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How to Build the Perfect Chain Sling in 6 Simple Steps

Designing a lifting chain sling is more than selecting a chain and hooks. It requires accurate configuration, correct working load limit (WLL) calculations and a clear understanding of lifting angles, load distribution and operating conditions.

This guide shows how to build a compliant chain sling in 6 simple steps using the RUD Configurator, helping you improve safety, reduce errors and streamline your lifting design process.

The RUD Configurator is a free and straightforward chain sling calculator that helps engineers, riggers and lifting professionals design safer, more efficient slings with confidence. It helps save time on chain sling selection while improving application accuracy to create a safer lifting solution.

Click here to use the RUD Chain Sling Configurator to build your sling now.

Step 1: Choose the Chain Type for Your Lifting Chain Sling

The first step in any lifting chain sling configuration is selecting the correct chain type based on your lifting application and required working load limit (WLL).

The options we have included are:

Next, we need to determine the load capacity and choose between 2 grades:

Selecting the proper chain system ensures the sling delivers the required strength, durability and operational performance. Learn more about calculating Working Load Limits (WLL) for chain slings using ChatGPT (Opens a new browser tab with ChatGPT).

Step 2: Adjust for Operating Conditions

Correctly accounting for environmental conditions is critical for lifting safety and compliance with Australian rigging standards. Factors such as temperature, shock loads, and chemical exposure can affect WLL.

ICE components are recommended in challenging environments due to their wear-resistant materials. Choosing the right chain for your conditions ensures safety and longevity.

Step 3: Select Suspension Components

Suspension components are critical rigging equipment that connect the sling to the crane and the load. Options include master links, hooks, connecting elements, shortening elements and balancers. For guidance on selecting compatible components, see rigging hardware selection best practices using ChatGPT (Opens a new browser tab with ChatGPT).

The Configurator offers compatible suspension components based on your selections, helping ensure correct load distribution during crane lifting operations.

Step 4: Add Shortening Components

To balance loads or correct asymmetry, shortening components such as shortening hooks or shortening claws allow precise adjustment of sling length without compromising safety.

These components increase versatility and adaptability across different lifting scenarios. The Configurator highlights compatible options and shows how they integrate into the overall chain sling assembly.

Step 5: Add Intermediate Components

Intermediate components customise the sling for smooth operation and comply with Australian Standards (AS 3775.2).

This step ensures the sling functions safely and effectively under real-world conditions.

Step 6: Select End Components

End components attach the sling directly to the load.

Common options include:

Selecting the correct end fittings is essential for secure load attachment and overall lifting system safety. The Configurator allows you to compare compatible options and confirm suitability.

Review the 3D Model and Export the Design

Throughout the process, you can visualise the sling in 3D. As components are added, the Configurator generates a realistic model, helping confirm the configuration before finalising the setup.

Once complete, users can:

This integration ensures the chain sling design fits seamlessly into project planning and lift documentation.

Why Use a Chain Sling Calculator?

A chain sling calculator removes manual guesswork and improves accuracy in lifting load calculations. Instead of relying on charts or spreadsheets, users can configure a compliant sling based on real-world conditions. This makes it easier to standardise safe lifting practices across projects and teams.

Some of the key benefits are:

Removing the Guesswork from Chain Sling Design

Designing a lifting chain sling no longer requires manual calculations or complex charts. The RUD Configurator is a free, easy-to-use chain sling calculator that helps you design accurate, compliant and safe lifting solutions.

By improving selection speed, application accuracy and safety, it enables engineers and rigging professionals to make confident decisions for every lift.

Click here to start building your chain sling today. Email us or call us on 07 3809 1300.

Article copyright to RUD Australia. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.

RUD Lifting Innovation Event.

RUD Australia’s October 2025 Lifting Innovation Event showcased live demonstrations, breaking tests and the Configurator sling chain calculator, highlighting safer, more efficient lifting solutions while connecting industry leaders and CICA delegates in Brisbane.

RUD Australia held a Lifting Innovation Event in October 2025, exclusively for the crane industry. We invited Crane Business Owners, Lifting Operations Managers, Lifting Engineers and Industry Partners to an engaging showcase and demonstration of lifting design, equipment technology, and innovation, timed alongside CICA 2025.

