In the lifting and rigging industry, chains are essential components. However, the Load Chain, Lifting Chain, and Hand Chain serve distinct purposes. Understanding their differences helps select the right product, enhancing safety and efficiency.
What Are Load Chains, Lifting Chains, and Hand Chains?
Load Chain
Load Chain is primarily used in manual and electric hoists, directly bearing loads and working with sprockets to lift heavy objects. It is typically made of high-strength alloy steel (G80 or G100 grade) for superior wear resistance and load capacity.
| Size(mm)DXL | WLL/T | BL/KN | b(mm)min | B(mm)max | Weight(kg) |
| 3×9 | 0.28 | 11.3 | 3.8 | 10.7 | 0.21 |
| 4×12 | 0.5 | 20.1 | 5 | 14.3 | 0.35 |
| 5×15 | 0.8 | 31.4 | 6.3 | 17.9 | 0.54 |
| 6×18 | 1.1 | 45.2 | 7.5 | 21 | 0.79 |
| 6.3×19 | 1.25 | 49.9 | 7.9 | 22.6 | 0.86 |
| 7.1×21 | 1.5 | 61.6 | 9 | 24.5 | 1.07 |
| 8×24 | 2 | 80.4 | 10 | 28 | 1.38 |
| 9×27 | 2.5 | 102 | 11.3 | 32.2 | 1.76 |
| 10×30 | 3.2 | 125 | 12.5 | 35 | 2.2 |
| 11.2×34 | 4 | 158 | 14 | 40.1 | 2.71 |
| 11×43 | 3.8 | 154 | 12.6 | 36.5 | 2.33 |
| 12×36 | 4.6 | 181 | 15 | 42 | 3.1 |
| 12.5×38 | 4.9 | 196 | 15.5 | 42.2 | 3.3 |
| 13×39 | 5.3 | 214 | 16.3 | 46 | 3.8 |
| 14×42 | 6.3 | 250 | 18 | 49 | 4.13 |
| 14×50 | 6.3 | 250 | 17 | 48 | 4 |
| 16×48 | 8 | 320 | 20 | 56 | 5.63 |
| 16×64 | 8 | 320 | 23.9 | 58.9 | 5.11 |
| 18×54 | 10 | 410 | 21 | 60 | 6.6 |
| 20×60 | 12.5 | 500 | 25 | 70 | 8.6 |
| 22×65 | 15.3 | 610 | 28 | 74.2 | 10.7 |
| 22×66 | 15.3 | 610 | 28 | 77 | 10.2 |
| 22×86 | 15.3 | 610 | 26 | 74 | 9.5 |
| 24×72 | 18 | 720 | 32 | 82 | 12.78 |
| 24×86 | 18 | 720 | 28 | 79 | 11.6 |
| 26×78 | 21.3 | 720 | 35 | 91 | 14.87 |
| 26×92 | 21.3 | 850 | 30 | 86 | 13.7 |
Lifting Chain
Lifting Chain is a broader term that includes Load Chain but also refers to chains used in lifting operations, such as sling chains. These are commonly used with cranes, lifting devices, and for securing heavy loads, and they comply with standards like EN818-2.
| Size(mm) DXL | WLL/T | BL/KN | b(mm)min | B(mm)max | Weight(kg) |
| 4×12 | 0.5 | 20.1 | 5.2 | 14.8 | 0.35 |
| 5×15 | 0.8 | 31.4 | 6.5 | 18.5 | 0.5 |
| 6×18 | 1.12 | 45.2 | 7.8 | 22.2 | 0.8 |
| 7×21 | 1.5 | 61.6 | 9.1 | 25.9 | 1.1 |
| 8×24 | 2 | 80.4 | 10.4 | 29.6 | 1.4 |
| 10×30 | 3.15 | 126 | 13 | 37 | 2.2 |
| 13×39 | 5.3 | 212 | 16.9 | 48.1 | 3.8 |
| 16×48 | 8 | 322 | 20.8 | 59.2 | 5.7 |
| 18×54 | 10 | 407 | 23.4 | 66.6 | 7.3 |
| 19×57 | 11.2 | 454 | 24.7 | 70.3 | 8.1 |
| 20×60 | 12.5 | 503 | 26 | 74 | 9 |
| 22×66 | 15 | 608 | 28.6 | 81.4 | 10.9 |
| 26×78 | 21.2 | 849 | 33.8 | 96.2 | 15.2 |
| 32×96 | 31.5 | 1290 | 41.6 | 118 | 23 |
Hand Chain
Hand Chain is used for manual operation in hand chain hoists. It does not bear the load directly but is pulled manually to drive the internal gear mechanism, lifting or lowering it. It is usually made of low-carbon steel or stainless steel, with zinc or nickel plating for rust resistance. It is usually thinner than load chains, with common diameters between 3mm-6mm to ensure smooth pulling.
