WIRE 

ROPE SLINGS 
GENERAL INFORMATION

Figure 1.

NOMINAL SLING STRENGTH is based upon the nomi-

nal (catalog) rope strength of the wire rope used in the sling
and other factors which affect the overall strength of the
sling. These other factors include splicing efficiency,
number of parts of rope in the sling, type of hitch (e.g.,
straight pull, choker hitch, basket hitch, etc.), diameter
around which the body of the sling is bent (D/d) and the
diameter of pin used in the eye of the sling (Figure 1).

Figure 4.

As can be seen, the decrease in rated capacity is dramatic.

Choker hitches at angles greater than 135 degrees are not
recommended since they are unstable. Extreme care should
Figure 2. be taken to determine the angle of choke as accurately as
possible.
SLING ANGLE is the angle measured between a horizon-
tal line and the sling leg or body. This angle is very NOMINAL SPLICE EFFICIENCY is the efficiency of the
sling splice. Any time wire rope is disturbed such as in
important and can have a dramatic effect on the rated splicing an eye, the strength of the rope is reduced. This
capacity of the sling. As illustrated (Figure 2), when this reduction must be taken into account when determining
angle decreases, the load on each leg increases. This the nominal sling strength and in calculating the rated
principle applies whether one sling is used to pull at an capacity. Each type of splice has a different efficiency,
angle, in a basket hitch or for multi-legged bridle slings. thus the difference in rated capacities for different types of
Sling angles of less than 30 degrees are not recommend-ed. slings. Nominal splice efficiencies have been established
after many hundreds of tests over years of testing.
D/d ratio is the ratio of the diameter around which the
sling is bent divided by the body diameter of the sling
(Figure 4). This ratio has an effect on the rated capacity of
the sling only when the sling is used in a basket hitch.
Tests have shown that whenever wire rope is bent around a
diameter, the strength of the rope is decreased. Figure 5
illustrates the percentage of decrease to be expected. This
D/d ratio is applied to wire rope slings to assure that the
strength in the body of the sling is at least equal to the
splice efficiency. When D/d ratios smaller than those listed
in the rated capacity tables are necessary, the rated
capacity of the sling must be decreased.
Figure 3. Choker hitch rated capacity adjustment. For wire RATED CAPACITY is the maximum static load a sling is
rope slings in choker hitch when angle is less than 135°. designed to lift. The tables give rated capacities in tons of
2000 pounds. Rated capacities contained in all the tables
CHOKER HITCH configurations affect the rated capacity were calculated by computer. Each value was calculated
of a sling. This is because the sling leg or body is passed starting with the nominal component rope strength and
around the load, through one end attachment or eye and is working up from there. Due to computer rounding of
suspended by the other end attachment or eye. The contact numeric values, rated capacity values for 2, 3 or 4 leg slings
may not be even multiples of single leg values and may
of the sling body with the end attachment or eye causes a differ by a small amount. This represents the state-of-the-
loss of sling strength at this point. If a load is hanging free, art technology and tables found in other publications which
the normal choke angle is approximately 135 degrees. When differ by this small amount should not be construed to be in
the angle is less than 135 degrees an adjustment in the sling error. The difference is generally no more than one unit for
rated capacity must be made (Figure 3). any sling diameter.

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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS
 
damaged during the proof load.
EYE DIMENSIONS are generally eight (8) sling body
diameters wide by sixteen (16) body diameters long.
Whenever possible, thimbles are recommended to protect
the rope in the sling eye. Eye dimensions for thimbles are
2 contained in table 2. Table 2 contains only dimensions for
thimbles used in standard single part slings. Other spe-
cialized thimbles are available. Consult your sling manu-
facturer for details.
PIN DIAMETER should not be any greater than the nat-
ural width of the sling eye. For any sized eye and type of
sling body, the maximum allowable pin diameter may be
calculated as follows:
Maximum pin diameter = (2L + W) x 0.2
Where
Figure 5. L = length of eye
When a wire rope is bent around any sheave or other circular W = width of eye
object there is a loss of strength due to this bending action. As the
D/d ratio becomes smaller this loss of strength becomes greater The minimum pin diameter should never be smaller than
and the rope becomes less efficient. This curve, derived from the nominal sling diameter.
actual test data, relates the efficiency of a rope to different D/d GRADE & CONSTRUCTION of wire rope for slings is
ratios. This curve is based on static loads only and applies to 6x19 generally accepted to be bright Improved Plow Steel or
and 6x37 class ropes. Extra Improved Plow Steel grade 6x19 or 6x37 classifica-
tion regular lay. IWRC rope has a higher rated capacity
than Fiber Core rope for mechanically spliced slings, but
the same rated capacity for hand tucked slings. This is
because when making a hand tucked splice, the core
(IWRC) of the rope is cut in the splice area and doesn’t
add to the overall strength of the sling. Rated capacities of
slings using galvanized rope depend on the method of
galvanizing. The sling manufacturer should be consulted
regarding rated capacities for these types of slings.

