The Ultra-Maxx HMPE Round Slings are a game-changer for the Lifting and Rigging industry. They are transforming the way of approaching lifting tasks. These slings, made from continuous loops of HMPE fibres encased in a durable, double-layer cover, bring a host of benefits that make them stand out in a crowded field of lifting equipment. Ashley Thacker, General Manager of Ranger Lifting, explains more about Ultra-Maxx HPA slings.
HMPE fibres are a powerhouse in the world of materials science. Classified as one of the strongest fibres globally, HMPE is significantly lighter than traditional materials like polyester and wire rope. This unique combination of strength and weight makes HMPE slings a top choice for rigging professionals. The material’s inherent strength allows HMPE slings to exhibit 75 per cent less elongation than their polyester counterparts. This reduced stretch enhances manoeuvrability and control, contributing to a safer and more efficient work environment.
Ashley Thacker, general manager of leading lifting equipment supplier Ranger Lifting, says HMPE has revolutionised lifting, rigging and towing cultures.
“HMPE round slings have much greater residual strength long into the life of the slings, and when used properly, can outlast other types of slings,” he said.
“In my opinion Australian manufacturing of round slings has basically gone, with almost everything now being imported, but there are still plenty of HMPE slings manufactured here.”
Ashley said Ranger spent “some time” examining various manufacturers of HMPE slings around the world before deciding the Ultra-Maxx range of HMPE slings were the best way forward.
“We have tested the Ultra-Maxx product and its performance and quality are just as good as anything you will find locally; the main difference is the cost,” he said.
“Ultra-Maxx HMPE slings are priced competitively which enables me to hold plenty of stock. I’m going to be stocking up to 200 tonne, 15 metre slings and to get a 200 tonne, 15 metre HPME sling from a local manufacturer or imported is going to be weeks. That’s why we wanted to be in this market,” said Ashley.
From a weight perspective, the HMPE fibre is 15 times stronger than steel wire rope of the same weight. This highly advanced synthetic fibre allows the operator to achieve the same working load limit (WLL) with a sling that is about 80 per cent lighter.
This means that it is easy to handle lifting slings made of HMPE, even when compared to standard polyester slings. HMPE slings are about 60 per cent lighter than standard polyester slings with the same WLL.
The reduction in size and weight leads to increased portability and easier handling, and their flexibility allows for the precise positioning of loads – reducing the likelihood of accidents.
In addition, HMPE also has high resistance to UV radiation and chemicals and withstands cutting wear better than polyester and other synthetic fibres.
Together, these improve rig productivity by requiring fewer personnel and being easier to use as a result of their smaller size, when compared to polyester slings.
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“HMPE slings are four times the price of a round sling, but in the long run they prove to be far more economical,” Ashley says.
“We’ve got D/D ratios so we know what you can, and can’t do, with the various sling weights. We’re setting out the specifics which you won’t see from local manufacturers either, typically they don’t like providing that information in case something’s wrong.”
“We’ve completed a lot of testing and we’re building our stocks on a daily basis. That’s a process that can’t be rushed. If you buy 30 slings that’s going to be $200,000 worth of stock,” said Ashley.
