clearly use the demand
Load weight:
Determine the maximum working load (including dynamic load and impact load) that the chain needs to withstand, and select the chain with rated load ≥ actual demand. The safety factor is usually 4:1 (general lifting) to 6:1 (high-risk occasions).
Working environment:
Temperture: heat-resistant alloy steel chain (such as stainless steel or special coated chain) is required for high temperature environment.
Corrosive: Stainless steel or galvanized chain is preferred for humid and chemical environments.
Dust/abrasion: Chains with high abrasion resistance should be considered.
chain type selection
Material:
Alloy steel chain: the most common, high strength, suitable for general lifting (such as G80 grade)
Stainless steel chain: corrosion-resistant, suitable for food and chemical industries (e.g. A4-80 grade).
Galvanized chain: rust-resistant, suitable for outdoor or wet environment.
Structure:
Welded chain: light duty and low cost, but less strong.
Forged chain: high strength and durability for heavy loads (e.g. G80/G100 grade).
Bolt-on chain: removable and esay to maintain, but need to check the bolts regularly.
safety standards and certification
Select chains that meet international/national standards, such as:
ISO3077(Standard for short link chains for lifting)
EN818(European standard for lifting chains)
Check whether there is third party certification(e.g. CE, GS mark)
size and specification matching
Chain ring size: Match the chain diameter according to the size of crane pulley or sprocket (e.g. φ6mm, φ10mm, etc.).
Length: Reserve the adjustment margin to avoid over-tightening or over-loosening to affect the safety of operation.
Matching equipment compatibility
Ensure that the chain is compatible with hooks, rings, hoists and other equipment (e.g. cotter pins, snaps).
Check that chain end treatments (e.g. safety hooks, swivel joints, etc.) meet the requirements.
maintenance and life assessment
Periodic inspection: Replacement should be made when wear, deformation, cracks or rust exceeds 10% of the original size.
Lubrication: High temperature or high frequency use requires regular lubrication (e.g., use graphite lubricant).
Life record: Record the number of uses and load history to avoid overuse.
Economic trade-off
Prioritize high-reliability brands within your budget to avoid accidents or frequent replacement due to low-cost chains.
Precautions
Overloading is prohibited: even for high safety chains, the rated load must not be exceeded.
Specialized consulting: Complicated working conditions (e.g. extreme cold, deep sea) require customized solutions by contacting the supplier.