Figure 6.

MINIMUM SLING BODY LENGTH is the minimum

length of wire rope between splices, sleeves or fittings.
Generally the minimum body length is equal to ten (10)
times the sling body diameter. This allows approximately
one and one half (1 1/2) rope lays between splices. For
multi-part slings the minimum body length between splices
is equal to forty (40) times the component rope diameter.
Figure 7. For bridle slings with legs of unequal length, use the LENGTH TOLERANCE is generally plus or minus two (2)
smallest horizontal angle for rated capacity calculations. body diameters, or plus or minus 0.5% of the sling length,
whichever is greater. The legs of bridle slings, or matched
PROOF LOAD is a specific load applied to a sling or slings are normally held to within one (1) body diameter.
assembly in a non-destructive test to verify the workman- Tolerances on poured or swaged socket assemblies are
ship of the sling. All swaged socket or poured socket generally much closer. Tolerances should always be speci-
assemblies should be proof loaded. The proof load is fied to the sling manufacturer before the order is placed.
generally two (2) times the vertical rated capacity for This eliminates a lot of frustration and confusion later.
mechanical splice slings. The maximum proof load for
hand tucked slings is 1.25 times the vertical rated capaci-
ty. Care should be taken to assure that sling eyes are not

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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS

HAND TUCKED SPLICE Certain end usages may indicate the desirability of special
A HAND TUCKED splice is made by passing the wire rope splices such as the Navy Admiralty Splice or logging
around a thimble or forming an eye and splicing the dead splice. Splices made by these special methods may also
end (short end) into the live end (long end) of the rope. attain the efficiencies used in calculating the rated capaci-
Normally, each dead end strand is given one forming tuck ty tables where the rope quality and number of tucks are
equivalent to that outlined above. Development of such
and three full tucks around the same strand in the body of
the rope. One additional full tuck is made when splicing efficiencies should be confirmed by the sling fabricators 2
more pliable wire ropes such as 6x37 classifications. making such splices.
A “forming tuck” is made by prying two adjacent strands Serving or wrapping of wire rope sling splices does not
apart, inserting a dead end strand into the opening and affect the spicing efficiencies or rated capacities. Such
passing the strand under one, two, or three adjacent servings are optional, although unserved splices are pre-
strands in the body of the rope. The dead end strand is set ferred because they permit visual inspection of the spliced
or locked tightly. area.
A “full tuck” is made by inserting a dead end strand under NOMINAL SPLICE EFFICIENCIES are measured in
and rotating it one full 360 degrees turn around a strand in terms of efficiency (where efficiency = actual breaking
the body of the wire rope. The tucked strand is set or strength of spliced termination divided by actual breaking
locked tightly. Each subsequent full turn of the dead end strength of rope). This efficiency will change from splice to
strand around the live end strand constitutes an addition-al splice because of the many variable factors involved in
full tuck. producing the splice. Splice efficiencies given in table 3
were established so that these normal variations are
“Setting” or “locking” of a dead end strand is accom- accommodated. The design factor used in establishing the
plished by pulling the strand end in under considerable rated capacities further assures that the sling will lift the
force. A marlin spike is inserted in the same opening in the load even in those rare instances when the splice efficiency
body of the rope ahead of the tucked strand and is rotated falls slightly below the values given in the tables. Rated
capacities shown in this manual have met with the most
about the axis of the rope back to the start of the splice or exacting test, that of the test of time and use in over fifty
toward the previous tuck. This helps set the tuck. years of actual field experience.

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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS
ROPE SLINGS

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS for hand tucked slings are Eye or farmers splice. In either case, the splice is complet-
about the same as for any other type of sling. The use of a ed by pressing (swaging) one or more metal sleeves over
swivel on single leg lifts as well as free hanging loads which the rope juncture.
may rotate is not recommended. A tag line should always The returned loop is fabricated by forming a loop at the
be used to prevent rotation of the sling body. end of the rope, sliding one or more metal sleeves over the
short end of the loop eye and pressing these sleeves to
2 When the sling body of a hand tucked splice is allowed to rotate,
the splice could unlay and pull out, thus causing the load to drop.
secure the end of the rope to the sling body. This makes an
economical sling and in most cases one that will give
satisfactory service. A drawback to this type of sling is that
the lifting capacity of the sling depends 100% upon the
integrity of the pressed or swaged joint. Should the metal
sleeve(s) fail; the entire eye will also fail.
The Flemish eye splice is fabricated by opening or unlay-
ing the rope body into two parts, one having three strands
and the other having the remaining three strands and the
core. The rope is unlayed far enough back to allow the loop
or eye to be formed by looping one part in one direction
and the other part in the other direction and laying the
rope back together. The strands are rolled back around the
rope body. A metal sleeve is then slipped over the ends of
the splice and pressed (swaged) to secure the ends to the
Flemish eye splice. body of the sling. Nominal splice efficiencies expressed in
table 4 and in the rated capacity tables are based on this
splicing method. Splice efficiencies for other splicing
MECHANICAL SPLICE methods should be con-firmed by the sling manufacturer.
MECHANICAL SPLICE slings come in two basic types.
One being the Returned Loop and the other the Flemish

