subject: Round Sling Inspection Tips [print this page] When using a round sling it is always good practice to fully inspect the sling before using it. This will ensure that the sling is fit for purpose and safe to use.
When inspecting a sling the first thing to look for is stitching at the cover splice, tag area, or along the seam of non-seamless covers, which may puncture core yarns. If this happens, then this can cause load fibre failure up to 20 per cent. If you find that new slings have been stitched in this way, talk to your supplier to correct the issue.
Once you start to use the sling, it is recommended to carry out daily inspections. Some specific defects that should be looked for include acid or caustic exposure nylon slings may deteriorate and weaken if exposed to these substances, while polyester slings may not react at all. It is important to remember that round slings are made up of several components and several different materials, not all of which are visible so a thorough check is required.
Check the core yarns have not been compromised at all. This can be exposure through holes, tears, cuts or wear. Make sure there are no broken or damaged core yarns.
Make sure your round sling does not become tied up in knots. From the surface a knot may not seem all that serious but in reality it can contribute up to 50 percent capacity loss.
These days slings are equipped with Tell-Tails or other external warning indicators which help identify internal damage to the sling. Twin path slings have Tell-Tale that extends past the tag area of the sling. These types of tails pull inside the sling when there is core damage or severe overload to the sling.
However, occasionally incorrect rigging procedures will cause a Tell-Tail to retreat into the sling. Generally, if the tail can be pulled out easily by hand not with the assistance of tools the sling is okay. When in doubt, send the sling to the manufacturer to determine if the sling can be repaired.
While round slings offer tremendous advantages in terms of high capacities at relatively light weights, they should be treated with the respect that they deserve. A round sling is unique, unlike any other type of sling. Yet all it takes is a little common sense and proper training to extend the life of a round sling.