Key Differences Between Load Chain, Lifting Chain, and Hand Chain
| Feature | Load Chain | Lifting Chain | Hand Chain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Direct load-bearing works with hoists to lift loads | Mainly used in lifting operations like slings | Transfers manual force to operate a hoist |
| Application | Manual hoists, electric hoists | Lifting devices, cranes, sling assemblies | Hand chain hoists |
| Material | G80/G100 high-strength alloy steel | G80/G100 lifting-grade alloy steel | Low-carbon steel or stainless steel |
| Load Capacity | Must meet rated load requirements | High-rated load, directly used for lifting | Does not bear loads, only transfers force |
| Standards | EN818-7 | EN818-2 (sling chains), EN818-7 (short link chains) | Typically follows ISO 606 (roller chain standard) |
| Surface Treatment | Galvanized, electrophoresis, blackening for durability | Galvanized, electrophoresis, or blackened | Nickel-plated, zinc-plated for rust resistance |
| Chain Link Type | Short-link, designed for sprocket compatibility | Short link or long link | Lightweight design for smooth manual operation |
Application Scenarios
- Load Chain: Used in manual and electric hoists, precisely matched with sprockets for lifting loads.
- Lifting Chain: Used in lifting operations and sling chains, applied in cranes and heavy-duty lifting equipment.
- Hand Chain: Used in manual chain hoists, for operating the hoist mechanism manually without direct load-bearing.
How to Choose the Right Chain?
✅ Need to lift heavy loads? → Choose Load Chain, ensuring it meets hoist specifications.
✅ For lifting or sling applications? → Choose Lifting Chain, typically G80 or G100 grade.
✅ Operating a manual hoist? → Choose Hand Chain, ensuring smooth operation and corrosion resistance.
- Considerations:
Load weight (static vs. dynamic).
Usage environment (corrosive, high temperature, etc.).
Operation method (manual vs. mechanical power).
- Misconception reminder:
Hand Chain and Lifting Chain cannot be mixed.
Avoid overloading the Load Chain.
Maintenance & Care
- Load Chain & Lifting Chain: Regularly inspect for cracks, wear, deformation, and keep them lubricated to prevent overloading.
- Hand Chain: Keep clean and rust-free, avoiding dirt buildup that could hinder smooth operation.
FAQ
Q1: Can a normal chain be used instead of a lifting chain?
Absolutely not! Normal chains are not heat treated and certified and are prone to breakage under dynamic loads.
Q2: Can a hand chain be used in conjunction with electric equipment?
No. Hand chains are designed to be manually operated, and mechanical actuation may cause overload or loss of control.
Q3: How do I calculate the safe working load of a chain?
Formula: WLL = breaking strength / safety factor (usually 4:1). For example, a chain with a breaking strength of 20 tons has a WLL of 5 tons.
Conclusion
- Load Chain is a type of Lifting Chain, specifically used in hoists for bearing loads.
- Lifting Chain includes Load Chain but also refers to sling chains used in broader lifting applications.
- Hand Chain is entirely different, as it does not bear loads but is used for manually operating hoists.
Understanding these three types of chains helps in choosing the right product, improving efficiency, and ensuring safety.
