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Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition is Australia’s premier commercial maritime and naval defence exposition which will be held at the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney from Tue 4 - Thu 6 Nov 2025.

RUD Australia is also a certified supplier to the Australian Defence Force. Some of the solutions we provide to the ADF are:

What does RUD offer?

We offer innovative lifting solutions which are manufactured in Germany, suitable for corrosive applications such as the NEW ACP-TURNADO Ocean Star which is ready for marine applications or the ROV-Hook, which has been developed specially for rigging with underwater robots.

ROV Subsea Rigging Hook

Developed for subsea rigging applications for use with Remote Controlled Vehicles (ROVs)

ACP-TURNADO Bolt-On Lifting Point - M30

ACP-TURNADO Ocean Star Bolt-On Lifting Point

This lifting point combines the benefits of the ACP-TURNADO for marine applications. It is certified according to DNV-ST-0377 and DNV-ST-0378 and designed for safe and reliable use in subsea and offshore environments.

Inox-Star Bolt-On Lifting Point

Inox-ABA Weld-On Lashing Point

RORO Weld-On Lashing Point

TECDOS Drive Technology

TECDOS Drives can be used in linear, rotating, horizontal or vertical applications to:

Click here to visit the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition website.

Visit our Defence Jobs Qld Area booth from 4-6 Nov 2025 at the International Convention Centre to discuss our maritime Lifting, Lashing and Drive Technology Solutions.

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

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.

When a foundry in Italy found itself in a hot problem, they turned to RUD.

Foundries are notoriously harsh environments. They get hot, insanely hot. Red-hot loads demand equipment that can withstand extreme temperatures while ensuring safe and efficient operation.

A foundry in Italy needed to move scorching hot steel bars that were long and weighed thousands of kilos. They were also square-shaped with a unique profile that required a unique lifting solution.

The Situation

The project had several challenges:

A Unique Solution

RUD has been in the lifting business for years and knows steel like the back of our hand. So, we took our knowledge of high-quality clamps and chains and devised a custom system to handle this hot situation.

Game Change for the Client

This custom system has been a game-changer for the foundry, improving operations on the floor. It moves the steel bars with ease, keeping things efficient while prioritising operator safety. This project is a perfect example of how RUD combines high-quality lifting components with custom-designed solutions. This tailored approach sets RUD apart from the competition. We don't just sell products; we deliver solutions for even the most challenging high-temperature lifting situations.

This project shows our commitment to exceeding customer expectations. By combining our expertise in lifting with a dedication to custom design, we ensure safety, efficiency, and happy customers, no matter how hot the job gets.

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

Article copyright to RUD Group and RUD Australia. This information is accurate at the time of publication, and RUD Australia takes no responsibility for any errors, inadvertent or otherwise. Some pictures are shown for illustration only.

Introduction:

Germany, with 34 million tons of cement production, is Europe's leading cement producer*. When TBA, a renowned concrete supplier needed assistance to lift the roof of a concrete silo used for an infrastructure project, they turned to RUD.

The Challenge:

The project required lifting and placing a roof on top of a silo located near Unterkochen.

The project presented several challenges for the lifting operation:

The Solution:

Due to the heavy lift and the lifting configuration, RUD engineers proposed that a 13mm, 2 x 2-strand ICE 120 chain was ideal for the operation. To maintain the chain's working load limit (WLL) within safe parameters, it was calculated that a minimum length of 6.402 meters was required for low sling angles.

However, there were only 2 x 7-metre 2-strand chains and 2 x 4-metre chains in stock. Instead of postponing the project to another date, we decided to use IH (ICE-H) Connectors to extend the 4-metre chains.

The I-H Connectors are a fast, simple, and cost-effective solution for converting ICE chains into endless configurations. They are compact, easier to manage than conventional chain connectors, and flexible enough to fit the ICE chain.

Once the chains were extended to the necessary length, ICE Star Hooks were attached to the chain ends. Due to their innovative skeletal design, ICE Star Hooks can be used in temperatures from -60°C to 300°C and are up to 25% lighter than Grade 80 hooks of the same WLL.

This solution enabled a safe and secure lift of the silo roof. The roof was lifted to its final height of 35 meters above ground for the final assembly.