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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS
PE SLINGS

Notice that the splice efficiency factor plays no role in the The two procedures, while achieving the same end
calculation of the Choker Hitch rated capacity. This is result, differ significantly. It is highly recommended that
because as the rope passes through the eye of the sling in a all poured sockets whether they be zinc or resin, be
choke, the weakest part of the sling is in the body of the proof loaded.
sling at the choke point. Thus the splice being higher in
efficiency has no effect on the rated capacity, because the CABLE-LAID WIRE ROPE SLINGS
efficiency factors are not additive. Cable-Laid Slings are fabricated from a machine made 2
Rated capacities for single part, choker and basket hitches rope comprised of seven small wire ropes. The cable-laid
are calculated exactly the same as for hand tucked slings body is typically 7x7x7, 7x7x19, or 7x6x19 Classification
except for the nominal splice efficiencies. The rated IWRC. This construction makes for a pliable rope and
capacities adjustment table 1 for choker hitches also sling. These slings are used where flexibility and resis-
applies for mechanical splice slings. Minimum D/d ratio tance to kinking and setting are more important than
for basket hitches is 25. This larger D/d ratio is required resistance to abrasion. Since the rope is made up of many
because the Nominal Splice Efficiency is higher. smaller wire ropes, the slings can bend around smaller
diameters without taking a permanent set or a kink. The
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS are no different from other many small wires are susceptible to abrasion.
slings except care should be taken not to deform or dam-
age the sleeve. The rated capacity adjustment Table 1 for choker hitches
applies to cable-laid slings as well. Note the difference in
Stainless Steel slings which have sleeves made of a differ- the efficiency factor for calculating vertical choker hitch
ent grade or type metal than the rope body may experience rated capacities.
accelerated deterioration due to an electro chemical
reaction between the two metals. This is particularly evi- Rated capacity for a basket hitch is based on a D/d ratio of
dent in salt water or brackish conditions. 10, where “d” is the diameter of the cable-laid fabric.
Tolerances and minimum sling lengths are also figured
ZINC OR RESIN POURED using the cable-laid fabric diameter.
SOCKET TYPE TERMINATIONS
BRAIDED MULTI-PART SLINGS
While some people may debate whether zinc or resin
poured sockets are truly slings, they are generally included Multi-part braided slings or Multi-Parts as they are known,
in the sling category. This type of termination has tra- are generally hand fabricated slings which are “braided”
ditionally been the method for determining the rope’s from 2, 3, 4 and up to as many as 48 pieces or parts of rope.
actual breaking strength. All other types of end termina- Generally 4, 6, 8 & 9 parts are the more common. They can
tions have been compared to poured sockets. Their effi- be either flat or round and offer the ultimate in flexibility
ciency is therefore established to be 100% for all grades and and versatility. These are truly the heavy weights of the
constructions of rope. lifting industry. This book covers only the round type
slings. They snug up tightly to the load in a choker hitch
Choker hitches are not used as much with poured sockets and resist kinking and setting. Loads in excess of 4000 tons
as with the other more general types of slings. When such have been lifted with multi-part slings.
slings are used in a choker hitch, the rated capacity
adjustment table 1 applies. Nominal Splice Efficiency for multi-part slings is 0.70 for
component ropes 3/32” through 2” diameters. For larger
Rope assemblies with poured attachments are generally component rope slings, consult the sling manufacturer for
used as a straight tension member where the rope body splice efficiencies.
does not contact the load and is otherwise kept free from
distortion or physical abuse. In such cases the minimum Because of the multi-rope component construction, multi-
recommended design factor is 3.0. If the assembly is used part slings react differently than standard wire rope slings in
as a sling then a design factor of 5.0 should be used to a choker hitch therefore the nominal splice efficiency is
calculate the rated capacity. Rated capacities for these present in the equation. The adjustment Table 1 applies to
slings used in basket hitches are the same as mechanical multi-part slings also.
spliced slings and use the same D/d ratio factors. Rated Capacity for a basket hitch is based on a minimum
Length tolerances for poured attachments can be some- D/d ratio of 25, where “d” = component rope diameter.
what more stringent than other types of slings. The man- Length tolerances for component ropes of 3/8” diameter
ufacturer should be contacted and agreement reached and smaller are plus or minus 10 component rope
before the order is placed. Tolerance as small as plus or diameters, or plus or minus 1.5% of the sling length
minus 1/8” is not out of the ordinary for this type of whichever is greater. The legs of matched slings shall be
assembly. Specifications such as type of fitting, pin orien- within 5 component rope diameters of each other. For
tation, whether zinc or resin is to be used and type of component rope diameters 7/16” and larger, the tolerance
application should also be supplied to the manufacturer is plus or minus 6 component rope diameters, or plus or
when ordering these types of assemblies. Those who are minus 1% of the sling length whichever is the greater. Legs
inexperienced in the socketing process should not try to of matched slings shall be within 3 component rope diame-
fabricate assemblies without first getting expert training. It ters of each other.
is far better to leave fabrication of this type of assembly to Minimum Sling Length between loops, sockets or sleeves
the experts. The following socketing methods are general is recommended to be 40 times the component rope
in nature and have withstood the test of time. Slight diameter of the braided body.
variations to these methods will produce equal results.

