Lifting Slings

Lifting slings are flexible load-handling tools used to safely raise, lower, and manoeuvre heavy or oversized items during material handling operations. Typically used in conjunction with lifting equipment such as cranes and lifting hoists, these slings are engineered to withstand various tensile loads and are available in multiple configurations to suit different rigging scenarios.

They are manufactured from diverse materials, such as synthetic webbing, steel wire rope, and alloy chains, to meet a wide range of application needs across multiple sectors including construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, logistics, mining, and offshore oil and gas.

Selecting the right type of sling is critical to ensure load stability, operator safety, and compliance with local lifting regulations.

Types of Sling

Lifting slings come in various types, each engineered to handle specific load conditions, weight capacities, and environmental factors. Choosing the correct sling ensures safe and efficient lifting operations across different industrial settings.

Webbing Slings

Webbing lifting slings are fabricated from strong woven synthetic fibres, typically polyester or nylon, offering excellent flexibility and a lightweight alternative to traditional steel chains. These flat slings are non-conductive and suitable for lifting delicate or finished materials where surface protection is critical. They are resistant to mildew and many chemicals, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Colour coding allows operators to easily identify safe working load limits.

Wire Rope Slings

Constructed from high-tensile steel strands twisted into a helical form around a fibre or steel core, wire rope slings are used for lifting heavy loads in rugged environments. These slings offer superior durability, heat resistance, and abrasion tolerance, making them ideal for structural steel handling, rigging applications, and offshore lifting operations. RS stocks single-leg and multi-leg configurations to meet complex load distribution needs.

Chain Slings

Adjustable lifting chains, also known as chain slings, are used in demanding lifting applications that require strength, adjustability, and high temperature resistance. Common in foundries and heavy machinery lifting, these slings are constructed from alloy steel and are typically available in Grade 80 or Grade 100. RS provides single to four-leg chain sling assemblies, complete with safety hooks and master links.

Round Slings

A round sling is a flexible lifting solution made by encasing load-bearing yarns in a durable tubular sleeve. These slings are ideal for lifting cylindrical or irregular loads without causing surface damage. Their continuous loop design enables load rotation and load balancing, and their colour-coded sleeves offer easy working load limit (WLL) identification.

Hoist Straps

Hoist straps, often used interchangeably with heavy duty lifting slings, are engineered to handle substantial vertical and choker lifting loads. These straps are reinforced to distribute the load over a larger surface area, minimising point loading and reducing wear. RS offers flat and looped-end variants suitable for various hoisting devices and cranes.

Factors to Consider When Selecting a Lifting Sling

When choosing a lifting sling, consider the following:

• Weight, Size, and Shape of the Load: Ensure the sling is rated for the weight and is suitable for the load's dimensions and specifications.
• Environmental Conditions: Some slings are better suited for high temperatures, corrosive environments, or outdoor use.
• Type of Hitch and Rigging Configuration: The way the sling will be attached (vertical, basket, or choker hitch) affects its capacity.
• Surface Protection: Use slings that minimise the risk of damage to delicate or finished surfaces.
• Compliance with Safety Standards: Ensure slings meet local regulations, such as Singapore’s WSH guidelines.

Safe Working Load and Inspection

• Working Load Limit (WLL): The maximum load a sling can safely lift, as specified by the manufacturer.
• Safe Working Load (SWL): The SWL specifies the maximum load a sling can take while still remaining safe and operational in the long run.
• Inspection: All slings should be visually inspected before each use for signs of damage, wear, or missing tags. Slings with visible defects, exposed core fibres, or illegible identification tags should be removed as soon as possible. Regular periodic inspections and proper storage are also essential for safety.

Industrial Applications of Lifting Slings

Lifting slings are essential for handling heavy equipment, structural components, and sensitive materials. Their versatility allows them to be integrated into a wide range of lifting systems tailored to the safety, load-bearing, and durability requirements of different industries.

Construction and Infrastructure

Lifting slings are essential in construction for positioning steel beams, precast concrete elements, and heavy equipment. Wire rope slings and chain slings are particularly suited to withstand site abrasions and dynamic loading.

Manufacturing and Assembly Lines

In manufacturing plants, webbing lifting slings and round slings are often used to transport engines, fabricated components, or delicate assemblies between workstations, ensuring safe, non-damaging lifts.

Shipping, Ports, and Logistics

Hoist straps and heavy duty lifting slings play a critical role in loading and unloading cargo containers, lifting oversized goods, and managing complex rigging operations within port terminals and warehouses.

Oil and Gas Industry

Operations in this sector require robust lifting systems that can endure corrosive environments and hazardous conditions. Wire rope slings and adjustable lifting chains offer the necessary resilience for pipe handling, drilling equipment lifting, and offshore rig deployment.

Mining Operations

In underground and open-pit mining, chain slings and wire rope slings are widely used to manoeuvre equipment, ore containers, and support structures due to their high strength and abrasion resistance.

Marine and Shipbuilding

Round slings and webbing sling types are ideal for handling propellers, hull components, and precision instruments in shipyards, offering surface protection and flexibility in confined spaces.

The Leading Supplier and Distributor of Lifting Slings in Singapore

RS is a trusted source for lifting slings, offering a comprehensive selection to support diverse industrial lifting and rigging requirements. Our range includes products from respected brands such as RS PRO, Honeywell Safety, and JSP. We also carry essential PPE to keep you safe during lifting operations like safety glasses and fall protection equipment.

All products are available for online ordering with detailed specifications and datasheets. For in-stock items, RS offers next-working-day delivery within Singapore. For more information on ordering, lead times, and delivery fees, please visit our delivery page.