There are four main categories of lifting chains. Each of the categories is based on strength, chemical composition, and use.
Chain specifications include size, grade, rated capacity and reach.
The chemical make up of the steel is called a grade. Lifting chains include grades of 30, 43, 70, 80 and 100. This rating is based on carbon content, the higher the carbon content the stronger the chain.
The four categories of Lifting chain are:
- Proof Coil Chain - Lower grade lifting chain, typically a 30 grade made of low carbon steel, used for logging, towing and marine applications.
- High - Test Chain - Medium grade, typically a grade 43. Made of medium carbon steel. Higher strength to weight ratio than proof coil. Used for industrial, construction, agricultural and logging.
- High - Tensile Chains- Also known as transport chains usually a grade 70 chain. They are thicker chains that have hooks on the ends.
- Alloy Chains - Durable grade fo either 80 or 100, used mostly for overhead lifting applications as other types of steel can stretch and break without warning.