Synthetic slings
UHMWPE round slings
A round sling with a core of UHMWPE fibre: far lighter than a steel wire rope sling for the same lift, soft to handle and free of corrosion. Here is where it beats steel, where it does not, and what to ask for.
The sling
What a UHMWPE round sling is
The load is carried by a core of UHMWPE (HMPE) — sold under brand names such as Dyneema®, Spectra®, Plateena®, Plasma®. The fibre is laid as continuous loops inside a protective cover, which keeps out grit, takes the abrasion and carries the label.
Sealinkers was the first company in India to bring Dyneema (UHMWPE) into the lifting and rigging industry, in 2008.
Where it beats steel
- Weight. For the same lift the sling weighs far less than steel wire rope, so it is carried and rigged by hand.
- Handling. It is soft and flexible, has no broken wires to cut hands and is kind to finished surfaces.
- No corrosion. The fibre does not rust, so the sling suits wet, marine and offshore work.
Compare the weights in the HMPE vs steel rope weight comparator.
Where it does not
- Heat. UHMWPE loses strength at temperatures steel takes in its stride. Keep it away from hot work and hot surfaces, and check the maker’s temperature limit.
- Sharp edges. The fibre cuts. Protect every edge with sleeves or corner pads.
- Creep under sustained load. Held under load for a long time, UHMWPE slowly stretches. It suits lifting; long static holding needs the maker’s rating for it. HMPE creep explained.
What to ask for
Standards
Current edition of IS 11928 (round slings) and EN 1492-2 by analogy; ask for the manufacturer’s test certificate.
Range
Capacities and lengths
Sent with your quote — Zebra’s range sheet is being added to this page.
Frequently asked questions
Are UHMWPE and HMPE different materials?
No. UHMWPE (HMPE) — sold under brand names such as Dyneema®, Spectra®, Plateena®, Plasma® — is one fibre under several names. The rating of a sling comes from its label and test certificate, whichever brand the fibre is.
Can a UHMWPE sling replace a wire rope sling?
Often, where weight and handling matter and the load has no sharp edges and no heat. Tell us the load, the hitch and the length, and we quote a sling rated for the lift.
How hot can a UHMWPE sling get?
Its working temperature limit is lower than that of a polyester or steel sling. Check the limit in the maker's data, and keep the sling away from hot work and hot surfaces.
What capacities and lengths do you supply?
Capacities and lengths are sent with your quote. Zebra's range sheet is being added to this page.
Need a UHMWPE sling?
Send the load, the hitch and the length — we quote with lead time and test certificate.