metal wires that are twisted into a coil. It comes in many varieties and is easy to store since it does not require a spool. Coiled wire rope is produced in coils. When it is not in use, it springs back into a coil, which makes it easy to handle.

Cable wire rope is a type of high strength rope, made of several individual filaments. These filaments are twisted into strands and helically wrapped around a core. One of the most common types of wire rope cable is steel cable.

Push pull wire rope assemblies are used to send force and are used in the aircraft, exercise, medical, automotive, and office equipment industries. Unlike using a single heavy wire, push pull assemblies made with wire rope are stiffer and have a larger bend radii for smoother motion of the wire.

Wire rope assemblies include wire rope and various parts and components that have been added to the wire rope to enhance its function. The connectors for a wire rope assembly are designed to connect the assembly to hooks, equipment, or machines as well as other wire rope assemblies. The central part of a wire rope assembly is the wire rope, which determines the type and kind of work the assembly can perform.

Wire rope lanyards are a standard wire rope product that have a multitude of uses. They are produced using the same process that is used to produce wire rope with the same numbering categorizing system. Lanyards are used to hold fasteners, hardware, or components to prevent loss of an item or prevent injury.

In many ways, wire rope is a form of machine with multiple moving parts. Normally, when we think of a machine, we imagine a device with a motor, drives, and gears. Wire rope does not have any of those components but does fit the definition of being a complex mechanism. It has moving parts that work together to move heavy materials and loads.

The main function of wire rope is to do heavy lifting, which is very dependent on wire rope slings. The type of sling is determined by the quality of the wire rope used to form them and whether several ropes have been braided or wound together.

Wire is the smallest part of wire rope but makes up the various strands. The composition of the wire can be steel, iron, stainless steel, copper, or other types of metal wires and are produced in different grades. The individual wires can be coated or bright, meaning uncoated.

Strands are sets of wires that are twisted together and are placed in a helical pattern around the core. The size of the wire determines its abrasive qualities with larger wires being more abrasive and less flexible than smaller ones.

The core is the center of the wire rope and serves as a support for the strands and helps the wire rope keep its position when it is under stress or bearing a load.

Lubrication is applied during the manufacturing process to reduce friction between the wires and strands as well as protection from corrosion and rust. The tight winding of the wires enhances the ability of the wire rope to retain the lubrication which is essential to its longevity.

The purpose of applying lubricant is to limit the friction between the cables to increase the useful life of the wire rope. In certain applications, such as space travel, lubricants can be hazardous and cause equipment to malfunction. In those instances, non-lubricated wire rope is used, which is referred to as dry wire rope or cable.

Of all of the products that are made from wire rope, slings are the most common and widely used. These looped wire ropes come in different varieties and grades depending on the type of wire used. Also, to enhance wire sling performance, several wire ropes may be wound together to form a sturdier and more reliable sling.

Flemish splicing is a method for repairing a wire rope and involves breaking the wire rope in half and tying it back together. In the Flemish method, the wire rope is tied back on itself and swaged down a sleeve over the unbroken wire rope to create the new eye.

Prior to placing the wire rope into the holding device used to shape the eye, a steel compression sleeve is placed on the rope, which will be used to secure and hold the eye.

Once the proper size is achieved, the unwound strands are rewound in the reverse order of their former positioning. If the wire rope has a right hand lay, it is rewound using a left hand lay. The opposite is true if the wire rope has a left hand lay, then it is rewound using a right hand lay. By using this technique, a friction mold is formed for the splicing of the sling.

Anti-rotational wire rope resists the forces of rotation by having opposing layers of helical stands. By winding the wire rope with oppositional strands, the wire rope is guaranteed to not unwind in clockwise or counterclockwise directions. The key to anti-rotational wire rope is to ensure that the outer diameter is static.

In the manufacture of anti-rotational wire rope, counter stranded filaments have vacant spaces between them. To make the wire rope anti-rotational, it is tightly twisted in the counterclockwise direction, which tightens the spaces between the filaments. If the wire rope is turned in a counterclockwise direction, the strands tighten around each other creating a spring force.

The tails and stray wires of the wire rope have to be straightened and properly formed before applying the compression sleeve. Once the sleeve has been placed, it is carefully checked to be sure that it is accurately engaged.

Prior to placing the wire rope sling in the swaging die, the die has to be thoroughly lubricated. Once the die is set, the wire rope‘s compression sleeve and the wire rope are compressed using several hundred thousand pounds of force. The swaging process alters the dimensions of the wire rope and compression sleeve to form a tight connection for the correct diameter for the sling connection. As force is applied, the compression sleeve is turned so that pressure is evenly applied.

There are several types of metal wires that are used to produce wire rope, which include steel, stainless steel, galvanized, aluminum, nickel alloy, bronze, copper, and titanium. Carbon steel is the most common type of wire rope material.

Wire ropes are made using uncoated bright wire, which is high-carbon steel. The type of steel depends on the requirements of the wire and its tensile strength and its fatigue and wear resistance.

