Sling Inspection and Retirement Checklist
Any synthetic rope that has been in use any period of time will show normal wear and tear. Some characteristics of a used rope will not reduce strength while others will. Below, we have identified conditions of damaged slings that should be inspected on a regular basis of its service life.
If upon a periodic inspection you find any of these conditions, you must consider the following before deciding to repair or retire it:
- The length of the rope
- The length of time it has been in service
- The type of work it does
- Where the damage is
- The extent of the damage
In general, it is recommended to:
- Repair the rope if the observed damage is in localized areas and the application permits
- The rope should be removed from service if the damage is over extended areas
Regular Wear
Track Progression
What to look for:
- Slight fuzzy look
- Slight color fading
- Other characteristics appear normal
- Brittle or stiff areas
Causes:
- Initial Use
- Abrasion
Compression
Correctable
What to look for:
- Visible sheen
- Stiffer than rest of rope but loses stiffness with repeated bending
Causes:
- Setting of fiber around object (hooks, etc.)
Corrective measures:
- Bend rope back and forth to remove compression
Pulled Strand
Correctable
What to look for:
- Pulled strand protruding from the rest of the rope
- No damage present
Causes:
- Snagging on vehicle or equipment
Corrective measures:
- Work back into rope by "milking" back and forth
- Ensure strand is back in place before attempting to use
Chemical Degradation
Retire Sling
What to look for:
- Fused/bonded fibers
- Discoloration
- Brittle fibers
Causes:
- Chemical contamination
Heat Degradation
Retire Sling
What to look for:
- Fused/melted fibers
- Very stiff
- Can’t be brought back by bending like compressed fibers
Causes:
- Exposure to high heat
Inconsistent Diameter
Retire Sling
What to look for:
- Tight flat areas
- Looks as if strand or strands have been pulled tight
- Bumps or dips
Causes:
- Broken or pulled internal strand(s)
- Shock loading
Volume Reduction
Retire Sling
What to look for:
- Reduction in size of strands/rope diameter
Causes:
- Abrasion
- Sharp objects
- Cyclic tension wear (fatigue)
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