What did we showcase?

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us - your enthusiasm, discussions and collaboration made the event a fantastic success. We are proud to continue leading the way in lifting innovation and safety excellence across Australia.

Part 2 of the 2-part article. Click here to read Part 1.

This article explains how advanced motion control, compliant load securing and certified testing protect wind turbine components, improving safety, reducing crane time and supporting reliable wind farm development in Australia.

Motion Control for Wind Farm Installations

Lifting long and slender wind turbine components requires stability as well as strength. Motion control systems, including engineered lift points, guide mechanisms and controlled tag line systems, help minimise rotation and pendulum movement during installation. This is particularly important in outback Australian wind farm locations where wind conditions can change rapidly. Improved motion control reduces corrective crane movements, lowers crane time and enhances crew safety during complex wind turbine lifts.

Lashing Equipment & Load Securing for Wind Turbine Transport

Transporting wind turbine components across Australia requires certified lashing equipment and compliant load securing systems. Integrated lifting and lashing solutions are essential to prevent transport related damage before components reach site. RUD’s Grade 120 ICE chain systems and lashing equipment provide:

By integrating lifting and lashing equipment into a complete material handling strategy; wind energy operators reduce transport incidents and protect components across the supply chain.

Testing, Certification & Compliance

Compliance and traceability are critical in major wind energy infrastructure projects. Certified lifting and lashing equipment should include:

Comprehensive testing ensures load paths and fabricated components meet Australian standards before operation. For EPC contractors and project owners, this documentation simplifies audits and strengthens regulatory confidence across wind farm developments.

Planning Wind Turbine Lifting Early

For optimal performance, lifting equipment selection should begin during the wind farm design phase, not just prior to mobilisation. Project planners should:

Early coordination ensures lifting and lashing equipment is engineered specifically for each wind energy project, reducing installation challenges and improving long term reliability.

Supporting Australia’s Growing Wind Energy Industry

As Australia’s wind energy capacity continues to grow, so does the need for advanced wind turbine lifting and lashing equipment. Through modular spreader beams, component-specific lifting systems, integrated Grade 120 lashing equipment and certified testing and inspection services, RUD Australia supports wind farms across manufacturing, transport, installation and maintenance.

The result is safer wind turbine lifts, faster project schedules, reduced downtime and lower lifecycle costs, ensuring high value turbine components remain protected throughout their operational life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chains are used for wind turbine transport?
Certified Grade 120 lifting chains are commonly used for heavy duty load securing during wind turbine transport across Australian wind farms.

How do you ensure lifting compliance in Australia?
Compliance is ensured through load testing, certification, documented traceability and adherence to Australian standards for lifting and lashing equipment.

If you want more details of our wind turbine lifting and lashing solutions, email us or call us on 07 3809 1300.

Article copyright to RUD Australia. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.

This is a 2-part article.

Australia’s growing wind energy sector demands engineered lifting and lashing solutions to safely and efficiently handle longer blades, heavier nacelles and taller towers across installation, transport and maintenance.

Delivering safe and efficient wind turbine lifting in Australia requires more than standard rigging gear. It demands engineered lifting equipment, certified lashing systems and technical expertise that protect high value components throughout the wind energy project lifecycle.

Engineering Support Across the Wind Farm Lifecycle

From manufacturing facilities to remote wind farm sites, lifting and lashing solutions must integrate seamlessly.

RUD Australia supports wind energy projects with:

This end-to-end capability ensures continuity between manufacturing, transport, installation and maintenance, reducing risk while improving efficiency across Australian wind farms.

Why Lifting Innovation Matters in Wind Energy

Every wind turbine lift carries risk. Incorrect rigging, unpredictable weather conditions or inadequate planning can lead to:

Engineered lifting equipment reduces these risks by aligning beam geometry precisely with designated lift points. Using in-house finite element analysis (FEA), lifting systems can be validated to control bending forces and ensure safe load distribution.

Certified lifting equipment manufactured and inspected to Australian standards minimises downtime, reduces corrective work onsite and offshore and shortens wind farm installation schedules.