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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS
SLINGS

GROMMETS ment to have at least three free rope lays on either side of
Grommets are a unique type of sling. They form a com- the tuck of a hand spliced endless grommet prior to being
plete circle and automatically double the number of lift- bent around a hook or pin five times the body diameter. To
ing legs. Several types are available, such as strand laid eliminate the possibility of confusion, this requirement was
hand tucked, strand laid mechanical, cable laid hand adopted for mechanically spliced end-less grommets as
well. Consult the sling manufacturer for smaller
2 tucked and cable laid mechanical. Grommets work well in circumferences.
basket and choker hitches and general applications will The same general precautions apply to grommets as apply
find them used in this manner. Another unique advantage to all other types of slings. However, it should be noted that
to grommets is that the load contact points may be rotated since a grommet is a continuous circle, the D/d ratio
or moved around the sling to even out the wear points. The becomes a very important consideration. The D/d ratio
only area that should not come into contact with the load is must be applied to the lifting pins as well as to the load.
the splice area. The sling manufacturer will usually mark Normally the lifting pins will be the smallest diameter in
the area of hand tucked grommets with paint to help the the system other than the diameter of the grommet. No
user more easily identify the splice area. loads should be handled on D/d smaller than 5 times the
Tolerances for grommets are generally plus or minus 1% sling body diameter. If they must, consult the sling
of the circumferential length or 6 body diameters manufacturer. Rated capacities covered in this section are
whichever is greater. based on a D/d ratio of 5.
A minimum circumference of 96 body diameters is rec- STRAND LAID HAND TUCKED GROMMET
ommended. This measurement is normally an inside cir- A Strand Laid Hand Tucked Grommet is made from one
cumferential measurement. The requirement for a mini- continuous length of strand. No sleeves are used to make
mum circumference of 96 times the body diameter for the joint. This results in a very smooth circular sling.
grommets and endless slings was based on the require-

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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS
GUIDELINES FOR THE RIGGER

Some Useful Guidelines For the Rigger

On the following pages are some useful tips to help the
rigger do his job more efficiently and safely. Prevailing
work rules and government regulations place full
responsibility for proper performance upon the rigger, so it
is his duty to be familiar with the condition and capability of
all tools and equipment used, as well as techniques employed.
One basic rule always applies: Always know…never guess.
Each lift may be divided into three parts, providing a con-
venient plan for proceeding:
1. The Lifting Device—Know its capability and limita-
tions, and its condition. When was it last inspected? If
in doubt about capacity, check the placard.
2. The Hitch—Here is where the rigger can exercise
ingenuity…but it’s also the easiest place to make a
mistake.
3. The Load—The weight must be known. But you must
also protect the load from possible damage by the
slings…and protect the slings from damage by the
load.

Type of Hitch Determines Choice of Sling

Before you select a sling for a specific lift, determine the

most effective hitch to do the job, protect the load, and
protect the sling. One of three basic hitches will usually
do the job.
Is the lifting device adequate? The type of hitch you select may determine the type of sling
Check the placard on the crane or hoist, and then answer body that will best do the job, as well as the length of sling
three questions: that will be needed. Lifting height, overhead clearance and
1. Is capacity adequate for this lift? hook travel will affect choice of hitch and length of sling.
2. Will it lift high enough? Choose a sling body type which will best support the load
3. Is horizontal reach adequate? while providing adequate rated capacity. The proper choice
will provide:
1. Lifting capacity needed.
2. Proper D/d Ratio.
3. Handling characteristics needed for rigging.
4. Minimal damage to the sling.
5. Minimal damage to the load.

