When building a chain sling assembly, the master link anchors every leg to the crane hook. Selecting the right grade, whether G80 or G100, shapes both capacity and cost. This guide explains how the G80 master link serves as a proven choice for most industries and compares it with G100 options for demanding tasks.

What Is a G80 Master Link?

A G80 master link is a forged alloy-steel component designed to connect chain slings, hooks, and rigging hardware. It is part of the lifting chain ecosystem governed by EN 1677 and EN 818 standards. Each link is proof-tested, stamped with grade and batch ID, and matched with G80 chains, ensuring traceability and safe working load limits (WLL).

Key features:

Grade 80 alloy steel, quenched and tempered

Complies with EN and NACM standards

Temperature range –40 °C to +200 °C

Fatigue-tested for cyclic lifting

G80 Master Link vs G100 Master Link

Example: A G80 master link paired with Ø13 mm G80 chain may support a 5.3 t single-leg sling. A G100 master link with the same chain diameter may increase the rating to over 6.5 t, allowing smaller components for the same task.

Applications in Industry

Construction: G80 master links dominate due to broad compatibility and ease of replacement.

Mining and Ports: G80 links work well under heavy dirt, impact, and repeated loads.

High-cycle Lifts: G100 links suit automated plants, offshore rigs, and aerospace assembly, where lighter weight reduces operator fatigue and crane stress.

Safety and Inspection Guidelines

Whether G80 or G100, master links follow strict rules:

Wear limit: discard if diameter reduces by 10%

Distortion: remove if ovality exceeds 5%

Cracks, weld marks, or corrosion pits: immediate retirement

Compatibility: always match master link grade with chain and fittings

Inspection frequency: pre-use checks plus annual certified inspections

https://www.lifting-chain.com/grade-80-series/

Conclusion

Both G80 master links and G100 master links meet international safety standards, but they serve different needs. G80 offers cost-effective, reliable strength for most industrial applications, while G100 enables lighter assemblies with greater load capacity. Selecting the right grade means balancing cost, weight, and performance. For certified chains and fittings, always source from trusted suppliers like TOPONE CHAIN.