Galvanized wire rope is treated with zinc to prevent corrosion and can be used in harsh conditions and environments. It is a cost effective alternative to stainless steel but does not have the same corrosion resistance. Galvanized wire rope is stronger than stainless steel of the same grade and size. Vinyl coated galvanized wire rope is easy to handle and flexible.

Stainless steel wire rope is corrosion and rust resistant. It is available in types 316 and 304 with 316 having greater corrosion resistance. Stainless steel wire rope can be used for marine applications, acidic environments, and other demanding conditions. It is produced with the appropriate tolerances and composition to meet the needs of the application.

Multiple strands of copper are braided into a round hollow shape, which is pressed into the desired width and thickness. Copper wire rope has exceptional flexibility, an exceptional life span and can be used as part of electrical components.

Bronze wire rope inhibits sparking and is corrosion resistant. It is made from preformed wire to ensure that it maintains its shape and does not unravel when cut. Bronze wire rope is abrasion resistant and very flexible with a crush resistant core.

Inconel wire can be used in applications that reach temperatures as high as 2000° F and is oxidation and corrosion resistant. It is non-magnetic and has excellent resistance to chloride based corrosion cracking. Inconel wire rope can be used with nuclear generators and chemical and food processing.

Titanium wire rope comes in several grades with grade two being 99% pure. It is easily formable and weldable. Titanium wire rope is commonly used in chemical processing and marine hardware.

For wire rope to perform properly, it needs to have proper care. Wire rope is an essential tool necessary to perform a wire range of lifting and moving jobs. It is important that it be handled, treated, installed, stored, and treated correctly to prolong its life and perform to the highest standards.

Seizing should be completed on both ends of the wire rope, which will protect it from loosening. If this is done improperly, the wire rope can become distorted. Wire rope that is properly seized evenly distributes the load.

Wire rope is stored on reels or coils and has to be carefully handled when it is being removed. To ensure excellent performance, the wire rope should not be dropped during removal. If the reel or coil is dropped or damaged, it can make handling the wire rope difficult and cumbersome. As the wire rope is removed from the reel, check to see that the reel is rotating as the wire is removed.

Wire rope is depended on for heavy lifting and is trusted to keep a load and people safe. As with all heavy duty equipment, wire rope must have a regular inspection schedule and be visually assessed during use.

Broken Strands – An easy way to check for broken strands is to run a cloth over the length of the wire. Broken strands that are found in critical areas, such as parts that pass through pulleys or sections that are regularly flexed, rubbed, or constantly worked must be replaced and repaired.

Internal wear – This can be tested by flexing the wire rope, which indicates if the interior has deteriorated, experienced fatigue, or become distorted.

For wire rope to perform at the highest level, it has to be stored in a well ventilated environment that is dry, covered, and not in contact with the floor. The avoidance of high moisture or damp conditions is an absolute necessity. While the wire rope is in storage, it should be moved regularly to keep the lubricant from wearing off.

Though lubricant is applied during the manufacturing of wire rope, it wears off during use. Lubrication is the key to the performance of wire rope because it helps prevent abrasion as the wires rub against one another. Relubrication should be applied after the original lubricant has worn off.

Wire rope is a tool and must be cleaned regularly as with any form of machinery. This can be accomplished with different types of petroleum solvents and a wire brush. Mechanical methods of cleaning can include compressed air or a steam cleaner. Once the cleaning process is completed, the wire rope should be lubricated for protection.

There are several substances that can harm a wire rope. They include salt water, brine, acid, various gasses, and humidity. To avoid the intrusion of these negative effects, when a job is completed and the wire rope is to be stored, it should be cleaned, lubricated, and placed in proper storage.

When wire rope is being removed from a spool or being spooled, the operation must be performed smoothly with the spool rotating at a constant speed and rhythm. This will help prevent kinking or binding.

When a wire rope shows a reduction in diameter, has broken wires, kinks, nodes, flattened surfaces, out of place outer wires, damage from heat exposure, corrosion damage, or the formation of unexpected loops, it should be removed and replaced or be repaired.

Wire rope is regulated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) as part of the regulations for cranes and derricks in construction as part of 29 CFR 1926.1413, which went into effect on November 8, 2010.

The inspection of wire ropes is on three levels: shift, monthly, and annually. Shift and monthly inspections can be completed by an approved operator, while annual inspection must be completed by certified personnel.

As with the shift and monthly inspections, the annual inspection follows the guidelines for the shift inspection. This inspection must be completed by certified personnel. The entire surface of the wire rope has to be inspected, with attention to:

Annual inspections can be excused if it is not possible due to the wire ropes setup or configuration or the location of the work site. It must be completed within six months. If any deficiencies are found, the wire rope must be repaired or removed. For some deficiencies, it is possible to keep the wire rope in use but have them regularly monitored.

Wire rope is a form of metal tool that is constructed of multiple strands of wire that are twisted and braided together to form a spiral design or helix.

To further enhance the strength of wire rope, they are grouped and wound together to produce cables, which adds to their usefulness as a means of support, ability to lift, and give structural stability.

The types of wire rope are determined by the number of wires in each strand and how many are in the rope, which is defined by a two number system with the first number being the number of wires and the second being the number of wires in each strand.