Modular Spreader Beams for Wind Turbine Lifting

Modular spreader beams remain central to safe wind turbine lifting. Multi-point lifting reduces bending stress on long components such as blades and tower sections.

Modern modular lifting beams:

This modular approach supports reusability and lowers total lifecycle costs - a key consideration in large scale Australian wind farm developments. Custom lifting beam configurations further ensure correct load paths and safe lifting geometry for specialised turbine components.

Component-Specific Wind Turbine Lifting Equipment

Wind turbine components require precision handling to protect composite blade surfaces, machined interfaces and internal assemblies.

Specialised lifting equipment for wind energy projects includes:

Using purpose designed lifting equipment improves control, protects high-value assets and reduces reliance on improvised rigging methods. This shortens alignment time and enhances safety during wind farm construction and servicing.

Click here to read Part 2 ...

If you want more details of our lifting and lashing solutions for the wind energy sector, email us or call us on 07 3809 1300.

Article copyright to RUD Australia. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.

Frequently Asked Questions

What lifting equipment is used for wind turbine installation in Australia?
Wind turbine installation in Australia uses modular spreader beams, blade lifting tools, nacelle lifting fixtures and certified Grade 120 chains to distribute loads safely and comply with Australian standards.

Why are modular spreader beams important for wind farms?
Modular spreader beams distribute loads evenly across multiple lift points, reducing bending stress on long blades and tower sections while ensuring safe wind turbine lifting.

What are sudden shock loads and how to avoid them?

The RUD ACP-TURNADO lifting point eliminates dangerous shock loads caused by standard shackles jamming during rotation. By featuring a unique spring-loaded mechanism that automatically aligns with the direction of force, it ensures smoother, safer handling and protects expensive equipment from damage.

In the injection moulding sector, particularly within the automotive supply chain, handling heavy moulds is a daily operational critical task. Activities such as lifting, rotating and opening these moulds carry inherent safety risks. Moreover, given the urgency of automotive production schedules, even minor delays or mishaps can have serious consequences.

Every mould must be lifted in and out of the injection-moulding machine with precision. Tight schedules mean that delays in tool handling can disrupt production lines, potentially incurring penalties from vehicle manufacturers. Consequently, safe and efficient handling is essential, not only for productivity but for the protection of workers and equipment.

Sudden Loads and Stress Points

When moulds are turned while suspended, the lifting system is often subjected to "shock loads." These occur when standard lifting points become stuck in a 90-degree position during the turn. As the lifting point snaps back into alignment with the direction of the force, the load shifts abruptly, placing immense strain on the bolts, shackles and crane components.

These sudden movements can cause:

Maintaining efficiency under time pressure while reducing these risks and ensuring safety remains one of the biggest challenges in tool handling.

Enter A Smarter Lifting Solution - ACP-TURNADO

To eliminate these risks, RUD developed the ACP-TURNADO, an advanced lifting point designed to prevent shock loads and unintentional load drops.

The core innovation of the ACP-TURNADO is a unique spring-loaded mechanism that ensures the shackle automatically aligns in the direction of the pull. This means it cannot get stuck in the dangerous 90-degree “worst-case” position. The result is smoother lifting and rotating, without sudden impacts or excessive shear forces.

Key Features of the ACP-TURNADO

All ACP-TURNADO variants also include wear indicators for easy inspection. From size M36, they also include torque and load data on the bushing, as well as angle markings for quick alignment checks.

Lifting and Lashing

The ACP-Turnado is not limited only to lifting. It can also be used as a lashing point for securing loads during transport or between production and storage. Its automatic alignment in the pulling direction helps maintain correct load restraint.

Safety Note: A lifting point used for lashing (Safety Factor 2:1) must not be reused for lifting (Safety Factor 4:1).

This dual functionality makes the ACP-Turnado particularly valuable in injection-moulding environments where moulds are frequently moved between production, maintenance and storage areas.

Smarter and Connected Handling

RUD offers digital tools to make lifting operations safer and more efficient. ACP-TURNADO lifting points include integrated RFID transponders. This allows users to instantly access manuals, inspection records and technical data sheets, streamlining compliance and maintenance.

