How many grade of steel chain
There are various grades of steel chain available on the market, each with different characteristics and suitable for different applications. The most commonly used grades of steel chains are:
- 1.Grade 30: This is a general-purpose, low carbon steel chain with a tensile strength of 2,650 pounds per square inch (psi). It’s commonly used in towing, logging, and general utility applications.
- 2.Grade 43: This is a high-strength, medium carbon steel chain with a tensile strength of 4,300 psi. It’s commonly used in transportation and tie-down applications.
- 3.Grade 70: This is a high-strength, heat-treated carbon steel chain with a tensile strength of 7,000 psi. It’s commonly used in the transportation industry, particularly for securing cargo and equipment.
- 4.Grade 80: This is a high-strength, heat-treated alloy steel chain with a tensile strength of 8,800 psi. It’s commonly used in overhead lifting applications and heavy-duty transportation.
- 5.Grade 100: This is the strongest, heat-treated alloy steel chain with a tensile strength of 10,000 psi. It’s commonly used in overhead lifting applications and heavy-duty transportation.
It’s important to choose the appropriate grade of steel chain for your intended use to ensure safety and reliability. Always refer to the manufacturer’s specifications and safety guidelines when selecting a chain for your application.
How to test steel chain grade
Testing the grade of a steel chain typically involves determining its tensile strength. Tensile strength is the maximum amount of stress that a chain can withstand before breaking. The test can be performed using a tensile testing machine, which applies a gradually increasing force to the chain until it breaks.
Here are the steps to test the grade of a steel chain:
Determine the chain’s working load limit (WLL) or breaking strength, which can typically be found on the chain’s label or specification sheet.
Choose a sample section of the chain that is at least 6 inches in length and is not visibly damaged.
Place the chain in the tensile testing machine and secure it firmly in place.
Begin applying force to the chain, starting at a low level and gradually increasing the force until the chain breaks.
Record the force required to break the chain, which is the tensile strength.
Compare the tensile strength to the WLL or breaking strength of the chain to determine if it meets the grade requirements.
It’s important to note that testing the grade of a steel chain should only be performed by a qualified professional with the appropriate equipment and training. Improper testing can result in injury or damage to the equipment. Additionally, other factors such as the condition and age of the chain can affect its strength, so regular inspection and maintenance are also important to ensure the safety and reliability of the chain.