How to Use a Webbing Sling

Generally used for general lifting, webbing slings are strong, flexible, and protective of the load. They can be rigged in vertical, choker, or basket hitches and are a cost-effective alternative to chains.

It is important to inspect webbing slings regularly for signs of damage and reduction in strength. Any cuts or tears, snags, holes, weld spatter, melting, excessive abrasion, red core showing and more should be removed from use immediately.

Lifting

Webbing slings can be used to lift loads, but they require a lot of attention when in use. They need to be inspected for damage and wear, and any signs of these should be removed from use immediately. This includes snags or dents, as well as a reduction in strength or elasticity.

Synthetic web slings are suitable for heavy lifting jobs, and can be used in both vertical and basket configurations. They can also be used in choker or choker-to-choker hitches. When choosing a webbing sling, consider the weight and size of the load, as these will affect the amount of stretch. For safety reasons, only trained crew members should use webbing slings, and the sling should be checked for damage and wear-and-tear before every use.

A woven outer jacket protects the internal load-bearing fibers and core yarns from abrasion, dirt and grease, as well as UV degradation. These slings can be made of either nylon or polyester. Nylon is suitable for acidic environments, while polyester is resistant to alkaline chemicals.

Like other sling types, web slings are susceptible to heat damage and should be kept away from flames or high-temperature environments. They should also be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture. The outer shell of a webbing sling is usually treated with a stain-resistant finish, which makes it easy to wipe clean.

Climbing

Webbing slings are light and relatively inexpensive pieces of equipment, especially when compared to other climbing gear like shoes, a set of cams or even a locking carabiner. Adding one to a rope or rigging line reduces weight and increases the ability to span a greater distance between points for easier movement and a safer climb.

Their soft nature also reduces scratching on contacting loads. This is a significant benefit when working in a sensitive environment where load surfaces may be delicate or damaged. Webbing slings are also more flexible than metal slings webbing sling which makes them better suited to wrapping around oddly shaped loads.

The choice of webbing material can have a significant effect on the quality, capacity and function of the sling. Nylon, polyester and webbing sling Dyneema fibers are the primary webbing materials used for slings. Each offers different advantages for different environments, but the most important criteria is to select a graded and quality product with a rated strength that meets or exceeds your lifting needs.

Checking your webbing slings regularly for damage or signs of reduced strength is essential. Look for disorientation or fuzzy webbing surface yarn, visible reduction in elasticity at full load, signs of heat degradation such as melting or charring and abrasion marks. For chemically-active environments, consider using a polypropylene web sling as they are resistant to acids but not alkali’s.

Slacklining

Slacklining is a balance training, recreational and artistic activity that involves walking on a piece of nylon webbing that’s rigged between two points. The line is between one and two inches wide, which allows for a range of tricks and moves that challenge the slackliner’s ability to stay upright. Unlike tightrope walking, where the line is held taut with tension, slacklining requires more balance skill to complete. Slacklining can also be used as a workout to improve core strength and balance, and can even help reduce anxiety.

To slackline, choose trees that are at least 12 feet tall and in good condition with secure anchor points. Ideally, these trees should be close together to provide more stability. Girth-hitch the slackline’s end around the trunk at a height that suits the slackliner (aim for mid-thigh or knee-height for beginners). Anchor the other end of the webbing to the tree using a double clove hitch. Use a ratchet or other tensioning system to create moderate tension, then check the setup.

Nylon and polyester webbing slings are rated for loads up to 6 tonnes, depending on the material type and size. These types of slings offer excellent durability and are less damaging on the load’s bearing surface than metal slings. However, they may degrade with exposure to certain chemicals in the form of solids, liquids or vapors, so consult the sling manufacturer before using them in chemically active environments.

Pipe Laying

A webbing sling can be used in pipe laying to quickly attach pipes and allow them to be lifted or lowered into position. This is a very efficient way of doing this task and is safer than using a chain or wire sling.

There are several different webbing sling types that can be used in the pipe laying process, including type 3 flat eye and eye sling, type 4 twisted eye-and-eye sling and type 5 endless web sling. Each of these has its own advantages and disadvantages for specific uses.

It is important that webbing slings are carefully selected to ensure they have the ability and capacity to lift the load they’re intended for. These slings should be inspected regularly for any damage or wear. Any sling showing any signs of damage or excessive wear should be disposed of and replaced. It’s also recommended that slings are rotated throughout their service life to avoid any repetitive use damage.

Nylon and polyester webbing slings should be stored away from any fumes, vapors, sprays or mists containing acids or phenolics. These can cause the webbing sling to stretch, weaken or fail. Any sling that has been repaired must be proof tested by the sling manufacturer or a qualified person before being put back into service. This testing should be done at twice the working load limit.