Safe and Efficient

The ACP-Turnado is more than a lifting or lashing point - it’s a safety engineered system for modern manufacturing. By combining automatic alignment, robust construction and digital traceability, it helps automotive and industrial operators to:

In demanding environments like injection moulding, the ACP-Turnado delivers the reliability and safety required to keep production moving efficiently and without compromise.

RUD offers certified, durable slings for crane operations. Click here for our ICE Grade-120 and VIP Grade-100 Chain Slings. Do you want more information on our lifting solutions? Call us on 07 3809 1300 or email us.

Original article in German by Fabian Bihlmaier, Product Manager Lifting, RUD Group in Kuhn Fachmedien. English article copyright to RUD Australia. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.

RUD Lifting Solutions in the Singleton Bypass Project.

RUD supplied engineered Philipp Cast-in Lifting Hoops for the $700 million Singleton Bypass Project, supporting the safe lifting and installation of 100-tonne precast concrete bridge girders. The solution improved lifting safety, simplified installation, reduced equipment requirements and helped keep the project on schedule. Early collaboration with RUD’s engineering team also optimised design efficiency, reduced consumable costs and provided fast onsite support throughout the project.

The Singleton Bypass is a $700 million project jointly managed by the Commonwealth and the NSW State Government. The New England Highway carries approximately 26,000 vehicles daily, including over 3,700 heavy vehicles. The bypass will alleviate traffic congestion by circumventing five sets of traffic lights in Singleton's CBD. When finished, it is expected to improve travel times, freight efficiency and safety for local and interstate motorists.

RUD Solutions

RUD supplied Philipp Cast-in Lifting Hoops for the bridge girders, which are a safe and efficient solution for lifting heavy prestressed units such as beams, decks, and girders. The cast in lifting hoops have a fully engineered design and are Working Load Limit (WLL) colour-coded for easy visual checks. They eliminate the need for specialist lifting clutches or equipment, making them simple to use and a more efficient method for large precast elements.

RUD has a team of design engineers to tailor lift designs to specific projects, with a focus on simple installation and safe and efficient final installation, including consideration for temporary works.

RESULTING BENEFITS

Lifting Hoops

Testimonial

"When you are casting 100T concrete girders, there is little margin for error, and big savings can be generated if cost-effective solutions are provided. The benefit of engaging RUD was reflected in the fact that all girders were installed on time and without incident. I could call RUD anytime and they were at my disposal if there were onsite changes or questions.

Getting RUD involved early in the design phase assisted in the optimisation of walkways and produced savings on consumables. RUD are very pragmatic in their recommendations and utilise their extensive experience to problem-solve issues ahead of time.

As a business, we could not have been more impressed with Matt and the team. The advantage RUD provides is a solution-focused engineering team with a quick turnaround time".

Will Howson
Project Manager
Australian Precast Solutions

Do you want more information on infrastructure solutions? Call us on 07 3809 1300 or email us.

Article copyright to RUD Australia. Pictures are used from Transport for NSW. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.

When it comes to lifting chains and rigging equipment, every second counts. Traditional shackles, bolts, nuts and cotter pins are reliable but time-consuming. Parts can be lost, tools are required, the wrong assembly risks safety and frequent handling leads to wear. 

Enter the RUD CCS FASTLOX, a transformative innovation from RUD designed to eliminate many of those pain points in one go. Helping crews who rely on RUD lifting equipment, RUD chains and RUD lifting lugs to work faster, safer and smarter.

What is CCS FASTLOX?

The CCS FASTLOX is a clickable clevis shackle designed for ease of use in industrial lifting and rigging applications.

The key features include:

What Sets CCS FASTLOX Apart?

