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Steel Chain Sling and Steel Lifting Chain for Heavy-Duty Applications

Published on: Sep  25, 2025 | Source: chen | Hits: 0

A steel chain sling or steel lifting chain is one of the most reliable tools for rigging and hoisting operations. Manufactured from quenched and tempered alloy steel, these chains provide unmatched strength, durability, and resistance to wear compared to synthetic slings or wire ropes. From construction sites to marine operations, steel chain slings are trusted worldwide for lifting bulky, irregular, and heavy loads.

This article explores the features, configurations, and applications of steel chain slings, along with safety considerations and selection tips. All products highlighted are produced by TOPONE CHAIN®, a global supplier of certified alloy lifting chains.


What Is a Steel Chain Sling?

A steel chain sling is a lifting assembly made of alloy steel chains connected to a master link at the top and hooks or fittings at the bottom. Available in single-leg or multi-leg configurations, steel chain slings can handle a wide range of loads and lifting conditions.

Advantages include:

High tensile strength for heavy-duty lifting.

Superior resistance to abrasion, impact, and extreme temperatures.

Long service life compared to fiber or wire alternatives.

Versatility with adjustable legs and multiple hook options.


What Is a Steel Lifting Chain?

The steel lifting chain is the fundamental component of chain slings. Unlike general-purpose chains, steel lifting chains are engineered to strict standards (EN 818, ASTM, NACM) and proof-tested for lifting safety.

Key features of TOPONE CHAIN® steel lifting chains:

Manufactured from G80 or G100 quenched and tempered alloy steel.

Marked and traceable with batch numbers.

Surface finishes such as black oxide, painted, or galvanized for corrosion resistance.

Available in diameters ranging from 6 mm to 32 mm.


Configurations of Steel Chain Slings

Steel chain slings can be configured for different load requirements:

Single-leg sling: For vertical lifting.

Double-leg sling: Balances medium loads.

Three-leg sling: For irregular load distribution.

Four-leg sling: Provides maximum stability for large or uneven cargo.

Configuration

Common Use Case

Stability

Notes

Single-leg

Machinery, vertical lifts

Medium

Compact and economical

Double-leg

Steel plates, beams

High

Balanced lifting

Three-leg

Irregular machinery loads

Very high

Distributes weight across three points

Four-leg

Containers, large cargo

Maximum

Most stable configuration


Applications of Steel Lifting Chains

The steel lifting chain is used across industries where reliability and strength are essential:

Construction: Hoisting concrete slabs, beams, scaffolding parts.

Mining: Transporting equipment, ore, and machinery.

Marine & Offshore: Handling anchors, ship components, and offshore platforms.

Logistics: Securing and moving oversized cargo.

Manufacturing: Lifting molds, dies, and large components.


Steel Chain Sling vs Other Sling Types

Compared to synthetic or wire rope slings, steel chain slings offer unique advantages:

Sling Type

Strength & Durability

Flexibility

Temperature Resistance

Service Life

Synthetic slings

Lower

Very flexible

Limited

Short

Wire rope slings

Medium

Semi-flexible

Moderate

Medium

Steel chain slings

Highest

Adjustable

Excellent

Long


Safety Guidelines for Steel Chain Slings

Always check Working Load Limit (WLL) charts based on chain size and angle.

Inspect chains and fittings for cracks, wear, or elongation before use.

Never exceed the rated WLL.

Use corner protectors to avoid damage on sharp edges.

Store in dry conditions to prevent corrosion.


Why Choose TOPONE CHAIN® Steel Lifting Chains?

TOPONE CHAIN® stands out among steel chain sling suppliers because of:

Nine automated production lines with annual output over 500,000 chains.

TÜV, CE, and ISO9001 certifications ensuring compliance with global standards.

Full range of G80 and G100 chains with customizable configurations.

Global supply capability with reliable delivery for construction, mining, and marine industries.

Competitive pricing without compromising safety or quality.


Conclusion

The steel chain sling and steel lifting chain are indispensable for safe, heavy-duty lifting operations. With superior strength, durability, and versatility, they outperform alternative sling types in demanding industries.

For certified steel chain slings and steel lifting chains, contact TOPONE CHAIN® today. With proven manufacturing capacity, global certifications, and competitive pricing, TOPONE CHAIN® is your trusted lifting partner.

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