Wire rope slings are an important piece of  rigging hardware used in lifting and hoisting operations and  are commonly used across different industries. These slings connect the load to the lifting device and are available in a wide range of configurations that support a broad range of applications. These configurations include single and multi-part slings (such as round braids, flat braids, Tri-Flex and cable laid slings), grommets, single leg slings, multiple leg bridles, and a wide variety of fittings and attachments.

Wire rope slings are widely preferred for heavy load lifting operations, which are a part and parcel of activities on  construction sites, shipyards, marine industry and many others. It is an important rigging component in the manufacturing industry as well as it requires a lot of heavy duty shifting and loading of heavy objects. These loads may vary in shape and size depending upon the manufacturing activity they are being used for. The manufacturing sector is closely related to engineering and industrial design, but it also includes a wide range of activities such as production, packing and sales of finished products and many others. The selection of proper wire rope slings depends on the application of the sling in any one of these activities.

Wire rope sling categories are generally named after the design of the wire rope and how many wires make up a strand and how many strands are wrapped around its core: a 6×19 wire rope is made from 6 strands of 19 wires; a 6×37 wire rope is a 6 strand rope made of 37 wires.

Typically used in choker, basket and vertical hitches, the oval “eye” at each end gives the sling its name. The eyes are formed using a Flemish eye splice and are secured with a carbon steel sleeve. These rope slings are rugged and reliable and a very popular choice because of their versatility .

There are mainly three types of bridle slings available; 2 , 3 and 4 legged bridle slings. These are designed for general lifting purposes where they are directly connected to the load by hooking into lifting eyes or placing these loops over projections. Their design make them a great pick for handling loads with fixed lifting points.

Nine-part slings are particularly effective with heavy and large loads because the weight is distributed evenly amongst all nine parts of the sling’s body. The construction of a nine-part sling also allows for easy inspection of the wire rope, which is crucial when reusing the sling for multiple loads.

A multi-part wire rope sling works well with single loads of moderate weight . These slings are also made of braided wire rope that helps distribute the weight equally across the sling body. Multi-part slings are flexible, fairly strong and durable

Wire rope slings are  an important part of  rigging equipment and therefore should be picked with care. The use of inappropriate sling/s can  imbalance loading and lead to the collapse of the rigging structure.

Wire rope slings are widely used in the lifting applications and engineering industries for extremely heavy loading. They can be used on wire rope hoist, pulley and block, crane and winch pulling equipment at dockyards and large construction sites.

They are available in single leg or multi legs like the chain slings, however, the wire rope slings are more safety than chain slings for wire rope sling can still hold the load if 1 or 2 wires are broken, while the chain sling will fail for 1 link broken result to the whole chain sling failed.

Usually, we use a less flexible or a stiffer wire rope to assembly for they are more crush and abrasion resistance than a very flexible one since wire rope slings are used in a straight line for lifting connect with a master link on one end and a hook or hooks on the other end, need more load strength than flexibility.

Wire rope is often used in slings because of its strength, durability, abrasion resistance and ability to conform to the shape of the loads on which it is used. In addition, wire rope slings are able to lift hot materials.

Wire rope used in slings can be made of ropes with either Independent Wire Rope Core (IWRC) or a fiber-core. It should be noted that a sling manufactured with a fiber-core is usually more flexible but is less resistant to environmental damage. Conversely, a core that is made of a wire rope strand tends to have greater strength and is more resistant to heat damage.

Wire rope may be manufactured using different rope lays. The lay of a wire rope describes the direction the wires and strands are twisted during the construction of the rope. Most wire rope is right lay, regular lay. This type of rope has the widest range of applications. Wire rope slings may be made of other wire rope lays at the recommendation of the sling manufacturer or a qualified person.

Wire rope slings are made from various grades of wire rope, but the most common grades in use are Extra Improved Plow Steel (EIPS) and Extra Extra Improved Plow Steel (EEIPS). These wire ropes are manufactured and tested in accordance with ASTM guidelines. If other grades of wire rope are used, use them in accordance with the manufacturer"s recommendations and guidance.

When selecting a wire rope sling to give the best service, consider four characteristics: strength, ability to bend without distortion, ability to withstand abrasive wear, and ability to withstand abuse.

Rated loads (capacities) for single-leg vertical, choker, basket hitches, and two-, three-, and four-leg bridle slings for specific grades of wire rope slings are as shown in Tables 7 through 15.

Rated loads for a sling in a choker hitch are the values shown in Table 7, 9, 11, 13, 14, or 15, provided that the angle of the choke is 120 degrees or more (Fig. 2). Use the values in Fig. 2 or those from the sling manufacturer or a qualified person for angles of choke less than 120 degrees.

Ensure that slings made of rope with 6×19 and 6x37 classifications and cable slings have a minimum clear length of rope 10 times the component rope diameter between splices, sleeves, or end fittings unless approved by a qualified person,

Ensure that braided slings have a minimum clear length of rope 40 times the component rope diameter between the loops or end fittings unless approved by a qualified person,

Ensure that grommets and endless slings have a minimum circumferential length of 96 times the body diameter of the grommet or endless sling unless approved by a qualified person, and

Perform welding of handles or other accessories to end attachments, except covers to thimbles, before assembly of the sling. Ensure that welded end attachments are proof tested by the manufacturer or a qualified person. Retain the certificates of proof test and make them available for examination.