The CCS-FASTLOX stands out for its speed, safety, and simplicity; redefining the lifting and rigging process while upholding RUD’s reputation for reliability in demanding industries

Real Time Savings
Traditional shackles require tools and multiple steps, slowing operations. The CCS-FASTLOX cuts down mounting and dismounting time by up to 80%, enabling more lifts in less time and delivering significant efficiency gains across projects

Enhanced Safety
With no manual bolting needed, the built-in locking mechanism removes the risk of incorrect assembly. An audible click confirms secure engagement, eliminating issues like missing cotter pins or loose bolts and ensuring a safe, consistent connection every time

Durability and Versatility
Engineered for harsh conditions, the CCS-FASTLOX is ideal for direct chain connections, lifting beams, and spreader bars. Available in Grade 100 (VIP) and Grade 120 (ICE) materials, it combines strength, flexibility, and innovation to offer a superior alternative to traditional hooks

Digital Integration with RFID
Each unit includes an RFID transponder for instant, contactless identification during inspections. This simplifies compliance, reduces paperwork, and provides quick access to digital records, enhancing traceability and maintenance efficiency

Perfect for a Wide Range of Industries

Whether operating cranes on a construction site, managing offshore lifting gear, or coordinating warehouse logistics, the CCS-FASTLOX delivers tangible benefits.

It is ideal for industries where:

From mining and manufacturing to infrastructure and logistics, the CCS-FASTLOX helps crews get to work faster, while maintaining the world-class safety and performance expected from RUD.

For teams already using RUD lifting points, RUD eye bolts, or pinky lifting lugs, this next-generation shackle represents the future of safe, efficient and traceable lifting operations.

Do You Want More Information on the CCS-FASTLOX? Call us on 07 3809 1300 or email us.

Article copyright to RUD Australia. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.

Selecting the proper chain is critical for safe lifting operations. Remove the guesswork of choosing the right chain length and components with the Australian RUD Sling Configurator, which helps you select the best RUD Grade-100 and Grade-120 chains for your requirements.

Configuring lifting chains does not have to be time-consuming or complicated. Traditionally, this involved multiple decisions such as selecting the chain grade, lifting angles, end components and load requirements. It also required manually cross-referencing charts, part numbers and technical specs.

But with the NEW RUD Sling Configurator, you can design, configure and create the proper chain sling for any lifting application. And in only six easy steps. So, whether you are an engineer wanting to do a lift plan, a rigging specialist or a lifting equipment supplier, the RUD online tool makes it faster and easier with a step-by-step process that ensures your final setup is safe and optimised for your specific lifting needs.

What You Can Do with the Sling Configurator?

Build your chain sling in 6 simple steps
Walk through a guided process from start to finish, selecting your suspension parameters and elements, shortening elements and intermediate parts

Choose between VIP-100 and ICE-120 chain systems
The Sling Configurator includes both VIP Grade-100 and ICE Grade-120. Each grade has its advantages depending on your application, from high-strength lifting to cold-temperature performance

Select compatible components
View and compare a full range of chain slings, hooks, links and connectors

Get expert lifting tips and product information
Every step includes suggestions and best practices that are built into the process, so you know what you are selecting every time

Visualise with a live 3D model
Watch your configuration come to life as a 3D render to ensure it is exactly what you require

Download CAD files and PDFs
Export your design for documentation, lift plans or to share with your team for discussion

Send your configuration to RUD
You can finalise your design and email it directly to the RUD Australia team for fast, accurate quoting and further support if required

What Are the Benefits?

Try the Sling Configurator Today

Click here to access the Sling Configurator - https://configuration.au.rud.com/ 

If you want more details of our lifting and lashing solutions, email us or call us on 07 3809 1300.

Article copyright to RUD Australia. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.

The CICA (Crane Industry Council of Australia) Conference is one of the biggest crane industry events in the southern hemisphere. CICA 2025 will be held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from Wed, October 15, to Fri, October 17, 2025. RUD is proud to sponsor the Networking Dinner on 16 Oct and will showcase solutions for the crane industry's lifting, lashing, and engineering requirements at the show. 

RUD Australia is a certified supplier to the crane and infrastructure industry, providing solutions such as:

Check our blogs on the Legacy of Innovation for the Crane Industry, Safe Lifting with Spreader & Lifting Beams and Beyond the Hook.

Visit our stand #7 in the Main Hall at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from 15-17 Oct 2025 to discuss our Lifting, Lashing, Drive and Engineering Solutions.

