Grade 80 vs Grade 100

To start with

In our industry, we deal with this every day. More and more people are becoming aware of the different materials in circulation. In the world of safe lifting, it’s also becoming clearer which materials can still be used – and which can no longer be relied on.

For lifting accessories such as chains, eyebolts and lifting hooks, the rule is quite simple. Under normal temperatures and conditions, you should use at least Grade 80 or Grade 100 materials. The reason is straightforward: these materials fall under the category of "non-ageing steel." In other words, Grade 80 and Grade 100 materials are not subject to metal fatigue. This provides a higher level of operational safety, but that's not all.

From a technical point of view

Grade 80 was introduced in 1970 as a new type of steel, made from a chromium-nickel-molybdenum (Cr-Ni-Mo) alloy that is hardened and stress-relieved. A requirement for this composition to be classified as Grade 80 is that at least 2 of the 3 metals must be present in specified proportions.

The term "Grade" indicates the nominal breaking strength of the material, expressed in Newtons per mm2. For Grade 80, this is 800 N/mm².

Expectations for this type of steel are high. It is designed to retain its strength and toughness thanks to its specific heat treatment. Fatigue is the key concept here. The parts must undergo fatigue tests consisting of 20,000 cycles under their rated load before they can be branded as Grade 80.

Grade 100: the next step

More than 30 years later, Grade 100 was introduced as the logical successor to Grade 80. By then, techniques had advanced to the point where a lifting capacity increase of no less than 25% could be achieved while keeping the same diameter. In practical terms, this means that with the same chain diameter, the user gains 25% more lifting capacity thanks to Grade 100.

The German Berufsgenossenschaften (BG) defined a set of specifications for all Grade 100 components. Gunnebo's GrabiQ range was subsequently approved in line with these new standards. Gunnebo was one of the first companies in the world to meet these criteria, and has since marked all its GrabiQ components as Grade 100.

But, be careful! Some suppliers offer eyebolts or eye nuts in accordance with DIN 580 and 582, claiming they are made from 8.8 material. This can give the impression that they are the same as Grade 80. Nothing could be further from the truth. Only products that are officially certified and marked as Grade 80 may be sold under that designation.

Grade 80 or Grade 100: expert advice for your choice

Not sure whether to choose Grade 80 or Grade 100 lifting chains? The right choice depends on several factors, including working load, weight, frequency of use and the working environment.

Call in our experts »

Grade 80 vs Grade 100

To start with

From a technical point of view

Grade 100: the next step

Grade 80 or Grade 100: expert advice for your choice

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