Do not use wire rope clips to fabricate wire rope slings, except where the application precludes the use of prefabricated slings and where the sling is designed for the specific application by a qualified person,

Although OSHA"s sling standard does not require you to make and maintain records of inspections, the ASME standard contains provisions on inspection records.[3]

Use damaged slings only after they are repaired, reconditioned, and proof tested by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person using the following criteria:

Ensure that wire rope slings have suitable characteristics for the type of load, hitch, and environment in which they will be used and that they are not used with loads in excess of the rated load capacities described in the appropriate tables. When D/d ratios (Fig. 4) are smaller than those listed in the tables, consult the sling manufacturer. Follow other safe operating practices, including:

Ensure that multiple-leg slings are selected according to Tables 7 through 15 when used at the specific angles given in the tables. Ensure that operations at other angles are limited to the rated load of the next lower angle given in the tables or calculated by a qualified person,

When D/d ratios (see Fig. 6) smaller than those cited in the tables are necessary, ensure that the rated load of the sling is decreased. Consult the sling manufacturer for specific data or refer to the WRTB (Wire Rope Technical Board) Wire Rope Sling Users Manual, and

Ensure that all portions of the human body are kept away from the areas between the sling and the load and between the sling and the crane or hoist hook,

When using a basket hitch, ensure that the legs of the sling contain or support the load from the sides, above the center of gravity, so that the load remains under control,

Ensure that the load applied to the hook is centered in the base (bowl) of the hook to prevent point loading on the hook, unless the hook is designed for point loading,

Before initial use, ensure that all new swaged-socket, poured-socket, turnback-eye, mechanical joint grommets, and endless wire rope slings are proof tested by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person.

Permanently remove from service fiber-core wire rope slings of any grade if they are exposed to temperatures in excess of 180 degrees F (82 degrees C).

Follow the recommendations of the sling manufacturer when you use metallic-core wire rope slings of any grade at temperatures above 400 degrees F (204 degrees C) or below minus 40 degrees F (minus 40 degrees C).

When it comes to using wire rope slings in or on your jobsite, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to make sure that your wire rope sling is ready for use and that it will last for years to come. For starters, be sure to designate a qualified person to inspect all of your slings, fastenings, and attachment each day before use for damage or defects. A thorough inspection of your wire sling should check for:

By regularly performing these inspections that check the condition of your rope, you’ll not only be able to give your wire rope sling the care and maintenance that it needs to work at its best, you’ll be protecting your entire team and jobsite from the potential dangers that can occur if a wire rope sling snaps during use.

Wire rope features many individual wires that form a strand. Multiple strands are wrapped around a core to create the wire rope. The amount of wires in the strand and strands wrapped around the core will determine the flexibility of the wire rope, as well as abrasion resistance for its given application.

Equally as important as the basic construction of the wire rope is going to be the diameter. That diameter determines the working load limit of that sling. Furthermore, when identifying your wire rope sling or choosing what one you want, your supplier has to confirm the sling’s:Length

The length of the sling is measured by the bearing point of one end to the bearing point of the other end. Also, when using a wire rope sling, it’s important to know the eye size.

With Mazzella 7-Part™ Wire Rope Slings, our specialists have found customers are confused by the component rope used and the finished diameter. Anytime you’re reviewing an inspection report or purchasing a sling, you want to identify the component rope. That will determine the finished diameter of the slings.

A rigger will actually break the wire rope in half, and then, tie it back together, or Flemish it back on itself. Then, we’ll swage down a sleeve over the remaining part of wire rope to create the eye.

Our specialists have found over time that steel erectors have preferred to use the hand-tucked eyes because of their ease of use. They slide under beams much easier than Flemish-eyed slings. Also, they don’t get caught like the knuckle of the swaged sleeve could.

Each tag must have the following information:Name or trademark of manufacturer of the slingIf repairs are done, the entity performing those repairs are required to put their name/trademark on the sling tag

Not all slings will have serial numbers or multiple hitch capacities, but they’re critical pieces of information for your field operators to have when they’re executing lifts.

When determining wire rope bridle, you want to choose the correct master link, or pear link, along with the proper size, so it can fit over your crane hook. Also, at the bottom of the wire rope bridle, you want to determine the proper components you’ll need to make safe, successful lifts.

Also known as grommets, you’d want to use these types of slings when lifting a capacity above the capabilities of an eye-and-eye sling. Endless slings can be used in applications where headroom is an issue because they can be manufactured smaller than an eye-and-eye sling.

This refers to the thickness of the wire rope strands used to make the sling, which can be specified in inches or millimeters. Diameter determines the working load limit of that sling.

Most wire rope slings are single-leg configurations, but multi-leg sling assemblies, often called bridles, can be ordered in double, triple, or quad leg configurations.

