What is the maximum load that a sling fails at referred to as?

The term that describes the maximum load at which a sling fails is known as breaking strength. Breaking strength refers specifically to the maximum amount of force or weight that a sling can physically withstand before it breaks or fails. This measurement is crucial for riggers, as it helps ensure that the equipment used can handle the loads safely and effectively during lifting operations.

Working load limit (WLL) relates to the maximum weight that a sling can safely lift during normal operations, which is typically a fraction of the breaking strength to account for safety margins. Safety factor is a concept used in engineering to describe how much stronger a system is than it needs to be for an intended load, providing an additional layer of safety beyond just the breaking strength. Load capacity is a broader term that encompasses any limits set for equipment under certain conditions but does not specifically define the failure point of a sling.

Understanding the breaking strength is vital for planning lifts, as it helps prevent the use of equipment beyond its designed limits, ensuring safety in rigging operations.