If you work in lifting, rigging, or material handling, you've likely come across the term "Grade 80" or "G80" chain. It's one of the most common grades of lifting chain used worldwide, but what exactly makes it different from other chains, and how do you know when it's the right choice?
In this article, we explain everything you need to know about Grade 80 lifting chain —from its material properties to load ratings, inspection requirements, and how it compares to other grades.
What is Grade 80 Chain?
Grade 80 (G80) is a heat-treated alloy steel chain designed specifically for overhead lifting applications. The "80" refers to the grade's minimum breaking strength requirement of 80 N/mm². G80 chain is manufactured according to international standards including DIN 5688-8, ISO 3077, and AS 2321.
Key characteristics of G80 chain:
- Material: Alloy steel (typically 20Mn2 or 23MnNiCrMo54)
- Heat treatment: Quenched and tempered for optimal strength and toughness
- Safety factor: 4:1 (breaking load is 4× the working load limit)
- Color: Usually gold or yellow-zinc plated for corrosion resistance
- Markings: "80" or "G80" stamped at regular intervals along the chain
Grade 80 vs Grade 100: What's the Difference?
Grade 100 (G100) is the next step up from G80, offering approximately 25% higher working load limit for the same chain diameter. Here's a comparison:
| Feature | Grade 80 (G80) | Grade 100 (G100) |
|---|---|---|
| Min. Breaking Strength | 80 N/mm² | 100 N/mm² |
| Safety Factor | 4:1 | 4:1 |
| WLL 10mm chain | 2,500 kg | 3,200 kg |
| Weight per meter | Standard | Slightly lighter for same capacity |
| Cost | Lower | Higher (15–5% premium) |
| Common Use | General lifting, chain slings | Weight-critical applications, heavy lifting |
Working Load Limits (WLL) for Grade 80 Chain
The working load limit is the maximum safe load the chain can handle in straight (vertical) lift configuration. Here are standard values for common chain sizes:
| Chain Diameter (mm) | WLL (kg) | Breaking Load (kg) | Weight (kg/m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7.1 | 1,120 | 4,480 | 1.16 |
| 8 | 1,500 | 6,000 | 1.50 |
| 10 | 2,500 | 10,000 | 2.35 |
| 13 | 4,000 | 16,000 | 4.00 |
| 16 | 6,300 | 25,200 | 6.00 |
| 20 | 10,000 | 40,000 | 9.40 |
When Should You Choose Grade 80 Chain?
G80 is the standard choice for most lifting applications because it offers the best balance of strength, durability, and cost. Use G80 when:
- You need a reliable, certified lifting chain for general use
- You're building chain slings for overhead crane lifting
- Weight savings are not critical (if they are, consider G100)
- Your loads fall within the standard WLL for the chain size
- You want broad compatibility with standard G80 fittings and hooks
Inspection of Lifting Chains
All lifting chains must be inspected regularly. Remove chain from service if you find:
- Elongation exceeding 5% of original length over any 20-pitch section
- Cracks, nicks, or gouges on the surface
- Bent, twisted, or kinked links
- Wear exceeding 10% of the original diameter
- Corrosion pitting or heat damage (discoloration from overheating)
Need High-Quality Lifting Chains?
Yulong Technology offers Grade 80 and Grade 100 lifting chains with full test certification. Contact us for specifications, pricing, and chain sling assemblies.
Inquire Now →For more details, visit our lifting chain product page.