What does the annealing effect of heat do to chain slings?

The annealing effect of heat on chain slings can lead to a permanent reduction in their rated load capacity. During the annealing process, metal is heated to a certain temperature and then cooled, which alters its microstructure. While this process can improve some properties, it can also weaken the material, making it less capable of supporting heavy loads.

When chain slings are subjected to high temperatures, the heat can change the crystalline structure of the metal, resulting in a loss of strength. This is especially important for chains that are designed to handle specific loads safely. Once the integrity of the chain has been compromised due to annealing, it cannot return to its original strength, and thus the rated load must be permanently reduced to ensure safety in lifting applications.

It's important for operators to be aware of this effect when using heat-treated components like chain slings, as their performance will not be the same after experiencing significant heat exposure.