LIFTING SLINGS

What is the working load limit or WLL? (lifting slings/round slings)

The term WLL stands for Working Load Limit, which refers to the maximum permitted load that can be lifted in a straight pull using means such as lifting slings and round slings. The WLL is expressed in metric tons and varies according to the lifting angle. To determine the effect of a certain angle on the WLL of your lifting strap, refer to the WLL summary, which can be found next to the product image for the lifting strap or round slings. The term Safe Working Load (SWL) is another, less-known term for WLL.

When purchasing lifting slings, what should I watch out for?

Use only lifting slings that have an identifiable label with an indelible indication of:

the name of the manufacturer
country of origin
type of certification
working load limit (WLL)
safety factor (7)
production date
serial number
length

The responsibility for using lifting slings lies with the user. Please read below how to use a lifting strap. If you have any doubts, please contact us.

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What material are lifting slings made of?

Lifting straps are made of polyester. Polyester (PES) has the following properties:

good resistance to high temperatures, UV radiation, and most acids
remains strong even when wet
high tensile strength in relation to its specific weight

Lifting belts made of polyester always have a blue label for identification.

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Why do lifting slings have different colors?

To ensure safety, lifting slings are assigned a specific color based on their weight limit (WLL), regardless of the manufacturer.

WLL 1 ton = purple / violet

WLL 2 tons = green

WLL 3 tons = yellow

WLL 4 tons = gray

WLL 5 tons = red

WLL 6 tons = brown

WLL 8 tons = blue

WLL ≥ 10 tons = orange

In addition, each lifting strap gets a number of black lines stitched on. Each line represents 1 ton (1 line = 1 ton, 2 lines = 2 tons, etc). The WLL is also always mentioned (mandatory) on the label.

How to use lifting slings?

STEP 1: CHECK THE WLL WORKLOAD

Check whether the working load limit (WLL), stated on the label and expressed in tons, is sufficient for the object you want to hoist.

ATTENTION: Take into account the lifting configuration, working conditions and shape of the object you want to hoist. The impact of the lifting angle on the strength of the lifting sling can be found in the WLL diagram (next to each lifting sling in our web store).

STEP 2: CHECK THE CONDITION OF THE SLING

Always check all sides of the lifting strap label fittings, end fittings, and connecting elements.

If there is any doubt about the safety/quality of the webbing, do not use a lifting strap.

STEP 3: GETTING STARTED

Work safely

Never work or stand under a lifted load
Lift belts weighing more than 18 kilograms handle with a device or with more than 1 person

Attaching the sling

Place the lifting sling flat around the load.
Never twist the sling.
Do not tie knots in the webbing.
When "slinging" or using the lifting sling, form a natural angle of 120 degrees to avoid friction
Make sure the object you are hoisting remains balanced at all times. The actual lifting point should be perpendicular to the center of gravity.
Never force the lifting sling into an unnatural position or try to increase the grip with additional force.

Choose the right accessories

Always use the correct lifting hook when lifting:

Always choose attachments compatible with the shape and width of the webbing. The lifting strap must always be able to pass flat through the connecting parts.
The length of the lifting strap loop suspended from a lifting hook must be at least 3.5 times the maximum thickness of the hook.
The formed angle in the loop on the lifting hook should not exceed 20 degrees.
The supporting surface of an attachment should always be straight.
When the bearing width of the strap exceeds 75 mm, the arc radius of the hook (or attachment) must be at least 0.75 times as large.

Lifting, lowering, and moving

When lifting or lowering, increase speed only gradually and avoid jerking.
Avoid trapping the sling when lowering the load If the load is resting on the webbing, do not try to pull it out from under it.
Do not drag the load with a lifting strap or drag it across the ground or a rough surface.

Using more than 1 lifting sling

If you need more than 1 sling, use identical slings of the same length. Avoid slipping of the load by using an equalizer or lifting beam.

When should I NOT use a lifting sling?

Lifting Sling Without a Label

Never use a lifting sling that is not equipped with a label. Safety is not guaranteed.

Damaged Lifting Sling

Damage (such as from abrasion) causes a loss in breaking strength.
Use a wear or protective sleeve to prevent abrasion.
Always avoid direct contact with sharp edges and corners.

Lifting Sling Exposed to Chemicals

Lifting slings are made from polyester yarns. These are resistant to mineral acids, but not to alkalis.
Harmless chemical solutions can, over time, negatively affect the sling through evaporation.
If you are in doubt about the condition of your sling, contact us.

Contaminated Lifting Sling

Always wash dirty slings thoroughly in cold water.
Use neutral cleaning agents if necessary, and allow them to air dry naturally.

Knotted Lifting Sling

Lifting slings should never be knotted. This affects the WLL (Working Load Limit) and no longer guarantees safety.

Lifting Sling Exposed to Extreme Temperatures

Lifting slings are suitable for use at temperatures between -40°C and +100°C.

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How do I store lifting slings?

Store lifting slings in a cool, dry place.
Avoid exposure to UV radiation (direct sunlight).

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Should I have lifting slings and components inspected?

Damaged lifting slings no longer guarantee safety.

Regularly inspect the lifting sling for damage throughout its entire lifespan.
Always check attachments, end fittings, connecting elements, labels, etc., for damage.
Steel triangles and end fittings should be tested at least every 4 years.
Triangles and end fittings made of materials other than steel should be tested annually.
Metaltis recommends having lifting slings inspected once a year by a certified expert. This inspection can be recorded using the date marking on the blue label.

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