Which of these materials is NOT typically used for making chains?

Chains are crucial components in various rigging and hoisting applications, designed to bear heavy loads under tension. The material used for making chains must provide strength, durability, and resistance to wear, which is why certain materials are favored.

Plastic is not typically used for making chains due to its relatively low tensile strength and inability to withstand heavy loads. While plastic can be durable in some applications, it does not have the necessary properties to function effectively as a chain in rigging and hoisting contexts, where the demands for safety and reliability are paramount.

In contrast, steel alloys are commonly utilized in chain manufacturing because they offer high strength and resistance to bending and breaking. Copper is also a material known for its corrosion resistance and conductivity, though it may be used less frequently for heavy-duty chains compared to steel. Aluminum can be used for chains, particularly in applications where weight is a significant concern, although it may not provide the same strength as steel in heavy-load situations.

Thus, plastic stands out as the material that does not meet the required criteria for making chains suitable for rigging and hoisting.