Strengths and Uses of Webbing Slings

Strengths and Uses of Webbing Slings

Webbing slings are designed to stand up to harsh work conditions. However, even with this level of durability they are bound to get damaged from time to time.

When a webbing sling shows signs of damage such as frayed fibers or disoriented yarn surfaces it is best to remove it from use and consult with a qualified person for recommended inspection intervals.

Strength

Webbing slings offer a combination of strengths that are hard to beat. These slings can be shaped around loads in a basket hitch, which is ideal for odd-shaped cargo, and they’re often outfitted with hardware for extra security.

Nylon and polyester are the most webbing sling common webbing sling materials, but there are other options for specific applications. Nylon slings aren’t affected by grease or oil and can handle acid, but they’re not suitable for bleaching agents or temperatures over 194°F. Polyester is better able to assist in acidic environments but shouldn’t be used near alkalis.

All webbing slings should be inspected regularly to make sure they’re still strong and secure. They should be free of sharp edges or damage and all hardware must be attached securely. They should also be stored properly to keep them safe from UV degradation and other environmental hazards. They should also be tagged with a color code and capacity rating, and users should be trained in the proper selection, inspection, effects on personnel, and rigging practices. This helps ensure that these slings are rigged properly and don’t exceed their rated load capacities.

Durability

Webbing slings are made of synthetic fibers such as nylon and polyester. They are flexible and affordable to use, and they can mold to the shape of the load. They are also durable enough to withstand rough environments and heavy loads.

It is important to keep webbing slings clean to avoid damage. Never clean them in a solvent tank, and do not put them in contact with chemicals that could affect their load capacity or durability. Keep them away from UV light, which can cause degradation. Also, be careful of acid damage, which can be spotted by distortion or charring. Cuts are another common sign of damage, which can be caused by excessive tension or sharp-edged loads. Look for fuzzy-looking webbing yarn to identify tensile damage.

Nylon web slings are also sensitive to certain chemicals, such as bleaching agents and acids. Users should consult the sling manufacturer for specific chemical resistance data for their slings.

Chemical Resistance

Webbing slings are made from different materials and each type of webbing has varying chemical resistance properties. The best option is to consult with a qualified person when choosing a sling material for a specific application or in and around chemicals.

Nylon web slings do not negatively react with grease or oil and they are resistant to aldehydes and strong alkalis. However, they are damaged by acids and should never be used in acidic environments or near chemicals that are bleaching agents. The rated capacity of nylon and polyester webbings is significantly reduced by elevated temperatures.

Properly storing and maintaining webbing slings will help extend their lifespan. Regular maintenance will also give you a good idea of when the equipment needs to be replaced or repaired so you can plan accordingly.

Ease of Use

Compared to wire ropes, webbing slings are much easier to handle. They are also lightweight and flexible which makes them ideal for the carriage function of lifting equipment, loads or cargo. They are commonly used in the transport industry. They can be shaped into a basket hitch and are often outfitted with hardware such as hooks to enhance their functionality.

Webbing slings are suitable for use in environments that aren’t too harsh on their materials, but it’s still recommended to consult the sling manufacturer or a qualified person before using them in and around chemically damaging situations. Also, it’s important to never shock load a webbing sling by quickly accelerating or decelerating the load. This can overload the sling causing a sudden loss of tension which can result in severe injury or death.

Polyester webbing slings aren’t affected by acid, but they are susceptible to alkali’s. You should avoid putting them near sea water, baking soda, bleaches and lyes. They are also more susceptible to heat damage and will lose up to 15% of their SWL when they get wet.

Minimal Maintenance

Like all lifting equipment, webbing slings require regular inspection to ensure that they’re in good condition. A qualified person will inspect them for damage, deterioration or degradation that could compromise the integrity of the sling and cause injury to workers or damage loads.

Webbing slings are ideal for use in applications where other lifting equipment isn’t available, Webbing Sling Manufacturer such as a crane or hoist. They’re also excellent for securing a load during transport. They’re less expensive than chain and wire ropes and can be more quickly inspected and repaired.

Webbing slings should be retired from service if they show signs of heat, chemical or ultraviolet/sunlight degradation. They’re prone to heat damage and shouldn’t be used in environments with temperatures greater than 194 degrees F or lower than minus 40 degrees F. Similarly, they’re not suited for environments exposed to acids or bleaches. Nylon web slings aren’t susceptible to acid damage, but polyester and polypropylene are. Consult the sling manufacturer for guidance on proper retirement criteria.