SINGLE PATH ROUNDSLINGS

What is a polyester roundsling and when should it be used?

A polyester roundsling is a flexible synthetic lifting sling made from continuous polyester fibers loops enclosed by a tubular jacket. Polyester slings are not affected by moisture, and many chemicals, making them suitable for indoor and outdoor lifting applications and are used in most marine environments. Polyester slings are commonly used in construction, manufacturing, steel handling, and equipment lifting where metal slings may cause abrasion or load damage. These slings provide a low-cost, lightweight lifting solution with capacities from a few thousand pounds up to tens of thousands, and its flexibility makes it well suited for vertical (straight-line), choke, and basket hitch applications where surface protection and easy lightweight rigging are priorities for lower capacity lifts.

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How do you choose the right polyester roundsling for lifting a load?

To choose the right polyester sling, start by determining the weight of the load and the required sling hitch configuration, such as straight-line, choker, or basket hitches. Select a sling with a rated working load limit that meets or exceeds the load when adjusted for the hitch angle. Consider the size, shape, and surface condition of the load as well as the lifting / connection points to ensure proper fit and load control. Always verify sling tags, follow ASME and OSHA guidelines, and inspect the sling before use to ensure safe lifting operations.

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What are the advantages and limitations of polyester slings compared to other materials?

Polyester slings offer several advantages, including flexibility, lightweight handling, and the ability to conform to loads reducing the risks of damaging surfaces. They provide resistance to UV exposure, moisture, and many common chemicals, making them suitable for a wide range of environments. However, polyester slings have limitations compared to materials like wire rope, chain, and high performance synthetic slings. They are more susceptible to damage from sharp edges, abrasion, and high temperatures, and they typically have lower working load limits for the same size. Proper edge protection and inspection are critical to ensure safe use.

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How should polyester slings be inspected, maintained and retired from service?

Polyester roundslings should be inspected before each use and as part of a documented periodic inspection program in accordance with ASME B30.9 and manufacturer guidelines. The inspection should focus on the sling cover and overall condition, checking for cuts, tears, abrasion, punctures, melted or hardened fibers, chemical damage, discoloration, broken stitching, or distorted shape. If the load-bearing core is visible at any point, the sling must be removed from service immediately.

Proper maintenance includes keeping slings clean and dry, storing them away from direct sunlight, heat sources, chemicals, and sharp edges when not in use. Slings should never be dragged, knotted, twisted, or pulled from beneath a load. Only approved edge protection should be used when lifting over corners or abrasive surfaces, and roundslings should never be repaired by tying knots or stitching damaged areas.

A polyester roundsling must be retired from service if there is exposed core yarn, severe abrasion, cuts, burns, melted fibers, chemical attack, damaged or illegible identification tags, or evidence of overload such as excessive elongation or stiffness. Any sling involved in a shock load or suspected overload should also be removed from service until evaluated by a qualified person.