Lifting Chain Specifications: Key Parameters, Sizes & Standards Explained

Lifting chains are the backbone of material handling systems, but using the wrong specifications can lead to equipment failure or accidents. This guide breaks down the 7 key parameters of lifting chains, including international standards (ISO, ASME, DIN), to help you select the correct chain size and grade for your needs.

1. Chain Diameter: The Foundation of Strength

What it means: The thickness of the steel rod used to make the chain (measured in mm or inches).

Why it matters: Diameter directly determines the chain’s breaking strength and working load limit (WLL).

Lifting chain capacity For a detailed table, please refer to our product range:https://www.lieyingrigging.com/lifting-chains/

*WLL = Breaking Strength / Safety Factor (usually 4:1).

Pro Tip: Always match the diameter to your load. A 10mm chain can safely lift 2 tons, but a 20mm chain is needed for 8 tons.

2. Strength Grade: Material Quality Matters

Chains are graded based on their tensile strength (measured in MPa). Common grades include:

Grade 30 (G30): 300 MPa – Light-duty towing, agriculture.

Grade 80 (G80): 800 MPa – Most industrial cranes and hoists.

Grade 100 (G100): 1,000 MPa – Mining, heavy machinery.

Grade 120 (G120): 1,200 MPa – Offshore rigs, extreme loads.

Critical Note: Mixing grades in a system is dangerous. The weakest link defines the entire chain’s capacity.

Read: How to Identify Chain Grade?

3. Working Load Limit (WLL)

What it means: The maximum load a chain can safely handle.

Formula:

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WLL = Breaking Strength ÷ Safety Factor (Typically 4:1 for lifting)  

Example: A G80 chain with a 32,000 kg breaking strength has a WLL of 8,000 kg.

Red Flag: Never exceed WLL – 90% of chain failures result from overloading.

4. Pitch: Chain Link Spacing

What it means: The distance between the centers of two adjacent links (see diagram below).

Why it matters:

Short pitch = Higher flexibility, lower weight capacity.

Long pitch = Stiffer chain, higher durability.

5. Chain Length

What to know:

Measured in meters or feet.

Always account for slings and attachments when calculating total length.

OSHA requires chains to have a 5% length tolerance – e.g., a 10m chain can stretch up to 10.5m under load.

6. Material & Coating

Choose based on your environment:

Carbon Steel: Economical for indoor use.

Alloy Steel (Grade 80+): Heat-treated for heavy loads.

Stainless Steel: Corrosion-resistant for marine/chemical environments.

Galvanized/Zinc Coated: Outdoor durability against rust.

7. Certification Standards

Global standards ensure safety and compatibility:

ISO 1835:International,Unified grading (T8=G80)

ASME B30.9:USA,Mandatory for OSHA compliance

DIN 5685:Color-coded grades (Blue=G80)

Always Verify: Legitimate chains have laser-etched markings (e.g., “G80 10mm”) and come with test certificates.

How to Choose the Right Chain: 3 Steps

• Calculate Your Load: Include shock loads (e.g., sudden starts/stops).

• Match Diameter & Grade: Use the WLL table above.

• Check Environmental Needs: Saltwater? Choose stainless steel. High heat? Avoid plastic coatings.

FAQs: Quick Answers

Q: Can I repair a damaged lifting chain?

A: No. prohibits welding or modifying chains – replace damaged links immediately.

Q: How often should I inspect chains?

A: Formal inspections every 12 months, plus visual checks before each use.

Q: What’s the difference between Grade 80 and Grade 100?

A: Grade 100 chains have 25% higher WLL and better fatigue resistance.

Real-World Case Study

A construction site in Dubai replaced G30 logging chains with G80 chains on their cranes.Equipment failures dropped by 70%.Project delays reduced by 40%.