To order synthetic bridle slings, you must define the number of legs (1 to 4), the total weight of your load, and the specific end fittings (hooks or shackles) required for your equipment. Because these are multi-leg assemblies, you also need to specify the sling angle (the angle between the load and the sling leg) to ensure the assembly is rated for the resulting tension.
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Define the Assembly Configuration
Bridle slings are multi-leg assemblies that provide stability for large or balanced loads.
- Number of Legs: Choose between single (S), double (D), triple (T), or quadruple (Q) leg configurations.Multi-leg assemblies are typically categorized by the number of legs used to support the load.
- Two-Leg Bridle: Ideal for balanced loads with two attachment points.
- Three-Leg Bridle: Often used for triangular or circular loads to provide three-point stability.
- Four-Leg Bridle: Provides maximum stability for square or rectangular loads; often includes adjusters to level uneven loads.
- Custom Assemblies: Some manufacturers offer up to six legs for specialized tasks like lifting rescue boats.
- Sling Type: Select either web slings (flat straps) or round slings (endless fibers in a protective jacket).
- Material: Polyester is standard for general use and offers low stretch (approx. 3%), while nylon is more elastic (8-10%) and better for shock absorption.
- End Fittings: Specify the hardware for both the top (typically an oblong master link) and the bottom of each leg (such as sling hooks, shackles, or eyes).
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Determine Capacity and Dimensions
Ordering the correct capacity is critical for safety, as multi-leg tension changes based on the lift angle.
- Working Load Limit (WLL): You must know the total load weight and account for the sling angle. Tension increases as the angle “flattens out”; a 30-degree angle can effectively double the stress on a sling.
- Length: Measure from the top load-bearing point to the bottom load-bearing point (e.g., from the top of the master link to the bottom of the hook).
- Plies and Width: Increasing the number of plies (layers of webbing) or the width of the sling body increases the WLL and provides better load protection.
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Select Protective Options
Synthetic slings are vulnerable to cuts, heat, and chemicals.
- Edge Protection: Order wear pads, protective sleeves, or corner guards if you will be lifting loads with sharp edges.
- Environmental Resistance: Choose polyester for acidic environments and nylon for alkaline conditions. Neither should be used in temperatures exceeding 194°F (90°C).
Key Components
- Master Link: The central gathering point at the top, typically made of high-strength alloy steel (Grade 80), which connects to the crane hook.
- Sling Legs: Can be made from flat webbing(polyester or nylon) for a wide bearing surface or roundslings for high strength-to-weight ratios.
- End Fittings: Hardware at the bottom of each leg, such as eye hooks, swivel hooks, or shackles, chosen based on the load’s attachment points.
- Adjusters: Optional G80 alloy steel components that allow riggers to shorten or lengthen individual legs to balance uneven loads.
