POLYESTER LIFTING RODS
POLYESTER LIFTING SLINGS
In the transport sector, one of the most common situations is lifting loads of considerable size and weight from the ground onto a vehicle or vice versa. To facilitate this process in the most effective way possible, the best tool for lifting heavy loads of this kind is a polyester sling.
What are polyester slings Polyester slings or straps are a type of sling used for lifting heavy loads and are designed and manufactured to withstand a considerable amount of weight and a wide range of different load shapes. They are made with a strong polyester weave to withstand various types of work you may encounter, including those involving significant heat, water, and unfavorable weather conditions. As a result, they are much stronger, more durable, and more reliable than older forms of heavy-load lifting, such as ropes.
How polyester slings are used Polyester lifting slings are particularly useful in cases where the load to be lifted from one area to another is not only considerably large and heavy, but also difficult to handle and has no attachment points on any side. This is often the case when lifting items such as metal pipes, pallets of concrete blocks, construction materials, and more.
Approved code of practice Being aware of the correct procedure for using polyester lifting slings is essential. Fortunately, there are several useful and reliable ways to use them. Most of these approved methods are based on a variety of factors such as the size, shape, density, and center of gravity of the object or objects to be lifted. One of the most important factors to consider is the need to pay close attention to the type of hitch the sling will be required to support. For example, a “choker hitch” (i.e., a hitch in which the polyester sling passes through itself) will reduce the capacity by 20% compared to the working load limit safety factor.
In addition, one of the most important things to remember is that a load must be properly secured and the lifting point must always be directly above the center of gravity of the load. This helps ensure that the load does not tilt in any way during lifting.
Important safety information for the use of polyester slings Whether using a flat polyester sling with eye loops or a round polyester sling, it is important to follow all proper safety protocols. This will ensure that the lifting sling lasts considerably longer and maintains its safety performance.
Below are the most important safety procedures that must be followed when using polyester slings:
> Make sure to avoid shock loading.
> Do not use a flat or round polyester sling with a missing or illegible label.
> For loads with rough surfaces or sharp edges, protective devices must be used to protect the slings from possible cuts.
> Never use a damaged or worn polyester sling.
> Never use round or flat slings outside the temperature range of -40°C to +100°C.
> Do not exceed the working load limit specified by the manufacturer.
> Polyester slings must be used so that the load is distributed across their full width.
> Do not pull to remove the polyester sling from under a load if the load is resting on it.
> Always visually inspect flat or round slings before use.
It is the operator’s responsibility to ensure that the lifting equipment is safe to use. When in doubt, do not use it!
Flat and round slings must never be knotted.
CAPACITY OF ROUND POLYESTER RING BANDS
LOAD CAPACITY FACTOR REDUCTION TABLE
CAPACITY POLYESTER BANDS WITH BUTTONHOLES
Types of polyester lifting slings
As mentioned, polyester lifting slings are among the most reliable types of slings available on the market for a wide range of lifting applications. They also offer the added advantage of being able to handle substances such as open liquids, various acids, and bleach. In addition, polyester lifting slings are recommended in cases where it is important not to leave any surface marks on the load, for example when lifting a boat or a marble slab.
Polyester lifting slings generally come in two different forms:
Flat: A standard strap made of strong polyester webbing is the right choice when handling a load of considerable weight and size that needs to be lifted but does not necessarily require maximum protection. When greater flexibility and strength are needed, flat slings are the ideal option. Flat slings have an eye loop at each end.
Round: An endless loop of webbing covered by a braided tubular sleeve. These are typically intended for applications where a load requires an extra level of protection due to fragility or other reasons where it is even more critical that it is not dropped or damaged in any way, shape, or form.
Replacement of polyester slings: In most cases, polyester lifting slings can last up to 5 years. This naturally depends entirely on how well they are maintained and the type of loads they are used to lift. If any potential wear points are found on a polyester sling, it must be replaced immediately with a new one to avoid putting both the load and personnel at risk.
What to look for during visual inspections of lifting slings: When inspecting polyester slings, it is essential to always watch for defects such as signs of damage or fraying caused by cuts or wear.
Inspections are normally carried out by fully qualified personnel. These professionals know exactly what issues to look for in polyester lifting slings, such as worn or missing identification tags, worn fittings, acid burns, as well as melting or discoloration of any area of the sling. These checks significantly reduce the likelihood of critical sling failures during use and provide a much clearer indication of when replacement is necessary.
M.E.C.I. srl is qualified to carry out inspection and re-certification of lifting equipment.