Products used in the project:

Conclusion:

This project demonstrates how RUD's innovative lifting solutions, such as the flexible ICE Chains, can solve complex lifting challenges. RUD is the innovator and sets standards for lifting technologies through expertise and flexible solutions to ensure safe and successful operation even in challenging conditions.

* The European Cement Association. Key Facts & Figures: Main World Producers in 2018; The European Cement Association: Brussels, Belgium, 2020

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

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

Identifying Chain Grades:

Chains are stamped with their grade for easy identification. Grades 80 and 100 use the "(H)" stamp followed by the number (e.g., H8 for Grade 80, H10 for Grade 100). However, Grade 120 employs the "(D)" stamp. It is important to point out here that unlike lifting chains, hoist chains cannot be used for lifting and are stamped with letters to prevent potentially dangerous mix-ups.

Safety Certifications and Testing:

Safety is paramount. Always opt for chains approved by relevant regulatory bodies (e.g., DGUV in Germany). Traceability through batch codes and RFID chips (offered by RUD) is also recommended. Regular inspections and electromagnetic crack tests (every three years) are essential for safety assurance.

Choosing the Right Lifting Chain:

Selecting the right chain hinges on several factors.

RUD will help you with the best chain suspension for lifting based on the following:

 

Conclusion:

By understanding the types, grades, and applications of lifting chains, you can ensure safe and efficient lifting operations. Remember to prioritise safety by adhering to regulations, conducting proper inspections, and selecting the most suitable chain for your specific needs.

Click here to download our Lifting Points and Lifting Means Catalogues.

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. Some pictures are for illustration only.

This is a 2 part article.

The age-old proverb, "A chain is only as strong as its weakest link," first used in Thomas Reid’s “Essays on the Intellectual Powers of Man” in 1786, perfectly encapsulates the critical role of lifting chains in material handling. This article delves into the world of lifting chains, exploring their types, grades, uses, and essential safety considerations.

What are Lifting Chains?

Lifting chains are crucial connectors between a load and a lifting hook. They are typically secured to a designated lifting point on the load, ensuring safe and secure lifting. Lifting chains form part of chain suspensions, which, along with the chains, include a master link, end components like hooks, connecting or shortening components and balancers if required.

Evolution of Lifting Chains:

Modern lifting chains have significantly improved compared to their predecessors. While past chains suffered from low material strength and cumbersome weight, today's chains offer high strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness, making them the preferred choice for lifting and lashing applications. They also weigh considerably less for the same WLL (Working Load Limit), which is beneficial when lifting heavy loads.

Types of Lifting Equipment:

While wire rope and synthetic slings offer alternative lifting options, they have limitations, particularly in terms of adjustability, susceptibility to sharp edges, and performance under extreme temperatures.

Lifting chains stand out with their:

Choosing the Right Chain Grade:

Several chain grades (Grade 80, 100, 120) exist, each with its own WLL (Working Load Limit). Selecting the appropriate grade is crucial for safety and efficiency.

Grade 80: This has been in existence since 1970. It is very popular in some parts of the world because it offers affordability. However, it has a lower breaking force and weight limitation.

Tip: RUD was the first chain manufacturer, approved for Grade 80 in 1972

Grade 100: It has been in existence for the last 30 years and is popularly used by many operators. It is a step up over Grade 80 and provides a balance between cost and performance.

Tip: RUD launched Grade 100 as VIP (Verwechslungsfrei in Pink) in 2006, and it is still a popular product used in many lifting applications. Click here for more details on the RUD VIP Grade 100.

Grade 120: Grade 120 is the latest and strongest grade, offering lighter weight and higher breaking force than Grade 80. Exclusive to a few manufacturers (including RUD).

Tip: Grade 120 offers a 30% reduction in weight than Grade 80 because it uses less material. It also possesses a 60% higher breaking force than a Grade 80 chain, and it is extremely robust, tough, and resilient to sharp and rough edges.

What this means is that an ICE Grade 120 Lifting or Lashing Chain - no matter the nominal thickness - can replace a Grade 80 chain of a next-higher nominal thickness.

Click here for more details on RUD ICE 120 Chains.

To be continued ...

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. Some pictures are for illustration only.

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