Which of the following statements about chain costs relative to wire rope is true?

The statement that chain costs more and has only 5% of the expected service life compared to wire rope highlights important considerations in the selection of rigging equipment. While chain may have a higher initial cost than wire rope, its service life can be considerably shorter due to factors such as wear, abrasion, and exposure to environmental elements.

Chains are often made of heavy-duty materials that can withstand substantial loads, but they are also subject to factors that can lead to failure or degradation over time. In comparison, wire rope has properties such as flexibility and the ability to absorb shock loads, which can contribute to a longer service life in certain applications.

Understanding these nuances helps justify the higher cost of chain when considering its durability in specific contexts, especially under heavy or constant loading conditions, where the longevity of equipment is crucial. Always considering the expected lifespan and usage conditions of the rigging system will ensure safe and effective operations in lifting applications.