What Type of Chain Is Used for Overhead Lifting?

In overhead lifting, the “right chain” is not a preference—it’s a safety and compliance requirement. Only specific, lifting-certified chains are designed to handle dynamic loading, shock, fatigue, and traceability requirements found in industrial rigging.

Key Takeaways

• Approved for overhead lifting: Grade 80, Grade 100, Grade 120 alloy chain (and certain lifting-rated stainless options).
• Not approved for overhead lifting: common “hardware/transport” grades (e.g., Grade 30, Grade 43, Grade 70) used for tie-down, towing, or general utility.
• Grade matters: higher grades can increase capacity without upsizing chain, which can reduce rigging weight and improve handling.
• System matters: the chain, hooks, master links, and fittings must all be compatible and rated for the intended sling assembly.
• Inspection is required: routine inspection and removal criteria protect people, loads, and equipment.

1) What Chains Are Actually Rated for Lifting?

Overhead lifting requires chain engineered specifically for lifting service. In practice, that means lifting-certified alloy chain in Grade 80, Grade 100, or Grade 120 for most industrial environments—plus specialized lifting-rated stainless chain when corrosion resistance is a must.

Grade 80 Alloy Chain (Workhorse Standard)

Grade 80 is a long-standing standard in overhead lifting—widely used for chain slings and rigging where durability and proven performance are required.

Grade 100 Alloy Chain (Higher Capacity Without Upsizing)

Grade 100 typically delivers higher working load limits than Grade 80 at the same chain size, helping you lift more without adding bulk. It’s a common choice for many modern chain sling assemblies.

Grade 120 Alloy Chain (Maximum Strength-to-Weight)

Grade 120 is selected when you need higher capacity while keeping rigging weight down—or when space constraints make upsizing impractical.

Lifting-Rated Stainless Chain (When Corrosion Resistance Matters)

In marine, chemical, washdown, wastewater, or food-adjacent environments, lifting-rated stainless chain may be appropriate. Stainless options are typically selected for corrosion resistance first, then verified for lifting rating and WLL.

2) Chains You Should NOT Use for Overhead Lifting

Many chains are strong in a straight pull, but still not approved for overhead lifting due to missing requirements like traceability, proof testing, and toughness under dynamic load. Common examples include Grade 30, Grade 43, and Grade 70 chains used for transport or general utility.

3) Working Load Limit (WLL): The Number That Drives Selection

The Working Load Limit (WLL) is the maximum load a chain or sling assembly is designed to handle under proper use. For safe lifting:

• Never exceed the WLL stamped or tagged on the chain/sling.
• Account for sling angle, hitch type (vertical/choker/basket), and the number of legs sharing the load.
• Ensure all components (master links, hooks, connectors) are compatible and rated for the assembly.
• Use a qualified person to determine the correct configuration for complex or critical lifts.

4) Chain Slings: The Most Common “Lifting Chain” in the Field

For most crews, “lifting chain” means a chain sling assembly: lifting-grade chain combined with a master link and end fittings (hooks, grab hooks, etc.). Chain slings are favored for ruggedness, heat tolerance, and long service life when properly inspected.

Common Chain Sling Configurations

• Single-leg: simple vertical lifts, machinery handling, general picks
• Two-leg: balanced loads, common structural picks
• Three-/four-leg: multi-point stability for irregular loads (requires proper leg angle and load-share calculations)
• Adjustable: built-in shortening capability to level loads and manage pick points

5) Hardware & Accessories: Where Safe Lifts Are Won (or Lost)

Your chain is only part of the system. A properly rated sling assembly also relies on the right hooks, master links, and other rigging hardware—selected and sized to match the chain grade and intended configuration.

6) Inspection & Maintenance: Keep Lifting Gear in Service—Safely

Lifting chains and slings should be inspected before use and on a defined schedule. Remove from service if you find deformation, cracks, severe wear, stretched links, damaged hooks/latches, illegible tags, or any condition that calls the rating into question.

• Verify markings: grade + manufacturer ID should be present and legible.
• Check critical wear points: bearing surfaces, inside link wear, hook throat opening, and latch function.
• Confirm documentation: certification, proof testing, and traceability where required.
• When in doubt: remove from service and consult a qualified person.

7) Quick Selection Checklist (Use This Before You Buy)

Conclusion

The chain used for lifting is lifting-grade chain—most commonly Grade 80, Grade 100, or Grade 120 alloy chain, or lifting-rated stainless when corrosion resistance is required. The safest choice is always the one that meets the application’s WLL, uses compatible rated hardware, and is supported by inspection and documentation.