Blog
Blog
HOME > Blog >

13mm & 16mm Lifting Chains: Sizes, Uses & Safety | TOPONE®

Published on: Mar  27, 2025 | Source: chen | Hits: 0

Selecting the correct size of lifting chain ensures safety, efficiency, and conformity during heavy-load operations. Ranging from 13mm lifting chains for medium-duty operations to 16mm lifting chains for industrial rigging, each size has its particular application. Let us take apart their advantages, applications, and why TOPONE® alloy steel chains outshine the rest.


Key Sizes & Load Capacities

13mm Lifting Chains: Medium-Duty Load Strength

Working Load Limit (WLL): ~3,200 kg (7,055 lbs).

Applications: Ideal for machinery lifts, construction equipment, and 3/8 load chain alternatives for trucking.

Features: TOPONE® 13mm lifting chains have heat-treated alloy steel and corrosion-resistant coatings.

16mm Lifting Chain: Industrial Rigging for Heavy-Duty Use

WLL: ~6,300 kg (13,889 lbs).

Applications: Lifting steel beams or concrete slabs, shipbuilding, and mining.

Durability: Resists abrasion and low-high temperature (-40°C to 200°C).

3/8 Lifting Chain: Light to Medium Load Versatility

WLL: ~1,000 kg (2,205 lbs).

Applications: 3/8 tie down chain secures cargo during transport, and 3/8 load chain is used in conjunction with hoists.

Flexibility: Adjustable hooks and shackles for dynamic rigging setups.

3/4 Lifting Chain: Covering Medium & Heavy Lifts

With a WLL of ~8,200 kg (18,078 lbs), the 3/4 lifting chain does the following:

Offshore mooring operations.

Crane systems in production facilities.

High-frequency lifts in logistics centers.

TOPONE® 3/4 chains are available with Grade 80 alloy steel and EN818-2 standards.

Safety Tips for Chain Sizes of All Types

Match Chain to Load: Don't overload the WLL (25% of break strength).

Inspect Regularly: Check 13mm or 16mm chains used for lifting for rust, cracks, and wear.

Proper Accessories: Pair 3/8 tie down chains with ratchet binders for safe transportation.

Prevent Sharp Edges: Wrap chains using sleeves in severe working conditions.

For OSHA-approved rigging, find TOPONE®'s safety guidelines.

Safety Rules for All Chain Lengths

Match Chain to Load: Never overload more than WLL (25% of break strength).

Inspect Regularly: Check 13mm or 16mm chains for wear, cracks, and rust.

Use Proper Accessories: Utilize 3/8 tie down chains with ratchet binders for secure transport.

Avoid Sharp Edges: Sleeve chains in abrasive conditions.

For OSHA-safe rigging, refer to TOPONE's safety procedures.

Why TOPONE Chains Excel Above Others

Alloy Steel Construction: Chromium, nickel, and molybdenum G80 chains for 4x safety factors.

Custom Sizes: 13mm, 16mm, 3/8, and 3/4 electroplated or galvanized lifting chains.

Certified Quality: EN818-2, ASME B30.9, and ISO 9001 certification.

Cost Efficiency: Longer life than comparative chains means less cost to replace.

Find our 13mm lifting chains or 16mm lifting chains for industrial quality solutions.

 

Upgrade to TOPONE®’s precision-engineered lifting chains—Request a Quote today!

Our chains are mostly exported to more than 30 countries
both in European and Asian markets.