How to Choose the Right Lifting Chain Diameter

Choose chain size by load, WLL, grade and sling configuration—not by diameter alone.

Choosing the right lifting chain diameter starts with understanding the actual lifting requirement. A thicker chain generally provides a higher Working Load Limit (WLL) within the same grade, but diameter alone does not determine how much a lifting chain can safely carry.

The correct selection should follow a simple sequence:

Load → Sling Configuration → Chain Grade → WLL → Chain Diameter

First, determine the maximum load and whether the application requires a single-leg or multi-leg chain sling. For multi-leg slings, the sling angle must also be considered because increasing the angle from vertical increases the tension in each leg.

Chain grade is equally important. Grade 80 and Grade 100 lifting chains can have different WLLs even when they have the same nominal diameter. For example, a 10 mm Grade 80 chain and a 10 mm Grade 100 chain should not be assumed to have the same lifting capacity.

Common lifting chain diameters include 6 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm, 13 mm, 16 mm and 20 mm, with larger sizes available for higher-capacity applications. However, these dimensions should never be used as a universal capacity guide.

Once the required load, sling configuration and chain grade are known, check the manufacturer's WLL table and select a chain diameter whose rated capacity meets the lifting requirement.

The key principle is simple: select WLL first and chain diameter second. This avoids both undersizing and unnecessary oversizing while ensuring the chain is properly matched to the lifting application.