Wire rope slings are among the most widely used lifting devices in construction, mining, and manufacturing. However, their reliability depends entirely on proper inspection and maintenance. A single overlooked defect can lead to catastrophic failure, putting lives and equipment at risk.
Every wire rope sling must be visually inspected before each use. Look for broken wires — if you count ten or more randomly distributed broken wires in one rope lay, or five or more in one strand, the sling must be removed from service immediately. Also check for kinking, crushing, birdcaging, or any distortion of the rope structure.
Corrosion is another critical factor, especially in outdoor and marine environments. Surface rust may seem minor, but it often indicates deeper internal degradation. Regular lubrication helps prevent corrosion and extends sling life. In coastal regions like Croatia and Montenegro, salt air accelerates wire deterioration significantly.
Heat damage is often invisible but dangerous. Wire rope slings exposed to temperatures above 200°C lose their load-bearing capacity permanently. Never use a sling that has been near a fire or welding operations without professional inspection.
End fittings and connections deserve equal attention. Check ferrules, thimbles, and eye splices for cracks, deformation, or slippage. The connection point is often where failure begins. Ensure that the sling angle never exceeds 60 degrees from vertical, as steeper angles dramatically increase the load on each leg.
Proper storage matters too. Slings should be hung on racks in dry, ventilated areas — never left on the ground where they can absorb moisture or be damaged by vehicles. Keeping detailed inspection records is not just good practice, it is required by EN 13414 and most national safety regulations in the Balkans and EU.
At Dosevos Technologijos, we supply certified wire rope slings manufactured to EN 13414 standards, with full documentation and load testing certificates. Our technical team can help you select the right sling configuration for your specific lifting application.
