15.5.3 Adverse Conditions
In adverse environments, the SWL must be reduced from a value equal to the working load limit in accordance with the following recommendations.
15.5.3.1 High temperature conditions
Wire rope slings with WIRE CORES and ALUMINIUM FERRULE SECURED EYES should not be used above 150°C. Such slings which have accidentally been subjected to temperatures in excess of 150°C should be withdrawn from service.
Slings made from wire rope with a FIBRE CORE should not be used at temperatures exceeding 100°C. Such slings which have accidentally been subjected to temperatures in excess of 100°C should be withdrawn from service.
The use of wire rope with a WIRE CORE to produce slings with either HAND SPLICED OR STEEL FERRULE SECURED EYES enables them to be used at temperatures up to 400°C. However, a reduction in strength occurs necessitating a reduction in SWL as shown in the following table.
Temperature | Reduction in SWL |
|---|---|
Up to 100°C | No reduction |
100 to 200°C | 10% |
200 to 300°C | 25% |
300 to 400°C | 35% |
Over 400°C | Not recommended |
Provided that the sling is subjected to temperatures no greater than 400°C, there will be no permanent loss of strength, i.e. the strength of the sling will return to normal at room temperature. Beyond 400°C, a permanent loss of strength will occur and slings exposed to such temperatures should be withdrawn from service.
15.5.3.2 Low temperature conditions
Wire rope slings will not be adversely affected by temperatures down to minus 40°C and no reduction from working load limit is therefore necessary on this account. Where slings are to be used at temperatures below minus 40°C, the manufacturer should be consulted.
15.5.3.3 Acidic and chemical conditions
The use of wire rope slings in acidic conditions is not recommended. In other conditions which may present a possibility of chemical attack, the manufacturer should be consulted.
15.5.3.4 Classified atmospheres
Due to the possibility of sparking, the use of aluminium is restricted in certain classified atmospheres. Care must therefore be taken when selecting wire rope slings with ferrule secured eyes for use in such areas to ensure the suitability of the ferrule material.