Lifting Chain Types Explained: Grades, Features, and Best Applications

When it comes to heavy lifting, nothing says “I’ve got you” like a good Lifting Chain. Strong, reliable, and built for real-world brutality, lifting chains are the unsung heroes behind construction sites, factories, shipyards，and anywhere people ask machines to do the impossible.
But not all chains are created equal — some are strong, some are stronger, and some… are Grade 120 and basically showing off.

In this guide, we break down the different chain grades, their features, and the best applications for each. And yes, we’ll keep it fun, because rigging doesn’t have to be boring.

What Makes a Lifting Chain “Grade” Anyway?

A chain’s grade is basically its “power level.”
The higher the number, the stronger and more heat-treated the material is. In simple terms：

• Low grade = soft and weak

• High grade = strong and spicy

Your job? Pick the right grade so the load stays in the air — not on someone’s toes.

Grade 80: The Classic Workhorse

The Grade 80 Lifting Chain is the dependable old friend who never lets you down.
It’s tough, versatile, and approved for overhead lifting, making it the go-to choice in many industries.

Features

• High-strength alloy steel

• Great durability under repetitive load

• Heat-treated for improved performance

• Works perfectly with Chain Sling assemblies

Best Applications

• Construction lifting

• Foundries and steel mills

• General industrial lifting

• Heavy machinery handling

If rigging had a “most loyal employee award,” Grade 80 would win it every year.

Grade 100: The Upgraded Beast

Next up is Grade 100 Lifting Chain — stronger, lighter, and more efficient than Grade 80.
It’s like switching from a regular pickup truck to a turbo-charged diesel monster.

Features

• Higher load capacity at same chain size

• Greater strength-to-weight ratio

• Better resistance to wear

• Ideal for demanding environments

Best Applications

• Rigging operations requiring lighter gear

• Heavy construction

• Offshore and marine lifting

• High-frequency lifting tasks

Grade 100 is great when you need more power without more chain bulk.

Grade 120: The Overachiever

Ah yes… Grade 120 Lifting Chain — the superstar of chain grades.
Stronger, tougher, and usually painted a bold color because it can.

Features

• Up to 50% stronger than Grade 80

• Excellent resistance to harsh environments

• Lighter than comparable lower grades

• Maximum efficiency in extreme lifting tasks

Best Applications

• Mining

• Extreme heavy lifting

• Steel production facilities

• Any place where “just enough” is not enough

Grade 120 is practically flexing on everyone else.

So Which Grade Should You Choose?

A quick cheat sheet:

When you need dependable performance → Grade 80
When you want stronger but lighter → Grade 100
When the job is insane → Grade 120

Why Lifting Chains Still Win Over Other Tools

Even with alternatives like wire rope and synthetic slings, the Lifting Chain remains king because：

• They handle shock loads better

• They resist heat and chemicals

• They’re repairable — just replace a damaged link

• They adapt easily to different Chain Sling configurations

Simply put: they’re strong, customizable, and not afraid of tough love.

Final Thoughts: Know Your Grade, Lift Like a Pro

Choosing the right lifting chain is half safety and half strategy.
Get the grade right, and your job gets easier. Get it wrong… well, your safety officer won’t be pleased.

Whether you’re lifting beams, machinery, steel plates, or giant “why-is-this-so-heavy” objects, understanding chain grades helps you pick the perfect tool for the job.

Ready to explore more gear or upgrade your lifting setup?
You know where to go — your reliable Lifting Chain experts have you covered.

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