Wire Rope Slings:

It is natural that one might ask this question. Wire rope slings are utility-oriented assemblies of wire ropes used for lifting hoists and rigging with cranes. These are generally made of steel wire ropes, which have the characteristic of end termination.

Wire rope is manufactured from several strands of wire that are twisted and braided together to form a spiral design or helix.

Once the individual strings are shaped into a solid, they become a single wire with greater strength because the individual strings equalize the pressure and have more ductility than separate strings.

To further increase the strength of wire ropes, they are grouped and wound together to form cables, which add to their usefulness as a means of support, providing lifting capacity and structural stability. A major factor in wire rope is the coating of the strands, which can be regular or limp.

With regular lay or right and normal lay, the strands are wound from left to right with the strand laid in the opposite direction. With the Lang Lat, the strings are wound in a single direction.

The structure and design of wire rope produce a final product that has superior strength, excellent strength ductility, and the ability to handle constant bending stresses as well as weather resistance.

How to Order Wire Rope Slings:

Refers to the tables on the following pages to select the appropriate wire rope diameter and number of feet determined by the required working load limit. Select the length of the assembly measured from the bearing point to the bearing point, excluding the master link.

Select one of the standard combinations listed below. We have developed the following Wire Ropes Sling code system to help you order these products: 114 637 I EEX12

1. 114 = Define rope diameter One to three digits 1 1/4″ shown in the example.
2. 637 = Leave blank for 6×19 IWRC, EIP construction. If other ropes are desired, enter 637 for 6×37 constructions or EZ for Cable Laid ropes.
3. I = Leave blank for Domestic rope. Insert an “I” for slings made using an imported rope.
4. EEX12 = Show end terminations or others styles. See the chart below or use the following:

Eye & Eye = EE,

Bridle – 2 Leg = 2LB

3 Legs = 3LB

4 Leg = 4LB,

Endless = EN Braids – 3 Parts = 3PEE,

6 Part = 6PEE,

7 Part = 7PEE

8 Part = 8PEE

This indicates that sling length follows.

Sling Lengths (Ft) One or two digits Refer to drawings on the following pages on how to measure.

Tolerance and Minimum Length Refer to tables for tolerances and minimum lengths. Wire rope square The chart shows standard rope classes for each type and size of sling. Specific rope constructions are available upon request.

Permaloc Wire Rope Slings:

Permalloc wire rope slings are made using the Flemish splice technique to create the eyes. Unlike the simple return loop method, which places 100% of its strength on the sled sleeve, Permalok slings have a reserve strength in case the sleeve is damaged in use.

#1. Promotes Safety

1. Reserve strengths – the integrity of eyes not solely dependents upon steel sleeves
2. IWRC resists crushing better than FC.

#2. Ropes Save Money

1. When specified, thimbles eyes protect wire rope from wear for increased life.
2. Good abrasion resistance for longer life

IWRC (Independent Wire Rope Core) Fibers Core Available at Reduced Capacities

1. 1 ton = 2,000 lbs. *
2. Minimum slings length when using standard eyes.
3. Note:- length tolerance – single part wire rope slings – standard length tolerance plus or minus two ropes diameters, or plus or minus 0.5% of the sling length, whichever are greater.

Hidden Tuck Hand Spliced Slings:

Hand-tucked wire rope slings, also known as hidden tuck slings, are made by building an eye and then tucking the tail of the wire rope back into the body of the sling. This splicing technique creates a stable eye.

These can be especially useful when you have concerns about the possibility of the pressed sleeve of a standard wire rope sling getting caught or trapped during your lift.

This is especially felt when hand-split wire rope slings are used in the bran hitch configuration. Hand-held wire rope pieces make excellent chokers.

#1. Promotes Safety

Hidden Tucks buries wire ends to avoid snags and injuries.

#2. Saves Time

No steels sleeves to catch under load.

Fiber Core

Multi-Part Braided Slings:

The addition of Vernons Lifting Products brings some new manufacturing capabilities to Fulcrums Lifting, including braided multi-part wire rope slings. Available in parts 3 through 9, these slings can be beneficial to your lift.

There are multi-part slings:

1. Flexible – Much more flexible than single-part wire ropes slings of the same capacity.
2. Snugs up and conforms tights to the load.
3. The design creates friction to hold the load and resists rotation.

These are greats additions to the ever-expanding line of lifting and rigging products available from Fulcrum Lifting. Orders can be placed at each of our locations. Contact your sales representative or internal representative to place an order or to learn more about multi-part braided wire rope slings.

#1. Promotes Safety

1. Wide bearing surfaces provide better load controls & balance.
2. Resists rotation, improving load controls

#2. Saves Money

1. Resists damage from kinking
2. Reduces load damage by gripping load better

6 Part Flat Braid

8-Part Round Braid

Do not exceed rated capacity. The sling capacity decreases as the angle decreases with the horizontal. Slings should not be used at an angle of less than 30°.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) you could include in your article on wire rope slings:

What are wire rope slings used for?

Wire rope slings are primarily used for lifting heavy loads in various industries such as construction, manufacturing, and shipping. They provide a secure and reliable means of hoisting and rigging with cranes and other lifting equipment.

What are the different types of wire rope slings available?

Wire rope slings come in several types, including single-part slings, multi-part braided slings (such as 3-part, 6-part, and 8-part), and hand-spliced slings. Each type offers different flexibility, load capacities, and suitability for specific lifting applications.

How do I select the right wire rope sling for my application?

Choosing the correct wire rope sling involves considering factors such as the working load limit (WLL), the type of load (shape, weight distribution), environmental conditions (temperature, exposure to chemicals), and the type of lifting equipment being used. Referencing load charts and consulting with a qualified rigging professional is recommended.

What do the numbers and letters in the wire rope sling code system mean?

The code system typically includes information about the rope diameter, construction type (e.g., 6×19 IWRC, 6×37 EIP), whether the rope is domestic or imported, and the type of end terminations (e.g., eye & eye, bridle – 2 leg, etc.). Understanding this system helps in accurately specifying and ordering the right sling.

How do I ensure the safety and longevity of wire rope slings?

Regular inspection, proper storage, and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the safety and longevity of wire rope slings. Inspections should check for wear, corrosion, distortion, and other signs of damage. Using protective measures such as thimbles and proper storage racks can also extend sling life.

What are the advantages of different end terminations like eye & eye, bridle, and endless slings?

End terminations affect how wire rope slings are attached to loads and lifting equipment. For example, eye & eye slings provide versatility, while bridle slings distribute loads among multiple points. Endless slings offer continuous support and are ideal for lifting cylindrical objects.

What safety precautions should be followed when using wire rope slings?

Operators should ensure that slings are properly rated for the load and application, avoid overloading, use proper lifting techniques, and inspect slings before each use. Following manufacturer guidelines and applicable safety regulations is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring workplace safety.

Can wire rope slings be repaired if damaged?

Generally, damaged wire rope slings should be replaced rather than repaired to maintain safety and reliability. Some minor repairs may be possible if performed by qualified personnel following manufacturer guidelines and industry standards.