Round slings are essential tools for handling heavy loads. This guide will introduce the basics of round slings and help you choose the right type for your needs.
What are Round Slings?
Round slings are versatile lifting tools designed for heavy loads with minimal damage. They are durable and easy to use, making them ideal for hoisting and transporting.
They feature a unique construction that combines flexibility with strength, making them popular in construction, manufacturing, and shipping industries.
You can find round slings in two main configurations:
- Endless (continuous loop): more common
- Eye-and-eye (with formed lifting points)
What are Round Slings Used for?
Round lifting slings can handle various load types while protecting both the item being lifted and the equipment itself, serving multiple purposes across different industries.
Round slings excel at lifting and moving heavy objects in construction sites. Their gentle grip prevents edge damage while maintaining necessary strength.
The entertainment industry relies on round slings for rigging lighting, sound equipment, and stage elements. Their low-profile design makes them less visible during performances.
In manufacturing, round slings can be used to handle finished products that require careful movement without surface damage. Many manufacturers use color-coded slings to quickly identify weight capacities.
The shipping industry utilizes round slings for loading and unloading cargo. Their flexibility and suitability for delicate loads make them valuable for varied shipments.
Oil and gas companies prefer round slings for moving equipment in challenging environments where durability matters. Their synthetic materials resist many chemicals and environmental factors.
Advantages of Round Slings
- Lightweight & Flexible
Made from synthetic materials like polyester, offering 1/5th the weight of chain slings
Easily conform to load shapes (e.g., pipes, machinery) without needing custom rigging
Can be used in vertical, basket, choker, or multi-leg configurations
- Load Protection
Non-abrasive surface prevents damage to fragile loads (e.g., polished metals, painted surfaces)
No sharp edges or metal-to-metal contact risks
- Chemical/Environmental Resistance
Resistant to UV degradation, oil, grease, and mild chemicals (when using high-quality polyester)
Withstand extreme conditions
- Cost-Effective
30-50% cheaper upfront than wire rope or chain slings
Reduced long-term storage/transport costs due to lightweight design
Limitations of Round Slings
- Material Limitations
Susceptible to abrasion damage from sharp edges (requires edge protection sleeves)
- Load Monitoring Required
1.5:1 to 2:1 safety factor (vs. 4:1 for chain slings) demands precise load calculations
Elongates up to 5% under load (critical in precision lifting applications)
- Inspection Challenges
Internal damage can be hidden between fibers – requires tactile inspections along entire length
OSHA 1910.184 mandates daily visual checks and documented monthly inspections
- Hitch Sensitivity
Capacity reduction up to 30% in choke hitch configurations
Improper angles in multi-leg arrangements can create dangerous load imbalances
Safety and Usage Guidelines
Round slings require proper handling and regular inspection to ensure they remain safe for lifting operations. Following the right guidelines can prevent accidents and extend the life of your equipment.
Inspection and Maintenance
Pre-Use Inspection: Always inspect your round slings before each use. Look for signs of damage like cuts, tears, holes, or snags in the cover fabric. Check for any visible core fibers, which indicate the protective cover has been compromised.
Damage Indicators: Heat damage appears as melted or hardened areas, while chemical damage may show as discoloration or brittle spots. Either condition means your sling is unsafe to use.
Maintenance Tips:
- Do not attempt to wash or scrub your round slings, as this can cause mechanical or chemical damage that reduces strength.
- If they get wet, allow them to dry completely before storage.
- Store your slings in a dry, clean area away from direct sunlight.
- Keep them off the ground and away from chemicals, heat sources, and sharp objects.
Proper Handling Techniques
Protect from Damage: Round slings must be protected from cuts and damage when used around corners, edges, or protrusions. Use corner protectors or padding on any edge that isn’t smooth or well-rounded.
Avoid Stress Concentration: Avoid twisting, kinking, or knotting your slings. These conditions create uneven stress that can lead to failure.
Capacity Limits: Never exceed the rated capacity of your sling. The weight limit depends on how you’re using it—straight lift, basket hitch, or choker configuration.
Safety During Handling: Keep your hands and body away from pinch points when positioning slings. Once tension begins to build, never place your body between the sling and the load.
How to Choose the Right Round Slings?
Picking the right round sling for your lifting needs is important for safety and efficiency. Here are key factors to consider when making your selection.
Material Considerations
The material makeup of your lifting round slings directly impacts their performance, safety, and longevity. Choosing the right materials ensures your slings can handle specific environments and load types effectively.
| Material | Strength | Stretch | Chemical Resistance | UV Resistance | Cost |
| Polyester | Excellent | Minimal (~3%) | Good | Good | Medium |
| Nylon | Excellent | High (~8-10%) | Poor (vulnerable to acids) | Good | Medium |
| Kevlar | Superior | Minimal | Excellent | Excellent | High |
| Dyneema | Superior | Minimal | Excellent | Excellent | High |
Load Capacity
Working load limit (WLL) is the maximum weight a sling can safely lift. Always check the tag on your round sling to verify its WLL before using it.
Remember that the weight of your load is just the starting point. You must also consider:
- Design factor: Round slings typically have a design factor of 5:1, meaning they’re made to handle 5 times their rated capacity before breaking.
- Load distribution: Uneven loads create additional stress.
- Dynamic loading: Sudden movements can multiply forces on the sling.
Consider using a sling with a higher capacity than your minimum requirements to provide a safety buffer.
Sling Length
Choosing the right length for your round sling is crucial for safe lifting operations.
When measuring needed length, consider:
- Circumference of the load: Measure completely around the object
- Connecting points: Add extra length for attachment to hooks or other hardware
- Choker configurations: Add approximately 20% more length than the load circumference
The sling’s length also affects the flexibility and maneuverability during lifting operations.
Temperature considerations
- Polyester slings: Best for temps between -40°F to 194°F
- Nylon slings: Can handle up to 180°F but stretch more
- High-performance slings: Special materials for extreme temperatures
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right round sling capacity for my lifting task?
Always select a sling with a working load limit (WLL) that exceeds your load weight. Factor in a safety margin of at least 20% above your load weight.
Consider the lifting angle when calculating capacity. Sling capacity decreases as the angle between the sling legs increases. Check the manufacturer’s tag on the sling to verify its WLL before use.
Can you explain the differences between round slings and web slings?
Round slings are more flexible than web slings, allowing them to conform better to load shapes while distributing weight evenly.
Web slings are flat straps made from nylon or polyester webbing. They tend to be less expensive than round slings but may not handle edge contact as well.
How long does a round sling last?
The lifespan of a round sling typically ranges from 2 to 5 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and environmental conditions. Regular inspection and proper care can extend its life.