Check the hook and reeving.

1. Are sheaves properly rigged? If multipart reeving, will it
support the load?
2. Is the hook the right size so sling eye won’t be distort-ed
when put over the hook?
3. Check for cracks in bowl of the hook, and for evidence
of point loading or bending to one side of 15% or more.

7
 WIRE ROPE SLINGS

Protect the sling during the lift with blocking or padding at Use blocking or padding to protect hollow vessels, loose
sharp corners or where the sling body would be bent bundles and fragile items from scuffing and bending.
severely. Remember that blocking becomes part of the lift, and
must be added to total weight on the sling.

Use a spreader bar between legs of a sling to prevent

excessive side pressure on the load by the sling during
the lift. When lifting crates or wooden boxes with a basket hitch, be
sure load can withstand side pressure as tension is applied
to sling. Use spreader bars and corner protectors to prevent
damage to contents.

When attaching a sling to eye bolts, always pull on line with

the bolt axis. When hitching to bolts screwed into or
attached to a load, a side pull may break the bolts.
When lifting a bundled load with a single sling near the
center of gravity, a choke is more effective than a basket
hitch to prevent unbalance and slipping of the load in the
sling.

Use a shackle in the sling eye during a choke to protect

sling body against excessive distortion. Always put shackle
pin through sling eye, rather than against the sling body—
since sliding movement of sling body could rotate pin,
causing it to come loose.
Some riggers will use a double wrap around the load, for
360° gripping of the load, to prevent slippage during the
lift.

A sliding hook choker is superior to a shackle or unpro-

tected eye, since it provides a greater bending radius for
the sling body.

8
 WIRE ROPE SLINGS

You can reduce the angle of a choke with a wooden block, Anytime a load is lifted beyond arm’s reach with a single-
or blocks, between the hitch and the load. This also part load line or straight eye-and-eye sling, use a tagline to
increases the angle between the two legs to improve sling prevent load rotation. If a wire rope is permitted to rotate,
efficiency. the strands may unlay and the rope’s capacity will be
reduced.
2

When rigging two or more straight slings as a bridle,

select identical sling constructions of identical length—
with identical previous loading experience. Normal Two basket hitches can be rigged with two slings to pro-
stretch must be the same for paired slings to avoid over- vide better balance for long loads. Be sure that slings can-
loading individual legs and unbalancing the load during not slide toward one another along the load when the lift is
the lift. made.

Use an equalizing bar with double basket hitches to reduce

tendency of slings to slide together, and to keep loads level.
By adjusting the hook point and using a come-along or
chain block to support the heavy end, the load can be kept
Single part hand spliced slings must not be permitted to level during the lift.
rotate when rigged in a straight, vertical hitch. Rotation
can cause the splice to unlay and pull out, resulting in
dropping of the load.

WARNING
Hand-spliced slings should not be
used in lifts where the sling may rotate
and cause the wire rope to unlay.

Proper Use of Cribbing

Incorrect

9
 WIRE ROPE SLINGS

Proper Use of Cribbing To turn from side (A) to (B) in 1 & 2 above, attach on
side (B) above the Center of Gravity and on side (D) at
the Center of Gravity, then lift both hoists equally until
load is suspended. Lower auxiliary until turn is complet-
ed; detach sling at (B) before lowering load completely.
2

Correct

To turn or reposition a load, either one or two lifting

devices may be employed. Always use a choker hitch or a
single-leg direct attachment. Never attempt to turn a load
with a basket, since the load will slide in the hitch, against To turn from side (B) to (C) in 3 & 4 above, lift balanced
the sling body—resulting in damage to both the sling and load at (D) directly above the Center of Gravity; then
the load, and possibly a dropped load. attach auxiliary at (B) and lift to desired position. Lower
both hooks simultaneously until side (C) is in desired
position.

One Hook Load Turning

To turn a load with one hook, attach the sling directly to
the load ABOVE the Center of Gravity. The lifting hook Turning with double choker gives good control, with
must be able to move, or travel, in the direction of the turn weight always applied against a tight sling body and no
to prevent sliding of the pivot edge of the load just as the movement between sling and load. To rig, place both
load leaves the ground. It may be necessary to lift the load eyes on top of load, pointing opposite direction of turn.
clear to reposition it after the turn is completed, and Body of sling is then passed under load, through both
irregular shapes sometimes will require blocking for eyes and over lifting hook. Blocking should be used
support during and after the turn. under load to protect sling and facilitate removal.
Lifting unbalanced loads when exact length slings are not
available can be accomplished by rigging a choke on the
heavy end, as right. Length can be adjusted before weight
applies, but once the load comes onto the sling, the hitch is
locked in position for the lift.

Two-hook turning is employed when it is desired to turn

the load freely in the air. Main and auxiliary hoists of a
crane can often be used, or two cranes can be used.

