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Lifting chains are essential in many industrial sectors for moving and lifting heavy loads. They are made from different grades of steel, each with specific characteristics suited to various applications. Among these grades, steel grades 80, 100, and 120 stand out for their strength and durability. This article explores the main differences between these three steel grades to help you choose the best material for your needs.
Grades 80, 100, and 120 represent levels of tensile strength of steel used to manufacture lifting chains, steel cables, and similar devices. The higher the number, the greater the tensile strength of the material. These steel grades are selected based on specific lifting requirements and usage conditions.
Grade 80 steel is one of the most commonly used materials for lifting chains. It is strong, durable, and offers excellent corrosion resistance, making it suitable for most industrial applications. However, it may not be sufficient for extremely heavy and dangerous loads where high tension is exerted on the chain.
Grade 100 steel is even stronger than grade 80. It is specifically designed for the most demanding applications, such as lifting heavy and dangerous loads in the offshore industry. Although this steel has a higher tensile strength, its corrosion resistance is slightly lower than that of grade 80.
Grade 120 is the most robust and durable material for lifting chains. It is ideal for extremely demanding applications where very high tension is exerted on the chain. This grade of steel offers very high tensile strength, making it particularly suitable for the mining, oil, and gas sectors. However, it is also the most expensive and has lower corrosion resistance compared to other grades.
The differences between steel grades 80, 100, and 120 are mainly in terms of strength, tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and cost. For example, a grade 120 steel lifting chain with a diameter of 13 mm can support a workload similar to a grade 80 chain with a diameter of 16 mm. This means that a grade 120 chain is lighter and easier to handle while providing superior lifting precision and safety performance.
In summary, lifting chains made of grade 80, 100, or 120 steel exhibit significant differences in terms of strength, tensile strength, corrosion resistance, and costs. Choosing the right material depends on specific applications and lifting requirements. For common loads, grade 80 may suffice, while for very heavy and dangerous loads, grades 100 or 120 will be more appropriate.