2026 Catalog - Flipbook - Page 98
INSPECTION CRITERIA FOR CHAIN
The following photos illustrate some of the common damage that occurs and indicates the sling must be taken
out of service. For inspection frequency requirements, see the General Information section in this catalog.
Stretched Chain Links
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Lengthening of the links and narrowing of the link width. Links that do
not hinge freely with adjacent links are stretched and must be taken out
of service; however, stretch can occur without this indicator. This damage indicates the sling has been
extremely overloaded or subjected to shock loading.
TO PREVENT
Avoid overloading and shock loading.
Wire
Rope
Sling
Protection
Round
Slings
Web
Slings
General
Information
Inspection Criteria
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Bending usually occurs in only one or two adjacent links. Links will
have an irregular shape when compared to other links.
TO PREVENT
Bent links are usually the result of the chain going around the sharp edge of a load during a lift. Load edges
must be padded to protect both chain and load.
Weld Spatter
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Metallic bumps on any link of chain.
TO PREVENT
The heat from weld spatter can adversely a昀昀ect
the strength of a chain link. Slings must be
shielded from welding operations.
Gauged Chain Links
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Indentations on an otherwise smooth link
surface.
TO PREVENT
Gouging of links is usually caused by heavy
loads being dragged over or dropped onto the
chain. Protect sling from these situations.
Lifting
Devices
Plate
Clamps
Hoist
Rings
Lift-All
Hoists
Cargo
Control
Mesh
Slings
Rigging
Hardware
Chain
Slings
Bent Chain Links
Scan and learn more about chain sling inspection criteria.
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