Hoist chain is steel chain made for lifting, with a known grade and a load rating set by the manufacturer. This category covers lifting chain, one, two, three and four-leg chain slings, and G80 and G100 sling fittings.
We send the model list and current prices for this category on WhatsApp. Tell us the load and the lifting height and we'll pick the right models with you.
Get a Quote on WhatsAppThe name hoist chain is used for two different products. The first is the load chain that runs inside a chain hoist. The second is lifting chain used to attach the load to the hoist hook, and the chain slings made from it. Both differ from ordinary chain: they are made to a set grade for lifting, and the load they can carry is set by the manufacturer. For steel wire ropes that wind onto the drum of a wire rope hoist, see our wire ropes page.
The load chain of a chain hoist is a special fine-tolerance, hardened chain sized to the hoist's chain sprocket. In Europe, hoist load chain is covered by EN 818-7 and sling chain by EN 818-2. The wire diameter and link pitch of the load chain must sit exactly in the pockets of the sprocket. That is why a load chain is never replaced with ordinary chain or sling chain. Replacement chain is chosen by hoist model and chain size (for example 6.3 x 19.1 mm). You can see where the load chain sits in our electric chain hoist guide, and example hoists on our monorail chain hoists page.
A chain sling is made up of one or more chain legs joined to a master link, with hooks at the ends of the legs. Chain slings are usually made with a breaking strength of at least four times their working load limit.
The wider the angle of the legs from the vertical, the greater the force on each leg. This angle should not go above 60 degrees, which is 120 degrees between two legs. For details, see hoist safety rules.
A sling is only as strong as its weakest part. The grade and size of the chain and fittings must match. For the hoist's own hook, see our crane hooks page.
For a chain sling, we need the load weight, the number of lifting points, the leg length and the type of hook. The price depends on the chain grade and size, the number of legs, the leg length and the type of fittings. For replacement load chain, we need the hoist model and chain size. Just send us these details on WhatsApp.
Hoist chain and chain slings are checked visually before every use. A sling is taken out of service if the links show stretch, wear, nicks, cracks or bending, or signs of heat or chemical damage, or if a hook has opened or the tag cannot be read. Chain is never repaired by welding or joined to another chain. G80 and G100 chains are not used in acidic environments, as the steel can become brittle without any visible sign. Slings must also be examined in detail by a competent person at regular intervals. See hoist inspection and maintenance.
No, the load chain of a chain hoist is a special chain sized to its chain sprocket. A chain of a different size or grade will not sit properly in the sprocket and can jump or break. Only use a load chain that suits the hoist model.
G100 is made from a higher-strength steel and carries about 25% more load than G80 at the same size. That means a thinner, lighter sling for the same job. If parts of the two grades are mixed, the sling is rated by the lower grade.
Usually not. The load is not always shared equally between four legs, so standard ratings give a four-leg sling the same capacity as a three-leg sling. The fourth leg helps to hang the load evenly and makes it easier to attach.
The make and model of the hoist, the wire diameter and link pitch of the chain, and the lifting height. On some hoists the chain runs over a sheave in the hook block and works in two falls, so the chain needed is more than twice the lifting height. The easiest way is to send us a photo of the hoist's rating plate.
Every chain sling carries a tag showing its working load limit, chain grade and number of legs. On multi-leg slings the capacity depends on the leg angle, so the tag usually states the angle range it applies to. Do not use a sling whose tag is missing or cannot be read.
We compare chain and wire rope hoists in a single table and explain, with examples, which one is the better choice for which job.
Read more: Chain Hoist or Wire Rope Hoist? Choosing a Monorail Hoist →We explain the legal periodic inspection of hoists, who can carry it out and the points the operator should check every day, with a checklist.
Read more: Periodic Hoist Inspection and Maintenance: Legal Requirements and a Checklist →We explain the parts, mounting types and technical specifications of an electric chain hoist. Using one of our models as an example, we show what the figures on the rating plate mean.
Read more: Electric Chain Hoist: Where It Is Used and How to Choose One →The load, the lifting height and the beam length. Send them on WhatsApp or give us a call and we'll come back with a model and a price.