Based on your needs and types of lifts, you’ll need to know if the multi-leg slings will be connected through hooks or a master link. Also, you’ll want to know if it’s being thimblized.

Learning more about the different parts and terms associated with this product will allow you to determine if will meet the needs of your company and help you conduct safer overhead lifts.

Wire rope slings have been used extensively for years and were once the industrial lifting sling of choice. Wire rope slings, sometimes referred to as wire cable slings are more robust and durable than nylon slings and also have higher temperature limits.

Wire rope slings with an independent wire rope core (IWRC) can withstand contact and exposure temperatures up to 400 degrees (F). Wire cable slings with fiber cores should never be exposed to temperatures in excess of 180 degrees (F). Wire rope slings of all types should never be used at temperatures below -40 degrees (F). Wire rope rigging slings with fiber cores (FC) are rated at reduced capacities when compared with an equivalent size, wire choker with an independent wire rope core (IWRC). They are generally fabricated from 6 x 19 or 6 x 37 construction wire cable. The constructional numbers refer to the number of strands (6) that are helically wound around a core. The core supports the strands of the wire rope lifting sling and can either be an independent wire rope core (IWRC) or a fiber core (FC) made from hemp or sisal. Smaller diameter wire rope slings feature 6 strands with 19 wires in each strand. Larger diameter industrial lifting slings will generally feature 6 strands with 37 individual wires in each strand. The 6 x 37 construction is more flexible than the 6 x 19 construction, but not as abrasion resistant.

Wire cable lifting slings used by the crane, rigging and material handling industries are available in many different styles and constructions to meet your needs. Custom made slings and special order slings are shipped daily from our factory. The most popular wire lifting slings are Single Body slings featuring a 6 x 19 or 6 x 37 Construction, Extra Improved Plow Steel (EIPS) Wire Rope with an Independent Wire Rope Core (IWRC). These slings are sometimes referred to as wire chokers, Permaloc wire rope slings, wire cable slings, Flemish eye slings, single leg slings, eye and eye slings or eye & eye slings due to the loop or eye that is formed on each end of the wire sling.

There are different grades and strengths of steel used to manufacture the individual wires that make up the sling. The most popular for sling fabrication is (EIPS). Metallurgists continue to improve the tensile properties of steel with new, corresponding designations such as EEIPS (Extra-Extra Improved Plow Steel). Single leg, Flemish Eye/Mechanical Splice, Wire Slings provide additional security, superior to return loop wire slings should the swage sleeve become damaged during use. Single Body Wire Cable slings are available in 15 different types which feature different combinations of plain loops, three types of thimbles (crescent, standard and slip through) and rigging hooks. Thimbles greatly improve sling longevity by protecting the rope at connection points. We offer two types of single leg wire slings that feature a sliding choker hook that is placed between the sling eyes. Industrial lifting slings with sliding choker hooks make removal of the cable sling from the load, quick and easy. Type 14 lifting slings feature a lifting loop on one end and a thimble on the opposite end to engage the sliding choker hook. Type 15 lifting slings features plain loops each end. View the 15 single leg wire sling types available .

We will not sell you a sliding choker hook without a hook latch, but there are many that will! Stainless Steel Wire Rope Slings provide the sling user with improved corrosion resistance and are also readily available. Cable Laid Wire Rope Slings with a galvanized finish are also available. Cable Laid Wire Slings are much more flexible than equivalent sized, single body wire slings. The flexibility of industrial lifting slings that feature a cable laid construction is a direct result of the small diameter, aircraft cable used in the fabrication of the wire sling. Size for size, cable laid lifting slings are not as strong as equivalent sized, single body, wire chokers. Cable laid wire slings can be equipped with many of the same options available for single body slings.

In addition to our standard lifting slings, custom made slings are also readily available. Cable laid slings are also referred to as Ultra flexible cable laid slings, steel strand and E-Z Flex Cable Laid wire rope slings. Wire Rope Bridle Slings are available in two leg bridle, three leg bridle and four leg bridle designs. A master link is used to collect the multiple wire cable sling legs, while providing a connection point to the hoist line. Bottom “connectors” such as masterlinks or eye hoist hooks (with latches) are most commonly used to engage the load. Custom made bridle slings are also readily available.

In addition to wire bridles we also offer a complete line of strand laid grommets and swaged socket assemblies. Slingmax® Wire Rope Slings are as revolutionary to wire cable slings as Twin-Path® Extra, high performance fiber slings are to polyester roundslings. That makes sense, because both products are patented inventions from the mind of Dennis St. Germain, Sr. Without a doubt, Mr. St. Germain has done more for the sling, crane and rigging industries than any other. It all started years ago with the Tri-Flex® Sling which provides professional riggers with a great combination of strength and flexibility. Tri-Flex® wire rope slings provide substantial savings due to the materials used and the tremendous labor savings realized in the fabrication process. Tri-Flex® cable slings were also the genesis of T&D Ultra-Flex® slings which are used extensively in the power generation, transmission and distribution industries.