Center of Gravity of a rectangular object with homogenious

characteristics will usually be below the junction of lines
drawn diagonally from opposite corners. When a
rectangular object has weight concentrated at one end,
Center of Gravity will be situated toward that end—away
from the intersection of diagonal lines. To avoid an
unbalanced lift, the lifting hook must be rigged directly
above the Center of Gravity.

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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS

Kink Eye
Deformation
2

Dogleg

Doglegs, Sets and Kinks

To locate the approximate Center of Gravity of an irregu- When a loop is “pulled through,” it forms a kink which
larly shaped article, visualize it enclosed by a rectangle. permanently deforms a wire rope by freezing or locking
Where diagonals from opposite corners intersect will wires and strands. This prevents them from sliding and
usually provide a lift point near the Center of Gravity. adjusting, and reduces rope strength.
A dogleg is a “set” which occurs when a wire rope sling is
pulled down snug against a load. A dogleg usually can be
“rolled back” or turned inside out, and usefulness of the
sling restored, since strands can still adjust.
Eye deformation is ordinarily not deterimental to sling
strength as long as there are no broken wires or gross
distortion of the lay of strands. An eye has two legs, so has
adequate strength for the load the body can carry. A sling
should be retired when distortion locks the strands or
flattens the rope in the eye so strands cannot move and
adjust.
Rigger’s Check List
1. Analyze and Measure—Determine the total weight to
be moved as well as exactly how far it is to move and
how high it must be lifted.
2. Determine the Hitch—Decide how the load is to be
Overturning a heavy object onto cribbing, using one lift- connected to the lifting hook and how the sling will
ing hook and chainblock. To upend the object, chain- grip, or be attached to, the load.
block “A” and the sling “B” should exchange positions.
3. Select the Sling—In addition to adequate Rated
Capacity for the angles and hitch involved, the sling
body should be of the type and style best suited to
handling this specific load. Select a sling with proper
end attachments or eye protection, as well as attach-
ment hardware such as clevises.
4. Inspect the Sling—Make a good visual check of the
sling you select to determine if it is in good condition
and capable of making the lift. Refer to prevailing
OSHA and ANSI regulations for inspection criteria.
5. Rig Up, Not Down—Always attach the sling to the
load first, then attach it to the hook.
6. Check Everything—Before attempting a lift, take a
light strain on the rigging, checking to see that block-
ing, sling and load protection and all safety devices are
in place.
7. Stand Clear and Lift—Let the lifting device and rigging
do the job—don’t use brute strength to prevent
swinging or movement. Use a tagline, or tether, to con-
trol any movement. Keep all hands and toes out from
under the load when it is suspended.
8. Don’t Jerk!—Lift slowly and with a steady application
of power.
9. Put It Away!—After you’ve completed the job, check
the sling for any damage (If it’s damaged, red tag it
immediately or advise the sling inspector.), then return
it to the sling storage rack for safekeeping until next
usage.

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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS

USA Standard Crane Hand Signals

Use Main Hoist.Tap fist on Use Whipline (Auxiliary Raise Boom. Arm extend- Lower Boom. Arm extended,
head; then use regular signals. Hoist). Tap elbow with one ed, fingers closed, thumb fingers closed, thumb pointing
hand, then use regular signals. pointing upward. downward.

Raise the Boom and Lower the Lower the Boom and Raise
Load. With arm extended, the Load. With arm extended,
Hoist. With forearm vertical, Lower. With arm extended
forefinger pointing up, move downward, forefinger pointing thumb pointing up, flex fin- thumb pointing down, flex
hand in small horizontal circle. down, move hand in small gers in and out as long as load fingers in and out as long as
horizontal circles. movement is desired. load movement is desired.

Extend Boom (Telescoping Retract Boom (Telescoping

Booms). Both fists in front of body Booms). Both fists in front
Travel. Arm extended for- Swing. Arm extended, point with thumbs pointing outward.
of body with thumbs
ward, hand open and slightly with finger in direction of
raised, make pushing motion swing of boom. pointing toward each other.
in direction of travel.

Travel. (One Track). Lock the Travel (Both Tracks). Use both Extend Boom (Telescoping Retract Boom (Telescoping
track on side indicated by raised fists in front of body, making a Boom). One Hand Signal. Boom). One Hand Signal.
fist. Travel opposite track in circular motion about each One fist in front of chest with One fist in front of chest,
direction indicated by circular other, indicating direction of thumb tapping chest. thumb pointing outward and
motion of other fist, rotated travel; forward or backward. heel of fist tapping chest.
vertically in front of body. (For (For crawler cranes only.)
crawler cranes only).

