Nylon and polyester web slings are the gentle hands of rigging — light, flexible, and non-marring on machined surfaces, painted steel, and finished equipment. Their limits are just as defined as their strengths: edges, heat, and chemistry.

Nylon vs Polyester

The two webbings look identical and rate identically size-for-size. Nylon stretches more (~8–10% at rated load), shrugging off shock loading, and resists alkalis — but loses strength wet and is attacked by acids. Polyester stretches less (~3%), holds loads with less bounce, resists acids and bleaching agents — but is attacked by alkalis. Match the fiber to the plant chemistry; when in doubt in acid environments, polyester wins.

Types & Eye Styles

Type 3 (flat eye) and Type 4 (twisted eye — better for choking) cover most work; Type 5 endless slings rotate wear points for long life; Type 1 and 2 use triangle/choker hardware for high-wear service. Widths from 1" to 12" and one to four plies scale capacity — always read the tag, since capacity varies by ply and brand.

Capacity by Hitch

Same hitch rules as all slings: choker ≈ 80% of vertical for web, basket = 200% with vertical legs, and sling angle reductions apply (60° = 87%, 45° = 71%, 30° = 50%). The tag lists all three ratings — rig from the tag.

The Edge Rule

Cut protection is the difference between a routine lift and a dropped load: synthetic slings fail suddenly when cut, and an unpadded steel edge can sever a loaded sling instantly. Use wear pads, corner protectors, or sleeves at every edge contact — no exceptions — and position seams and tags away from load contact.

Inspection & Removal Criteria

Per ASME B30.9, remove from service for: missing/illegible tag, cuts or snags exposing red core warning yarns, holes, tears, abrasion, broken stitching in load-bearing splices, knots, melting or charring, chemical damage (stiff, discolored areas), and UV degradation (bleached, brittle webbing). Web slings are inexpensive — when in doubt, cut it up and throw it out so it can't return to service.

Temperature Limit

Nylon and polyester are both limited to 194°F. Hot work, steam lines, and freshly welded fabrications call for wire rope or chain instead.

Web Slings, Priced Fast

Standard and custom web slings in all types, widths, and plies — with edge protection to go with them. Put type, width, length, and capacity into the quote form at the top of this page — quotes answered during business hours.