Gator-Laid® wire rope slings and Gator-Max® wire cable slings are the most efficient, heavy lift slings available. Both the Gator-Laid® wire slings and Gator-Max® lifting slings feature 12 parts of wire in the sling eye and meet all the requirements of the Wire Rope Technical Board and the United States Navy. Gator-Flex® wire rope slings and Gator-Flex® wire rope grommets are heavy lift slings used extensively by the oil and gas industries for both land based and off shore rigging. Gator-Flex® wire slings offer sling users the greatest flexibility available for a heavy lifting sling. Gator-Flex® grommets not only provide flexibility, but can be fabricated for applications requiring minimum sling lengths.

Like all of our nylon web slings and polyester round slings, wire rope slings need to be inspected on a regular basis to ensure the safety of sling users. Poor inspection practices can lead to devastation, injury and death. Please refer to the inspection and usage information that is available in our Rigging Resource Guide or on our web site. Read and understand the warnings that accompany all our products. Remember, ignore a warning leads to much mourning.

All wire chokers shipped from Lift-It have a heavy duty, metal sling tag attached. There is no additional charge for this as we have always felt it is our duty to provide robust sling tags. Others may use cloth or synthetic materials which sometimes come off the sling, before it’s even used! Others fill in the information with magic marker that is not so magic. The tag is just as important as the wire cable, the way the Flemish eye is fabricated and the way the mechanical sleeve is swaged. If a vendor wants to charge you extra for a metal tag, run as fast and as far as you can from them and contact the sling experts at Lift-It Manufacturing, where profit margins are not maximized by supplying labels that should be used on clothing.

While wire cable slings are more robust and durable than nylon lifting slings or polyester roundslings, wire slings are not cut proof. Wire slings need to be protected from damage like all industrial lifting slings. Only materials of sufficient strength, thickness and construction must be used to prevent damage. Do not use gloves or cardboard. Use protection devices that have been designed to resist the effects of cutting and abrasion. Wire Rope Saddle Protectors are readily available; Click Here

Wire rope slings are frequently used in hoisting operations across diverse sectors including oil and gas, automotive, construction, and manufacturing industries where people need to lift heavy loads frequently and that too in rugged environments. Wire rope slings are also commonly used in steel mills and forging operations and in the marine industry as well.

Steel Wire rope slings are used to connect the load, which is being lifted, to the lifting device and they come in a number of configurations that are supported by different types of attachments. Some of the commonly-used wire rope slings are single leg slings, grommets, single-part slings, multi-part slings, multiple leg bridles, and multiple leg slings. In the manufacturing sector, which is quite similar to industrial design and engineering, the objects that are being lifted appear in various shapes and sizes depending on the stage of production.

Steel rope slings are categorized on the basis of the number of wires that constitute a strand and the number of strands that are wound around the core of a wire rope sling. For example, a wire rope of 6x 19 dimension consists of 6 strands of 19 wires. Slings of a wide variety are used in the manufacturing industry and some of the most commonly-used wire rope slings are:

Nine-part Slings:Nine-part slings are meant to lift heavy and large objects. This is mainly due to the fact that the load can be distributed consistently over nine parts of the sling’s body. The nine-part design also facilitates inspection, which is very important if the sling is used multiple times to lift multiple loads.

Bridle Slings:Bridle slings, which are commonly available as 2, 3, or 4-legged bridle slings, are appropriate for lifting objects with fixed lifting points. These slings are directly connected to the weight by hooking it into the lifting eyes.

Eye & Eye Slings:These slings feature an oval “eye” at each end, which is what gives these slings their names. These slings are noted for their ruggedness, reliability, and versatility and are mostly used in basket, choker, and vertical hitches.

Multi-part wire rope sling:Multi-part wire rope slings can be used efficiently to carry single objects of moderate weight. They are recognized for their strength, durability, and flexibility and are made of braided wire rope that promotes equal distribution of weight throughout the entire body of the sling.

Wire rope slings are crucial rigging hardware, which should be chosen wisely. The deployment of unsuitable slings may jeopardize loading operations, eventually leading to the collapse of the rigging structure.

When it comes to using wire rope slings in or on your jobsite, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to make sure that your wire rope sling is ready for use and that it will last for years to come. For starters, be sure to designate a qualified person to inspect all of your slings, fastenings, and attachment each day before use for damage or defects. A thorough inspection of your wire sling should check for:

By regularly performing these inspections that check the condition of your rope, you’ll not only be able to give your wire rope sling the care and maintenance that it needs to work at its best, you’ll be protecting your entire team and jobsite from the potential dangers that can occur if a wire rope sling snaps during use.

Stainless Steel Slings, Fiber Core Slings with reduced Work Load Limits, Cable Laid Slings with galvanized finish and larger diameter slings are also available.

When wire rope is bent around a load, or diameter, the rope strength is decreased. The D/d ratio is diameter of the object around which the rope is bent (D), divided by the diameter (d) of the rope. D/d affects slings used in basket hitches and must be taken into consideration. When the diameter of the load is 4 times the diameter of the wire rope sling the D/d ratio is 4/1 and the sling efficiency is 75% of the Basket WLL.

