Title: Thin but Strong: What’s the Real Lifting Capacity of 10mm Chains?

You might believe that thicker chains lift more, yet 10mm chains prove that size is not everything. This guide reveals their true lifting capacity—how a slender 10mm chain achieves heavy lifting, meets safety standards, and is used in industrial purposes. Let's examine myths and facts about 10mm chain capacity.

1. Load Capacity: Size vs. Strength

Most think "thicker = stronger," but 10mm chains use Grade 80/100 alloy steel to punch above their weight. Grade 80 chains (800 MPa tensile strength) and Grade 100 (1,000 MPa) outperform bulkier counterparts.

For example:

·A Grade 80 10mm chain has a working load limit (WLL) of 5 tons.

·A Grade 100 10mm chain boosts WLL to 6.3 tons.

That's why a 10mm chain—thumb thickness—can safely lift 5-6 tons (that's 3-4 cars). Size doesn't determine strength where material and design are involved!

2. Safety Rules: 4:1 Factor & Testing

10mm chains meet strict 4:1 safety standards (WLL = break strength ÷ 4). Engineers test chains to failure:

·A Grade 80 10mm chain breaks at ~20 tons, so WLL = 20 ÷ 4 = 5 tons.

But angles matter! At 60°, WLL is reduced by 30% (5 tons → 3.5 tons). Always lift vertically at full capacity.

3. Best Uses & When to Avoid

10mm chains are best at:

·Workshops: Lifting 5-ton engines or machinery (compact and easy to handle).

·Farms: Towing tractors or relocating irrigation systems (light but strong).

·Warehouses: Moving cargo short distances (avoids unwieldy thick chains).

Avoid using them for:

·Over 5 tons: Exceeding WLL can lead to stretching or breaking.

·Shock loads: Sharp drops add force—10mm chains can break.

Conclusion

10mm chains are "small but mighty": their Grade 80/100 steel and 4:1 safety regulations make them lift 5-6 tons, perfect for the workshop, farm, or warehouse. The secret is to lift vertically, stay under WLL, and not use fat chains when 10mm will suffice. Size does not mean strength—10mm chains are evidence!