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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS

Additional Signals for Bridge Cranes

Bridge Travel. Arm extended Trolley Travel. Palm up,

Stop. Arm extended, palm forward, hand open and slightly fingers closed, thumb pointing
Emergency Stop. Arm in direction of motion, jerk
down, hold position rigidly. extended, palm down, move raised, make pushing motion in
direction of travel. hand horizontally.
hand rapidly right and left.

Move Slowly. Use one hand to Dog Everything. Clasp Multiple Trolleys. Hold up one Magnet is Disconnected.
give any motion signal and hands in front of body. finger for block marked “1” and Crane Operator spreads both
place other hand motionless in two fingers for block marked hands apart palms up.
front of hand giving the “2”. Regular signals follow.
motion signal. (Hoist slowly
shown as example.)

between regular inspections. A rack will also save time by

allowing larger slings to be picked up and returned by
crane, thereby reducing manhandling.
Effects of Temperature
All wire rope should be protected from extremes of tem-
perature. The accepted rules are: Fiber core slings should
never be exposed to temperature in excess of 200°F.
Steel cored slings should never be used at temperatures
above 400°F, or below minus 60°F.
It is not always easy to detect when wire rope has been
damaged by heat.The most common visual signs are loss
of lubrication and discoloration of wires.
The best practice to follow is that if there is the slightest
suspicion that a sling was subjected to high temperatures,
it should be taken out of service immediately. If it is
absolutely necessary to use slings outside of the above
Temperature, Lubrication, Moisture Are Factors In temperature range, the sling manufacturer should be con-
Proper Storage sulted.
Care of Slings Lubrication
The amount of care and proper maintenance a sling Like any other machine, wire rope is thoroughly lubricat-
receives will go a long way in determining its service life. ed at time of manufacture. Normally, for sling use under
Following are guidelines which experience has shown ordinary conditions, no additional lubrication is required.
helpful. However, if a sling is stored outside or in an environment
Storage: Proper storage requires that slings be kept in an which would cause corrosion, lubrication should be
area where they will not be exposed to water, extreme applied during the service life to prevent rusting or cor-
heat, or corrosive fumes, liquids, and sprays, of being run roding.
over or kinked. If relubrication is indicated, the same type lubricant
Slings should never be left beneath loads or lying around applied during manufacture should be used.Your sling
where they may be damaged. All slings, when not in use, manufacturer can provide information on the type of
should be kept on a rack. Use of a rack minimizes acci- lubricant to be used and best method of application.
dental damage and allows easier monitoring of condition

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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS
WIRE ROPE SLING INSPECTION & REMOVAL CRITERIA