For more information on RUD Solutions for the Crane Industry, click here to fill out our form or visit our contact page to send us an enquiry.

Founded in Germany in 1875 and celebrating 150 years in 2025, the RUD Group is a global leader in chain technology and lifting solutions. It currently employs over 1,700 employees and sells products in more than 140 countries. RUD was founded by the Rieger family, which continues to blaze a path with a strong legacy of innovation, quality, and technical excellence.

RUD Australia was established in 1984 and has been led by the Nuttall family since its inception. For the past 40 years, it has been supporting the crane industry with innovative lifting and lashing solutions through local offices across Australia and New Zealand.

RUD's focus on safety is exemplified by the quality of its products, especially the ICE 120 chain slings, which are manufactured to meet the highest safety standards for crane operators and on-site staff. Mark Read, Director of SureLift Crane Hire, a long-term RUD customer, attests to the quality of RUD's chain slings, testifying that they are the "best chains in the industry". SureLift Crane Hire, which started with one crane in Moranbah, Queensland, now operates over 16 cranes and exclusively uses RUD products because of their performance, which Mark believes "embodies the message of safety."

RUD Australia has an advanced 6000m2 engineering and manufacturing facility in Brisbane, which offers bespoke lifting and material handling solutions for the crane industry. The production facility includes expanded positional robotic welding technology and multiple 200/500-tonne test beds, ensuring quality work that exceeds industry standards.

RUD provides customised lifting kits and lashing solutions for the crane industry. RUD’s ICE Grade 120 chains can be tailored to meet specific site requirements. The ICE Grade 120 chain is 30% lighter than Grade 80, a critical safety factor. Additionally, when used with a balancer, a RUD ICE 16 mm chain can lift up to 48 tonnes, which is the highest in its capacity class. Mark Read of SureLift Crane Hire highlights the balancer as a "huge point of difference" that allows them to lift at a higher capacity while maintaining safety.

Brisbane-based Hulk Lifting consistently turns to RUD for lifting and lashing solutions. “Knowing that we’re using RUD’s products provides us with a sense of comfort and reassurance,” says Ben Rose, Director of Hulk Lifting. “RUD really are ‘best-in-show’ for us: through the design, manufacturing and final build stages; everything is simply top-notch.”

RUD designs and manufactures a range of lifting and spreader beams locally, specified to customer applications. We also offer over 700 boltable and weldable lifting points featuring load ranges all the way up to 250 tonnes.

RUD Australia is known for its unrivalled after-sales service and support, which customers highly value. As Mark Read of Surelift Hire notes, “RUD is always available to provide advice on maintenance, new products and different lifting solutions”, which is similarly echoed by Ben of Hulk Lifting, “Whenever we get something in from RUD, there’s always an engineer coming afterwards to inspect the product and ensure that it’s performing exactly as it should.”

The New RUD Sling Configurator

Configuring lifting chains for applications can be time-consuming and complex. Multiple factors influence safety, complicating the choice of the right sling chain. The new Sling Configurator from RUD makes it easier to configure the perfect chain sling for any lifting application in only six easy steps.

In addition to choosing between a VIP-100 and an ICE-120 chain, you also get a choice of components, information on the lifting accessories, tips on lifting and the option to save your chain configuration as a PDF or CAD file and email it to RUD.

The benefits of the RUD Configurator

The Sling Configurator gives you a list of the parts in your configuration, which makes it easy to discuss the sling chain with your team and contact us to place an order or for more information.

https://configuration.au.rud.com/

By combining a long-standing legacy of quality with cutting-edge technology and a strong focus on customer service and safety, RUD aims to be a preferred partner for crane operators seeking a safe and reliable investment.

RUD is holding an open event on 15 October at 12 Commerce Place, Larapinta, QLD 4110. We will showcase our lift technologies for the crane industry, including break tests for chains, lifting beams, and lifting points. We will also demonstrate our new robot and ICE Tensioner load cell technology. Limited spaces, so call us to book your seat!

Interested in our lifting, lashing and chain solutions? Call us on 07 3809 1300 or enquire here.

Copyright to RUD: This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise.

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