Workers involved in hoisting and rigging must exercise care when selecting and using slings. The selection of slings should be based upon the size and type of the load, and the environmental conditions of the workplace. Slings should be visually inspected before each use to ensure their effectiveness. Improper use of hoisting equipment, including slings, may result in overloading, excessive speed (e.g., taking up slack with a sudden jerk, shock loading), or sudden acceleration or deceleration of equipment.

Factors to consider when choosing the best sling for the job include size, weight, shape, temperature, and sensitivity of the material being moved, and the environmental conditions under which the sling will be used. The following guide may be useful in selecting the appropriate sling:

Alloy steel chains are strong and able to adapt to the shape of the load. Care should be taken when using chain slings because sudden shocks will damage them. This may result in sling failure and possible injury to workers or damage to the load.

Chain slings must be visually inspected prior to use. During the inspection, pay particular attention to any stretching, nicks, gouges, and wear in excess of the allowances made by the manufacturer. These signs indicate that the sling may be unsafe and must be removed from service immediately.

Wire rope is composed of individual wires that have been twisted to form strands. Strands are then twisted to form a wire rope. When wire rope has a fiber core, it is usually more flexible but less resistant to environmental damage. Conversely, wire rope with a core that is made of a wire rope strand tends to have greater strength and is more resistant to heat damage.

When selecting a wire rope sling to give the best service, there are four characteristics to consider: strength, ability to withstand fatigue (e.g., to bend without distortion), ability to withstand abrasive wear, and ability to withstand abuse.

Strength – Strength of wire rope is a function of its size (e.g., diameter of the rope), grade, and construction, and must be sufficient to accommodate the maximum applied load.

Fatigue (Bending without Failure) – Fatigue failure of wire rope is caused by the development of small cracks during small radius bends. The best means for preventing fatigue failure of wire rope slings is to use blocking or padding to increase the bend radius.

Abrasive Wear – The ability of wire rope to withstand abrasion is determined by the size and number of the individual wires used to make up the rope. Smaller wires bend more readily and offer greater flexibility, but are less able to withstand abrasion. Larger wires are less flexible, but withstand abrasion better.

Abuse – Misuse or abuse of wire rope slings will result in their failure long before any other factor. Abuse can lead to serious structural damage, resulting in kinks or bird caging. (In bird caging, the wire rope strands are forcibly untwisted and become spread outwards.) To prevent injuries to workers and prolong the life of the sling, strictly adhered to safe and proper use of wire rope slings.

Wire rope slings must be visually inspected before use. Slings with excessive broken wires, severe corrosion, localized wear, damage to end-fittings (e.g., hooks, rings, links, or collars), or damage to the rope structure (e.g., kinks, bird caging, distortion) must be removed from service and discarded.

Fiber rope and synthetic web slings are used primarily for temporary work, such as construction or painting, and are the best choice for use on expensive loads, highly finished or fragile parts, and delicate equipment.

Fiber rope slings deteriorate on contact with acids and caustics and, therefore, must not be used around these substances. Fiber rope slings that exhibit cuts, gouges, worn surface areas, brittle or discolored fibers, melting, or charring must be discarded. A buildup of powder-like sawdust on the inside of a fiber rope indicates excessive internal wear and that the sling is unsafe. Finally, if the rope fibers separate easily when scratched with a fingernail, it indicates that the sling has suffered some kind of chemical damage and should be discarded.

Shock Absorbency - Regardless of the construction material, shock loading (e.g., excessive speed, rapid acceleration or deceleration) of slings should be minimized. However, it should be noted that synthetic web slings can absorb heavy shocks without damage.

Economy and Long Life – Synthetic web slings have a low initial cost and a long service life. They are unaffected by mildew, rot, or bacteria, resist some chemical action, and have excellent abrasion resistance.

Synthetic web slings must be inspected before use and should be removed from service if found to have acid or caustic burns, melting or charring of any part of the surface, snags, tears, or cuts, broken stitches, distorted fittings, or wear or elongation beyond the manufacturer’s specifications.

Choosing the right lifting sling for your specific needs can be a challenge. Chain slings and synthetic webbing slings both have their place on construction sites, but if you need a lifting sling that marries safety and reliability with raw lifting strength, wire rope lifting slings are hard to beat. These lifting slings are ideal for most construction projects.

If you need new lifting slings for your cranes, container handlers, or other heavy lifting vehicles, here are five reasons to choose lifting slings made of wire rope.

Lifting slings suitable for commercial or industrial-grade construction projects are rarely cheap, but wire rope slings can be more cost effective than most other options on the market. Wire rope slings are usually significantly cheaper than other types of lifting sling with similar performance characteristics, especially if you need a particularly long sling for specialized construction.

Compared to lifting slings made from alloy chains, wire rope slings are remarkably slender and lightweight. However, they still possess more than enough load-bearing strength to perform heavy-duty lifting and carrying tasks and are significantly stronger and tougher than polyester or nylon lifting slings.