Basic Inspection Criteria For Wire Rope Slings This sling should then be destroyed as soon as possible by
The goal of a sling inspection is to evaluate remaining cutting the eye and fittings from the rope with a torch. This
strength in a sling which has been used previously to deter- will help assure that an employee will not mistakenly use a
mine if it is suitable for continued use. sling which has been retired from service.
Specific inspection intervals and procedures are required by It should also be obvious that a good inspection program
the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) and by will not only provide safer lifting conditions, but will also
ANSI B30.9 Regulations, and the responsibility for perfor- extend the life of slings and thereby reduce lifting costs.
mance of inspections is placed squarely upon the sling user Federal Work Rules Require Specific Inspection
by Federal Legislation. Intervals
As a starting point, the same work practices which apply to Government regulations are also specific on WHEN
all “working” wire ropes apply to wire rope which has been to inspect.
fabricated into a sling.Therefore, a good working knowl- Both ANSI Standard B30.9 and OSHA require that wire
edge of wire rope design and construction will be not only rope slings receive two types of inspections: a DAILY
useful but essential in conducting a wire rope sling inspec- visual inspection, and additional inspections where service
tion. condi-tions warrant.
But because wire rope is a rather complex machine, no Daily visual inspections are intended to detect serious dam-
precise rules can be given to determine exactly when a age or deterioration which would weaken the sling. This
wire rope sling should be replaced. There are many vari- inspection is usually performed by the person using the
ables, and all must be considered. sling in a day-to-day job. He should look for obvious
OSHA specifies that a wire rope sling shall be removed things, such as broken wires, kinks, crushing, broken
from service immediately if ANY of the following condi- attachments, severe corrosion, etc.
tions are present: Additional inspections should be performed at regular
1. Broken Wires: For single-part slings, 10 randomly distrib- intervals based on, (1) frequency of sling use, (2) severity of
uted broken wires in one rope lay, or five broken wires in service conditions, (3) nature of lifts, and (4) prior experi-
one strand of one rope lay. For multi-part slings these ence based on service life of slings used in similar circum-
same criteria apply to each of the component ropes. For stances.
this inspection, a broken wire shall only be counted once; It is required that these additional inspections be carried
that is, each break should have two ends. out by a designated person who must have good knowl-
2. Metal Loss: Wear or scraping of one third the original edge of wire rope. An accurate WRITTEN and dated
diameter of outside individual wires.This is quite difficult record of all conditions observed should be kept. Any
to determine on slings and experience should be gained deterioration of the sling which could result in appreciable
by the inspector by taking apart old slings and actually loss of original strength should be carefully noted, and
measuring wire diameters. determination made on whether further use would
3. Distortion: Kinking, crushing, birdcaging or other constitute a safety hazard.
damage which distorts the rope structure. The main thing How to Inspect
to look for is wires or strands that are pushed out of their
original positions in the rope. Slight bends in a rope Precisely how to make proper, adequate inspections is not
where wires or strands are still relatively in their original detailed by OSHA—yet it is in the HOW of inspection
positions would not be considered serious damage. But that the big difference between a good inspection and
good judgment is indicated. some-thing less become apparent.
4. Heat Damage: Any metallic discoloration or loss of inter- Inspection should follow a systematic procedure:
nal lubricant caused by exposure to heat. (1) First, it is necessary that all parts of the sling are
5. Bad End Attachments: Cracked, bent or broken end readily visible. The sling should be laid out so every
fit-tings caused by abuse, wear or accident. part is accessible.
6. Bent Hooks: No more than 15 percent over the normal (2) Next, the sling should be sufficiently cleaned of dirt
throat openings, measured at the narrowest point, or and grease so wires and fittings are easily seen.
twisting of more than 10 degrees is permissable. This can usually be accomplished with a wire
7. Metal Corrosion: Severe corrosion of the rope or end brush or rags.
attachments which has caused pitting or binding of wires (3) The sling should then be given a thorough, systematic
should be cause for replacing the sling. Light rusting usu- examination throughout its entire length, paying par-
ally does not affect strength of a sling, however. ticular attention to sections showing the most wear.
In addition to these seven conditions specified by OSHA, (4) Special attention should also be paid to fittings and
the following are also important: end attachments, and areas of the sling adjacent to
8. Pulled Eye Splices: Any evidence that eye splices have these fit-tings.
slipped, tucked strands have moved, or pressed sleeves (5) When the worst section of a sling has been located,
show serious damage may be sufficient cause to reject a this area should then be carefully checked against the
sling. OSHA criteria.
9. Unbalance: A very common cause of damage is the kink (6) Label or identify slings that are inspected.
which results from pulling through a loop while using a (7) Keep records of inspections that include dates and cor-
sling, thus causing wires and strands to be deformed and responding conditions of slings.
pushed out of their original position. This unbalances the (8) Dispose immediately of slings that are rejected.
sling, reducing its strength.
Disposition of Retired Slings: the best inspection program A knowledgeable inspector will also insist on proper stor-
available is of no value if slings which are worn out and have age for out-of-use slings—to make his job easier if not for
been retired are not disposed of properly. When it is deter- the good of the slings. Inspections are much easier—and
mined by the inspector that a sling is worn out or damaged probably more thorough—when slings are available for
beyond use, it should be tagged immediately DO NOT USE. inspection in an orderly arrangement, out of the weather,
away from heat and dirt.
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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS

Sling Leg Options

Standard End Fitting Combinations
To order sling legs, follow the criteria listed in pages 2-1 to 2-15. Choose the correct size from the tables on
the following pages. Determine the length needed and specify the end fittings required from the list of combinations
shown below.
2

Eye & Eye

Eye and Screw Pin Anchor Shackle

Eye & Thimble

Thimble & Slip-Thru Thimble

Eye & Hook

Eye & Thimble with

Eye and Open Swage Socket Sliding Choker Hook

Eye & Crescent Thimble

Eye and Closed Swage Socket

Eye & Slip-Thru Thimble

Slip-Thru Thimble & Hook

Eye & Eye with

Thimble & Thimble Sliding Choker Hook

Slip-Thru Thimble &

Slip-Thru Thimble

Thimble & Hook

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 WIRE ROPE SLINGS
1-PART SLINGS/MECHANICAL SPLICE
Single Leg Slings

EXTRA IMPROVED PLOW STEEL IWRC

RATED CAPACITY IN TONS

.RATED CAPACITIES BASKET HITCH BASED ON D/d RATIO OF 25

.RATED CAPACITIES BASED ON PIN DIAMETER NO LARGER THAN NATURAL EYE WIDTH OR LESS THAN THE NOMINAL SLING DIAMETER
.RATED CAPACITIES BASED ON DESIGN FACTOR OF 5
.HORIZONTAL SLING ANGLES LESS THAN 30 DEGREES SHALL NOT BE USED
.Rated Capacities shown apply only to 6x19 and 6x37 classification wire rope.

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