Which condition in a chain sling set indicates stretched links?

Which condition in a chain sling set indicates stretched links?

• A. Stretched links
• B. Rust on fittings
• C. New links
• D. Over-tensioned

Answer: (A)

In chain sling inspections, a permanent deformation in the links is the clear sign of overload. When links stretch, the overall length of the sling increases and the material’s strength is reduced, which directly lowers lifting capacity and raises the risk of failure under load. This kind of elongation happens from prior overloading or repeated heavy lifting, and it won’t revert—so any noticeable stretching means the sling should be removed from service and replaced. Rust on fittings points to corrosion, which weakens parts but doesn’t prove the links themselves have elongated. New links imply the components are unused and not worn, so they don’t indicate stretched links. Being over-tensioned describes how the sling is used at a moment in time, not a permanent deformation of the links.

In chain sling inspections, a permanent deformation in the links is the clear sign of overload. When links stretch, the overall length of the sling increases and the material’s strength is reduced, which directly lowers lifting capacity and raises the risk of failure under load. This kind of elongation happens from prior overloading or repeated heavy lifting, and it won’t revert—so any noticeable stretching means the sling should be removed from service and replaced.

Rust on fittings points to corrosion, which weakens parts but doesn’t prove the links themselves have elongated. New links imply the components are unused and not worn, so they don’t indicate stretched links. Being over-tensioned describes how the sling is used at a moment in time, not a permanent deformation of the links.