Exploring the Differences Between Grade 30, Grade 70, Grade 80, and Grade 100 Chain
Why Do We Have Chain Grading?
Not all chain is made the same. Whether that is due to construction or material, without any standardization it would be difficult to identify what kind of chain is appropriate for what kind of task. That is why the grading system was constructed, to standardize how chain is rated and to help identify which rating is appropriate for tasks like transportation or overhead lifting. So, What Is the Difference Between Chain Grades?
Chain are graded based three main factors:
- The Strength of a chain.
- The chains durability.
- The chains suitability towards particular tasks.
What Are The Chain Grades?
Grade 30 Chain
Grade 30 chain is a low strength carbon steel chain that is designed for general purpose and light duty tasks. Due to its low tensile strength, this chain has a tendency to bend and warp when placed under heavy loads.
Used In
- Light Duty Operations
- Fencing
- Decoration
- Barriers
Not Approved for Overhead Lifting
Grade 70 Chain
Grade 70 chain, also known as transportation chain, is a heat treated carbon steel chain that is designed for the transpiration industry. Known for its gold chromate finish, this chain is preferred by professionals due to its high visibility, making it easily identifiable for DOT officials.
Used In
- Transportation
- Cargo Securement
Not Approved for Overhead Lifting
Grade 80 Transportation Chain
Grade 80 chain is a heat treated alloy chain that is designed to be used for heavy-duty towing and overhead lifting. This chain has become less popular due to the introduction of grade 100 chain, but still sees use in more economic sling builds.
Used In
- Heavy-Duty Towing System
- Affordable Chain Slings
- Construction
Approved for Overhead Lifting
Grade 100 Chain
Grade 100 chain is one of the most popular grades of chain. Balancing strength and affordability, this chain delivers a a powerful tool for an affordable price. Made with a high strength heat treated alloy steel, this is the best choices when it comes to an overhead lifting solution. Most grade 100 chains have a powder or paint finish to resist damage caused by corrosion, chemicals, or weather.
Used In
- Premium Towing and Transportation System
- Overhead Lifting Operations.
- Chain Slings.
- Construction.
- Energy Industries.
- Manufacturing Industries.
Approved for Overhead Lifting
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between chain grades is important for understand what equipment is appropriate for what use, especially when doing any overhead lifting. Without knowing the difference you could purchase a product that might be rated higher than what you need, or worse, you might end up causing an accident because your equipment was not rated for the application you were using it for. Always remember that grade 80 and grade 100 chain is approved for overhead lifting, but grade 70 and below is not. If you are unsure what to use, contact your rigging professionals for help.
Approved For Overhead Lifting
- Grade 80
- Grade 100
Not Approved For Overhead Lifting
- Grade 70
- Grade 30
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