Lifting Chains
Advantage Rigging sells Grade 80 and Grade 100 alloy lifting chain by the foot in sizes from 9/32" to 1", with working load limits (WLL) from 3,500 lb to 47,700 lb. Each quantity is one foot, so you order the length you need. Your order ships as one continuous piece unless you ask us to cut it. Need a full drum, or a size you don't see? Call 480-502-2225. Ships from Gilbert, AZ.
Shop by grade: Grade 80 chain · Grade 100 chain. Related: Finished chain slings · Coupling links · Master links · Lifting hooks · Transport chain · Weight lifting chain
Lifting chain WLL chart: Grade 80 and Grade 100
Working load limit for one straight, vertical strand of chain. Choose a size and grade whose WLL meets or exceeds the load. In a sling, the WLL also depends on the number of legs and the sling angle: see the chain sling WLL chart. The WLL on a finished sling's tag always governs.
| Chain size | Grade 80 | Grade 100 |
|---|---|---|
| 9/32" | 3,500 | 4,300 |
| 5/16" | Not sold by the foot | 5,700 |
| 3/8" | 7,100 | 8,800 |
| 1/2" | 12,000 | 15,000 |
| 3/4" | 28,300 | 35,300 |
| 7/8" | Not sold by the foot | 42,700 |
| 1" | 47,700 | Not sold by the foot |
Lifting chain questions
What is the difference between Grade 80 and Grade 100 lifting chain?
Both are heat-treated alloy steel chain made for overhead lifting. Grade 100 is rated about 25% higher than Grade 80 of the same size. For example, 1/2" chain is rated 12,000 lb in Grade 80 and 15,000 lb in Grade 100, so Grade 100 can let you use a smaller, lighter chain for the same load. See our Grade 80 vs Grade 100 guide.
How is the working load limit set?
Grade 80 and Grade 100 working load limits use a 4:1 design factor, so the chain's minimum breaking force is four times its WLL. The WLL is the most the chain should ever lift. Breaking force is never a working number.
Can I use Grade 70 or Grade 43 chain for overhead lifting?
No. Those grades are for tie-down and transport. Use alloy chain, such as Grade 80 or Grade 100, for overhead lifting. For hauling, see our transport chain.
Is chain by the foot a complete lifting sling?
No. Chain alone is not a sling. All attachments must be matched to the chain's size and grade. OSHA 1910.184 requires each alloy chain sling to be proof tested before first use and to carry a tag showing its size, grade, rated capacity and reach. See Sling Proof Testing and replacement tags, or buy a finished chain sling.
Does heat affect lifting chain?
Yes. OSHA 1910.184 requires an alloy chain sling's WLL to be reduced, following the manufacturer's recommendations, when it is exposed to service temperatures above 600°F, and the sling must be permanently removed from service if heated above 1000°F. Manufacturers can set lower limits, so check the chain maker's temperature chart before using chain in high heat.
Can you build a sling from this chain?
Yes. Call 480-502-2225 with the chain size, grade, number of legs, reach and fittings you need.
