What is Grade 80 Lifting Chain? A Complete Guide

Grade 80 lifting chain (also known as T-grade chain) is the most widely used chain grade for overhead lifting applications worldwide. Its combination of strength, durability, and affordability makes it the default choice for chain slings, overhead cranes, and material handling equipment.

In this guide, we explain what Grade 80 chain is, how it compares to other grades, and how to select the right chain for your lifting application.

What Does "Grade 80" Mean?

The grade number refers to the chain's minimum breaking load in megapascals (MPa). Grade 80 chain has a minimum breaking stress of 800 MPa. In practical terms, this means Grade 80 chain is strong enough for overhead lifting and has a safety factor of 4:1 (the chain can hold 4 times its working load limit before failure).

Grade 80 chain is manufactured from special alloy steel (chrome-nickel-molybdenum) and undergoes heat treatment to achieve its strength properties. Each link is welded using advanced flash-welding technology for consistent quality.

Chain Grade Comparison

• Grade 30 (3): Low-carbon steel, for tie-downs and load binding only. NOT for overhead lifting.
• Grade 70 (7): Heat-treated carbon steel, for transport chains and tire chains. NOT for overhead lifting.
• Grade 80 (8): Alloy steel, for overhead lifting, chain slings, and hoists. Industry standard.
• Grade 100 (10): Higher-strength alloy steel, 25% stronger than Grade 80 for the same diameter. Used in demanding lifting applications where weight reduction is important.

Related: View our lifting chain range ¡ú

How to Identify Grade 80 Chain

Grade 80 chain is marked with a series of identifiers stamped into every link or every second link:

• The number "8" or "80" (grade designation)
• Manufacturer's identification mark
• Chain size in mm
• Country of origin

When to Choose Grade 80 vs Grade 100

Grade 80 is the standard for most general lifting applications and offers the best value. Choose Grade 100 when:

• You need higher capacity from the same chain size
• Weight reduction is critical (Grade 100 chain can be one size smaller for the same capacity)
• You operate in high-wear environments and need maximum durability

Inspection and Replacement

Regular inspection is critical for safe chain use. Replace chain if you find:

• Link elongation exceeding 5% of original length
• Any crack, nick, gouge, or deformation
• Wear exceeding 10% of original link diameter
• Heat damage (discoloration from welding or fire exposure)
• Stretched or distorted links