All About 2 Leg Wire Rope Slings for Lifting Heavy Loads | Rigging Equipment

Introduction to 2 Leg Wire Rope Slings

Wire rope slings, also known as wire slings or cable slings, are an important piece of rigging equipment used to attach a load to a crane or hoist. They provide a flexible, high strength method to lift loads safely and efficiently on job sites. Two leg wire rope slings, as the name suggests, have two legs coming down from the master link to form a triangle and cradle the load. They are an extremely versatile type of sling with many advantages for the rigger.

Advantages of 2 Leg Wire Rope Slings

There are several key benefits that make two leg wire rope slings useful in a wide variety of lifting applications:

• High strength-to-weight ratio - The wire rope itself has a very high strength rating for its size and weight. This allows wire rope slings to lift heavy loads while remaining lightweight and easy to handle.
• Flexibility - Wire rope slings can bend and conform to fit around irregularly shaped loads. This helps maintain control of the load during the lift.
• Durability - Properly maintained wire rope has excellent resistance to abrasion, crushing, and deformation under load. Wire rope slings often outlast other types of slings.
• Non-sparking - The wire rope is non-conductive and will not spark if it rubs against steel objects. This makes wire slings ideal for hazardous environments.
• Capacity range - Wire rope slings come in a wide range of capacities, from just a few hundred pounds up to hundreds of tons. This versatility suits them for both light duty and heavy industrial lifts.

The two leg configuration takes advantage of these benefits while also keeping the sling stable beneath the load. The twin legs prevent the load from sliding out during the lift. Wire rope slings can be used in vertical, choker, or basket hitch configurations depending on the characteristics of the load and crane.

Components of a 2 Leg Wire Rope Sling

All two leg wire rope slings have a few basic components in common:

• Wire rope - The sling legs are made from high strength, preformed wire rope. 6x19 and 6x36 class wire rope are common.
• Master link - A metal ring or oblong link connects the two legs together at the top. Often has a safety latch.
• End fittings - Swivel hooks, shackles, rings or other hardware are affixed to the ends of the legs.
• Sleeves - Protective sleeves cover the areas where the wire rope enters the master link and end fittings.
• Tag - A metal tag states the rated capacity, sling angle, and other essential information.

The capacity of the sling depends on the wire rope size and construction, as well as the angle of the legs. Wider leg angles reduce the rating per the marked tag. All sling components must be properly matched and installed by qualified personnel.

Inspection & Maintenance

Two leg wire rope slings provide optimal safety and performance when properly inspected and maintained. Wire rope is steel cable made up of many individual wires, which can break over time. Signs of damage include:

• Broken wires or strands
• Kinking, crushing, birdcaging, or other deformations
• Corrosion and pitting
• Cracked or deformed end fittings
• Illegible or missing sling tag

Regular close-up visual inspections should be performed by trained riggers. Slings should be immediately removed from service if any damage is found. Proper storage, such as hanging slings freely from racks, maximizes lifespan. Lubrication of the wire rope extends service life. Following the manufacturer's recommendations for inspection and use is critical.

Proper Use of 2 Leg Wire Rope Slings

While extremely useful, wire rope slings must be used properly to avoid safety hazards. Riggers should follow these guidelines:

• Inspect slings thoroughly before each use.
• Make sure the lifting device, sling angle, hitch, and load weight are all compatible.
• Do not exceed the rated capacity marked on the tag.
• Use padding to avoid sharp bends and damage to the wire rope.
• Never tie knots or splices in wire rope slings.
• Watch for and avoid pinch points.
• Lift the load slowly and smoothly, avoiding jerks.
• Do not drag slings on the ground or abrade the wire rope.

Proper rigging techniques must be employed to keep the load under control. The legs of the sling should be of equal length. The load should be centered in the base of the sling triangle. Slings should not be loaded at extreme angles. Caution is required in windy conditions.

Following sling capacities, inspection protocols, and safe lifting practices reduces hazards. With proper use, two leg wire rope slings are one of the most durable, versatile, and safe rigging tools available to lift heavy loads.

Conclusion

Two leg wire rope slings are an essential rigging component for lifting and moving heavy loads with cranes or hoists. Their high strength, flexibility, and durability make them ideal for construction, industrial, offshore, and many other applications. Following proper procedures for use, inspection, and maintenance will keep workers safe and optimize the working life of these slings. Riggers should be thoroughly trained to use two leg wire rope slings safely and effectively for any lifting job.

FAQs

What is the advantage of a two leg sling over a single leg sling?

The two legs cradle the load to prevent sliding or tipping. Single leg slings can allow the load to shift, creating an uncontrolled or dangerous lift.

What is the best sling angle for a two leg wire rope sling?

The optimal sling angle is 60 degrees or greater. As the angle between the sling legs decreases, the rated lifting capacity also decreases significantly.

What are wire rope slings made of?

Wire rope slings consist of many small steel wires twisted into strands, which are then twisted into a larger wire rope. The steel provides high strength and flexibility.

How often should I inspect my wire rope slings?

Wire rope slings should be visually inspected before each use for any damage. They should also undergo periodic thorough inspections according to the manufacturer's recommendations.

Can I use wire rope slings in hot or chemical environments?

Wire rope slings can withstand some heat exposure, but extreme temperatures and caustic chemicals can degrade the wire over time. Use extra caution in these conditions.