Uses and types of synthetic slings

Working with synthetic slings? Find out about their benefits and limitations, different types of slings and their working load limits.

Synthetic round or flat web slings are used to protect a load from being damaged.

Examples of these loads are:

• boats
• painted surfaces
• machined surfaces
• fragile loads
• timber.

Benefits of synthetic slings

Synthetic round or flat web slings have the following benefits:

• they cradle the load with a greater contact surface
• are lighter in weight than chain slings
• are easier to be moved and stored.

Limitations of synthetic slings

Synthetic slings may be more prone to physical and environmental damage than some other types of slings. For example, sharp edges and hot surfaces can melt the polyester material.

The radius of end fittings shall be no less than the compressed thickness of a Roundsling measured under hand tension. The interface between the sling and the end fitting should not compromise the Working Load Limit by way of overcrowding or interface contact area.

Types of synthetic slings

Note: All slings should be inspected before each load being lifted.

Flat web slings

Flat web slings range in width from 50mm to 300mm standard. They provide stability and balance to loads.

Synthetic flat web slings

Synthetic round slings

Endless round slings are excellent for choke hitching loads and providing connections to other equipment such as:

• serial hoist
• winches
• anchorages.

Synthetic round slings

Working load limits for synthetic slings

Australian and international standards

A working load limit (WLL) is the maximum you can lift in a straight/direct configuration. It must never be exceeded.

The Working Load Limit and colour code for synthetic round and flat web slings are matched to the Australian and International standards from 1 tonne to 10 tonne or greater.

The WLL may be derated (reduced) under certain conditions. This applies to all lifting slings. This chart explains what happens when you change how a synthetic sling is used:

Working load limits of synthetic slings

The methods of lifting for synthetic slings

Working load limit tag warnings

The following list of warnings should be provided as a minimum on WLL tags in English:

• consult sling manufacturer or supplier for configurations not shown on the sling tag or a relevant load chart
• do not use any sling that does not have a tag
• inspect sling for damage before each use
• do not use sling if there is any sign of a cut cover, snagging, heat or chemical damage, excessive wear, damaged seams, any other defects, presence of grit or abrasive materials
• do not tie knots in sling
• protect sling from sharp edges of load (such as steel sections)
• do not expose sling to temperatures above 100 degrees Celsius (safe maximum temperature provided by manufacturer)
• do not allow abrasive or other damaging grit to penetrate the fibres
• keep away from acids, alkalis or compounds as directed by the manufacturer
• consult with manufacturer's recommendations before exposing a sling to a chemical environment.