Wire Rope Sling Inspections

Inspection Frequency Per ASME B30.9

A visual inspection for damage shall be performed by the user or designated person each day or shift the sling is used. A complete inspection for damage shall be performed periodically by a designated person, at least annually. Written records of the most recent periodic inspection shall be maintained.

Rejection Criteria Per ASME B30.9

Missing or illegible sling identification; evidence of heat damage; slings that are knotted; fittings that are pitted, corroded, cracked, bent, twisted, gouged or broken; other conditions, including visible damage, that cause doubt as to the continued use of the sling.

Wire Rope Slings

Excessive broken wires, for stand-laid and single part slings, ten randomly distributed broken wires in one rope lay or five broken wires in one strand in one rope lay. Severe localized abrasion or scraping, kinking, crushing, birdcaging. Any other damage resulting in damage to the rope structure. Severe corrosion of the rope or end attachments.

Chain Slings

Cracks or breaks. Excessive wear, nicks or gouges. Stretched chain links or components. Bent, twisted or deformed chain links or components. Excessive pitting or corrosion. Lack of ability of chain or components to hinge freely. Weld splatter.

Web Slings

Acid or caustic burns. Melting or charring of any part of the sling. Holes, tears, cuts or snags. Broken or worn stitching in load-bearing splices. Excessive abrasive wear. Discoloration and brittle or stiff areas on any part of the sling, which may mean chemical or ultraviolet / sunlight damage.

Round Slings

Acid or caustic burns. Evidence of heat damage. Holes, tears, cuts, abrasive wear or snags that expose the core yarns. Broken or damaged core yarns. Weld splatter that exposes core yarns. Discoloration and brittle or stiff areas on any part of the slings, which may mean chemical or other damage.