Increasing Sling Capacity: The Power of Basket Hitch

The Power of Basket Hitch in Lifting and Rigging

The type of hitch that doubles the capacity of the sling is known as the basket hitch. In lifting and rigging, the basket hitch evenly distributes the load across the width of the sling. This is different from a straightforward vertical lift, where the entire load is supported at a single point on the sling. While a vertical lift uses the basic rated capacity of the sling, when configured as a basket hitch, the sling can often support up to twice this amount, because the load is spread and both sides of the sling are utilized equally. However, it's important to note that the actual increase in capacity will depend on the angle of the sling and the distribution of the load.

For safety and efficiency, correct rigging practices must be followed, and the sling manufacturer's guidelines should be strictly adhered to when attempting to double the capacity using a basket hitch. Factors such as the sling material, the shape of the load, and the lifting environment must be considered to prevent accidents and equipment damage.