Using wire rope instead of chain slings means you can use smaller, lighter slings to carry heavy loads. This increases the weight of the loads your sling can carry without overtaxing the crane or lifting vehicle using the sling. Less weight and bulk also makes your lifting slings easier and cheaper to transport and is particularly useful if you have limited storage area for unused or spare slings.

The complex, multi-stranded structure of a wire rope sling provides incredible toughness and durability, and a wire rope sling can last for many years with proper maintenance. Metal-cored varieties are particularly durable and long-lived; although fiber-core wire ropes are still highly durable if properly stored and regularly lubricated.

Wire rope slings are particularly resistant to abrasion when compared to webbing slings and other options, making wire rope slings ideal for carrying sharp sand or other highly abrasive construction materials. Metalcored wire ropes are also suitable for use with very hot or highly corrosive loads, so wire rope slings see extensive use in specialized industrial construction projects.

Wire rope lifting slings are also renowned for their versatility and can successfully perform almost any heavy lifting task you can imagine. They can be arranged into most of the commonly used lifting hitches, including straight, choker, and cradle hitches, and are flexible enough to contour themselves to the shape of the load they are lifting. This makes them especially useful for lifting irregular or unbalanced loads.

A number of specialized slings made from different types of wire rope are also available, so you can choose the best type of sling for the job you need to perform.

For example, large-strand wire ropes with steel cores have excellent strength and superb resistance to abrasion, while narrow-strand ropes with fiber cores are extremely flexible and very useful for supporting fragile or finished loads (such as clay roof tiles or roof-mounted HVAC equipment).

Eventually, even the toughest wire rope lifting sling will reach the end of its working life, but even then it can still be useful. Unlike most types of chain and synthetic sling, wire rope slings have several components that can be safely reused once the rope itself fails, including the hook and any attached master links.

As you can see, there are many reasons to choose wire rope lifting slings for construction projects. If you have any more questions, contact the wire rope specialists atWest Equipment Company Inc.

US manufacturing is growing again in the US as large industrial and high-tech firms rethink how products are made for American and international customers. When larger industrial companies grow, so do the smaller fabricators and machine shops that supply them. From the largest steel mills to the smallest welding fabricators, most manufacturers require overhead lifting equipment and rigging to perform their tasks safely, and Trinity Sling is here to help.

Automobile manufacturing continues to increase in the US. Both domestic and foreign manufacturers are lured to the US by the American skilled workforce, movement which, in turn, increases steel production at US steel mills. Freight trains and other heavy transportation production then experience a corresponding uptick. Each of these fundamental industries subsequently utilizes smaller companies to provide products, fixtures, and services. Throughout the process manufacturers use overhead lifting slings and associated rigging from Trinity Sling to assist in accomplishing the tasks securely.

The energy market is changing and growing in the US, as well. Many US power generation plants have made the change to natural gas from coal, requiring large retrofits of existing infrastructure. Manufacturers benefit from both the retrofit and from lower energy prices. Wind energy is also playing a more important role in the energy infrastructure. The huge blades must be fabricated and transported, and generators must be built and hoisted to great heights, all of which increases US industrial production.

These heavy industry and large manufacturers require heavy lifting capabilities to manufacture their goods. Overhead cranes used to move large loads down the production line require wire rope and crane ropes for lifting. Manufacturers also need the winches and blocks that accompany the cranes. All cranes, whether jib cranes, overhead cranes, or mobile cranes, will need the wire rope slings and wire bridles available at Trinity Sling to connect to the load.

Hydraulic fracturing has improved manufacturing demand, as well. Manufacturers continue to build larger and more sophisticated drilling rigs used for horizontal drilling. The number and size of the pumps used for fracturing continue to grow.

Once oil is out of the ground it must be transported. The trucking, railway, and pipeline services all benefit from the new-found treasure of domestic oil and gas. As the oil and gas industries ramp up production, most heavy manufacturing businesses benefit, as well.

Chain slings are an excellent alternative to wire rope slings for these and other manufacturing operations. Chain slings are durable against sharp edges, easier to visually inspect, and tolerant of high temperatures. Manufacturers may also need a more delicate sling for some items, in which case Trinity Sling recommends synthetic web slings.

All manufacturers are very careful of their safety records and are diligent in preparation for OSHA inspections. Overhead lifting may create hazards, the risk of which can easily be mitigated but which can be catastrophic should they occur. For this reason, manufacturers are very careful in maintaining their overhead lifting equipment and rigging. Regular inspections and recertifications of lifting gear are common to all manufacturer safety programs.

Trinity Sling can assist manufacturers of all sizes with safety inspections. On-site visual inspections as well as off-site recertifications may be recorded in InfoChip® for ease of tracking and documenting. All slings provided by Trinity Sling are available with InfoChip®-branded RFID chips to make inventory simple to maintain, track, and investigate at EOY or at any time using an internet-ready device.

Trinity Sling maintains the largest stocking levels among North Texas rigging suppliers and is situated for quick delivery on any parts on order. Standard items like shackles, clips, wire rope, and chain are stocked deep for quick delivery. Additionally, Trinity Sling supplies special-order products like spreader beams, custom hooks, lifting platforms, and fixtures from trusted manufacturers lik