ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AFFECTING
PERFORMANCE OF SYNTHETIC WEB SLINGS

ULTRA-VIOLET (UV)LIGHT EXPOSURE

Continual exposure to ultra-violet light can affect sling strength in varying degrees from-slight to total
degradation. The following precautions can be taken to prevent strength loss.

€ When not in use, web slings should be stored in a cool, dry and dark place to prevent loss of
strength through UV light (sunlight or arc welding flash).

€ Check frequently for visible indicators of UV exposure such as:

1.Bleaching out of sling color.

2.Increased stiffness of web sling material.

3.Surface abrasion in areas not normally in contact with load.

€ Slings used in environments subject to continuous UV exposure shall be proof-tested to twice
rated capacity semi-annually or more frequently, depending on severity of exposure.

CHEMICALLY ACTIVE ENVIRONMENTS

Exposure to chemically active environments can affect the strength of web slings from little loss of
strength to total degradation. Before using a sling in a chemically active situtation, the web sling
manufacture should be consulted. The following factors need to be considered when using web
slings in chemical environments.

€ Each application must be evaluated taking into consideration to following:

1. Type of acid, alkalai or other chemical

2. Exposure conditions

3. Concentration of chemical

4. Temperature

€ Acids

1.Nylon is subject to degradation in acids ranging from little to total degradation.

2.Polyester is resistant to many acids, but is subject to degradation ranging from little to
moderate in some acids. (Not to be used in concentrated sulphuric acid).

€ Alkalais

1.Polyester is subject to degradation in alkalais ranging from little to total degradation.

2.Nylon is resistant to many alkalais, but is subject to degradation ranging from little to
moderate in some alkalais.

€ Temperature

Nylon and polyester web slings shall not be used at temperatures in excess of 194 degrees F
(90 degrees C) or temperatures below minus 40 degrees F(minus 40 degrees C).

Index of Synthetic Sling Products

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