Sling arrangements

Numerous sling arrangements have been devised. This discussion covers the single choker, double choker, bridle, single basket, and double basket hitch.

The single choker (not to be confused with double choker hitch) can also be doubled up as shown to provide twice the capacity or to turn a load.

When it is necessary to turn a load, the choker is made by placing both eyes of the sling on top of the load with eyes pointing in the direction opposite to the direction of turn. The center of the sling is passed around the load, through both eyes, and up to the hook.

The hitch provides complete control over the load during the entire turning operation, and the load automatically equalizes between the two supporting legs of the sling. Because the load is turned into a tight sling, there is no movement between the load and the sling.

If it is incorrectly made and the two eyes are placed on the crane hook, the supporting legs of the sling may not be equal in length and the load may be imposed on one leg only.

A double choker hitch consists of two single chokers attached to the load and spread to provide load stability. They, like the single choker, do NOT completely grip the load. However, because the load is less likely to tip, they are better suited for handling loads like loose bundles, pipes, or rods.

They provide excellent load stability when the load is distributed equally among the legs (when the hook is directly over the center of gravity of the load and the load is raised level).

In order to distribute the load equally, it may be necessary to adjust the leg lengths with turnbuckles. Bridle slings require that the sling angles be carefully determined to ensure that the individual legs are not overloaded.