In industrial lifting and material handling, both rigging chains and wire rope slings are widely used. However, their working characteristics, durability, and safety profiles differ significantly. Choosing the right equipment depends on load conditions, lifting environment, and safety requirements. This guide explains when to use rigging chains and when wire rope slings are the better choice.

1. What Are Rigging Chains?

Rigging chains are G80 or G100 alloy-steel lifting chains assembled with master links and hooks. They are designed for heavy-duty lifting tasks where maximum durability is required.

Best for:

High-temperature environments

Harsh outdoor conditions

Heavy steel structures

Construction and mining

Frequent or repetitive lifting

2. What Are Wire Rope Slings?

Wire rope slings are made by winding multiple strands of steel wire into a flexible rope. They are strong, cost-effective, and widely used in cranes and general lifting applications.

Best for:

Large single-point loads

Marine lifting

General-purpose crane rigging

Situations requiring long-length slings

3. Key Differences

4. When to Choose Rigging Chains

Use rigging chains when:
✅ The environment includes heat, sparks, or impact
✅ You need adjustable length slings
✅ The load is extremely heavy or irregular
✅ Continuous industrial usage is expected
✅ You need maximum service life

Example applications:

Steel mill and foundry

Construction beams

Mining machinery

Offshore rigging

5. When to Choose Wire Rope Slings

Use wire rope slings when:
✅ The lift involves a long boom or extended reach
✅ You need a cost-effective option
✅ The load has a broad contact surface
✅ Corrosion protection can be applied with galvanization
✅ The sling is not frequently shortened/adjusted

Example applications:

Marine lifting

Heavy cargo ship loading

Tower crane operations

Bridge maintenance

6. Safety Considerations

Regardless of sling choice:

Always follow the WLL (Working Load Limit)

Inspect before each lift

Avoid shock loading

Use edge protection when necessary

Maintain documentation for compliance

Conclusion

Both rigging chains and wire rope slings play essential roles in heavy-duty lifting, but they excel in different environments.
If your priority is strength, heat resistance, and durability, choose rigging chains.
If your application needs long reach and cost efficiency, a wire rope sling may be more suitable.

TOPONE CHAIN provides certified G80/G100 rigging chains, lifting chains with hooks, and full sling assemblies for industrial applications.