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How to Choose the Right Chain Sling for Safe and Efficient Lifting

Published on: Oct  24, 2025 | Source: chen | Hits: 0

Selecting the right chain sling is critical for safe and efficient lifting. With multiple configurations, chain grades, and end-fitting options available, the choice depends on more than just Working Load Limit (WLL). You must also consider load shape, environment, lifting method, and sling angle.
This guide explains the key decision factors and provides a practical framework to help you choose the correct sling for your application — based on international lifting standards and TOPONE CHAIN® manufacturing expertise.


Identify the Load Type

Different loads require different sling configurations.

Load Characteristic

Recommended Chain Sling

Straight vertical lift

Single-leg chain sling

Balanced 2-point lift

Two-leg chain sling

Irregular/offset loads

Three-leg chain sling

Very heavy or large loads requiring maximum stability

Four-leg chain sling

250122-Chain Sling (2)

Determine the Required Chain Grade

The chain grade determines lifting capacity and safety margin.

Grade

Strength

Typical Use

Notes

G80

Standard lifting

General construction & manufacturing

Most commonly used

G100

Higher strength (~25% more than G80)

Heavy industry, offshore

Lighter weight & stronger

G120

Specialized heavy duty

Extreme conditions

Less common, premium grade

If the lifting environment demands higher WLL with smaller chain diameter, G100 or G120 is the better choice.


Consider the Working Environment

Not all chain slings are suitable for all environments.

Environment

Recommended Material / Coating

Marine / coastal

Galvanized or stainless chain

High heat / foundry

Alloy steel (G80/G100)

Chemical exposure

Stainless chain

General construction

Standard G80/G100


Choose the Right Hook Type

The hook defines how the sling connects to the load.

Hook Type

Application

Grab hook

Chain length adjustment

Self-locking hook

Safety lifting / containers

Foundry hook

High-temperature or wide loads

Clevis / eye hook

General purpose rigging


Pay Attention to Sling Angle

Even the strongest sling loses capacity when used at a wide angle.
A 60° sling angle has SIGNIFICANTLY lower WLL than a 30° angle.

Rule of thumb:

The greater the angle, the lower the safe working load.

This is why choosing the right configuration is not just about weight, but geometry.


Certification & Traceability

A safe chain sling must meet global safety standards such as:

EN 818

ISO 3077 / ISO 7593

TÜV / CE certification

NACM standards (North America)

Full traceability (batch number or laser code) ensures quality and legal conformity.


Example Selection Scenario

Scenario:
Lifting a steel beam weighing 6 tonnes in a construction yard.

Correct chain sling:

Two-leg sling (because there are two lifting points)

G100 grade (for higher WLL margin)

Self-locking hooks (to prevent unintentional release)

30–45° sling angle (to maintain optimal load capacity)


Why Choose TOPONE CHAIN®

TOPONE CHAIN® provides a complete range of certified chain sling solutions with:

G80 & G100 alloy steel chain slings

Single, double, three, and four-leg assemblies

Custom hook and master link combinations

Full test certificates and traceability

OEM/ODM service for distributors and rigging companies

We manufacture both the chain and the final sling assembly — ensuring perfect compatibility and consistent safety performance.


Conclusion

Choosing the right chain sling is not a one-step decision. It requires understanding:

Load characteristics

Chain grade and configuration

Environmental conditions

Angle factors

Certified safety markings

By applying these criteria, rigging teams can ensure safe, efficient, and compliant lifting.

For professionally engineered chain slings built with certified alloy lifting chains, TOPONE CHAIN® offers a globally trusted solution.

Our chains are mostly exported to more than 30 countries
both in European and Asian markets.