3D Model — Orbit & Inspect
Anatomy of a Round Sling
Continuous Polyester Core
Multiple loops of high-tenacity polyester yarn fibres wound in a continuous endless loop. This is where all the strength comes from.
Protective Outer Sleeve
Woven polyester sleeve that protects the load-bearing core yarns from abrasion, UV, and minor damage. Colour-coded by WLL per AS 1353.1.
Stitched Joint
The outer sleeve is stitched closed along its length. This joint does NOT carry load — it only holds the sleeve together to protect the core.
Identification Tag
Sewn-in label showing WLL, manufacturer, serial number, standard compliance, and date of manufacture. No tag = no use.
Purpose & Advantages
Round slings are versatile synthetic lifting slings made from a continuous loop of polyester yarn inside a protective sleeve. They are used for choker, basket, and vertical hitches.
Key Advantages
- Won’t scratch painted, polished, or coated surfaces
- Lightweight — easy to handle and rig
- Conform to the shape of the load for better grip
- No rust or corrosion — suitable for wet environments
- Flexible in all directions — no “memory” like wire rope
- Can be used in tight spaces where rigid slings won’t fit
Colour Coding (AS 1353.1)
The outer sleeve colour identifies the WLL at a glance. This is standardised across all manufacturers:
| Colour | WLL (Vertical) |
|---|---|
| Purple | 1 tonne |
| Green | 2 tonnes |
| Yellow | 3 tonnes |
| Grey | 4 tonnes |
| Red | 5 tonnes |
| Brown | 6 tonnes |
| Blue | 8 tonnes |
| Orange | 10+ tonnes |
WLL by Hitch Method
The effective WLL changes depending on how the sling is rigged:
| Method | Factor | Example (2t sling) |
|---|---|---|
| Single vertical | 1.0× | 2.0 t |
| Choker hitch | 0.8× | 1.6 t |
| Basket hitch | 2.0× | 4.0 t |
Angle Factors Apply
When using multi-leg sling arrangements, the same angle reduction factors apply as wire rope slings.
Never exceed 120° included angle between sling legs.
Limitations
Critical Limitations
- Max temperature 100°C — polyester loses strength above this temperature
- UV damage — do NOT store in direct sunlight; UV degrades polyester fibres
- Chemical damage — acids, alkalis, and solvents attack polyester; avoid contact
- Cannot be repaired — if damaged, the sling MUST be replaced; splicing is not possible
- Not suitable for sharp edges — use edge protectors or choose wire rope slings instead
- No heat work nearby — welding sparks, grinding debris, and hot work will melt the sleeve and core
Inspection & Rejection Criteria
Inspect round slings before every use. Remove from service if ANY of the following are found:
Reject Immediately If
- Cut or torn outer sleeve: core yarns exposed to abrasion and UV
- Exposed inner yarns: load-bearing fibres visible through sleeve damage
- Heat damage: melted, glazed, or hardened areas on the sleeve
- Chemical staining: discolouration from acid, alkali, or solvent contact
- Faded colour: indicates UV degradation — strength may be compromised
- Missing or illegible tag: cannot verify WLL = cannot use
- Stretched or deformed: sling has been overloaded or shock loaded
- Knotted: knots reduce capacity by up to 50% — never tie knots in slings
Good Condition Indicators
- Outer sleeve intact with no cuts, tears, or abrasion wear
- No inner yarns visible through the sleeve
- Colour bright and consistent — no fading
- No melted, glazed, or hardened areas
- ID tag legible with WLL, manufacturer, and date visible
- Stitching intact along full sleeve length
- Sling hangs naturally with no permanent deformation
Storage & Handling
- Store indoors or under cover — away from direct sunlight (UV degrades polyester)
- Hang on racks or hooks — never on the ground where they can absorb moisture or be driven over
- Keep away from chemicals, acids, solvents, and fuels
- Do not drag over concrete, sharp edges, or rough surfaces
- Never tie knots — knots reduce WLL by up to 50%
- Do not use as a tow rope or for lashing — slings are for lifting only
- Clean with mild soap and water if contaminated — allow to air dry
- Tag and quarantine defective slings immediately — do not return to service
Applicable Standards
- AS 1353 — Flat synthetic web slings — covers design, testing, marking, and use of synthetic web and round slings
- AS 4497 — Round slings — synthetic fibre — specific requirements for endless round slings including construction, testing, and marking
- AS 4991 — Lifting equipment — general requirements for all lifting devices
- NSW WHS Regulation 2017 — duties for doggers when selecting and using slings
Remember
The colour of the sleeve tells you the WLL — but ALWAYS check the ID tag to confirm.
Faded colour = possible UV damage = remove from service.