Answers for lift supervisors and rigging leads
We compiled the most common questions we hear when engineering teams explore simulation-backed lift planning.
How accurate is Sling Calc's sling load calculator?
Sling Calc uses physics-based calculations, not predictions. With good inputs, results typically match standard rigging formulas within a few percent.
What deliverables do you provide?
You receive 3D visualization of multi‑sling lifts (sling angles and load distribution). We also generate a comprehensive PDF report for printing and documentation.
Do you work with on-site engineers?
Absolutely. We integrate directly with your in-house or third-party engineering teams to validate assumptions, share models, and co-author lift plans.
How do I interpret the force visualization arrows?
The colored arrows show force directions and magnitudes. Red arrows indicate high forces that may exceed safe limits, yellow shows caution zones, and green indicates expected operating ranges. Arrow length represents force magnitude - longer arrows mean higher forces.
What is the load factor setting and when should I change it?
Load factor accounts for dynamic effects during lifting. The default 1.0 is for static lifts. Each international code or standard requires you apply certain load factors for each lift. Check with your engineer to determine the appropriate load factor for your specific lift scenario.
Can I switch between metric and imperial units?
Yes! SlingCalc supports both metric (tonnes, meters) and imperial (tons, feet) units. Use the unit toggle in the top navigation to switch. All calculations automatically convert to maintain accuracy across unit systems.
What does the stability region visualization show?
The stability region is a guide and shows where the crane hook can be positioned while maintaining load balance. If the hook moves outside this region, the load may tilt or become unstable. This helps riggers plan safe hook positioning before lifting.
How do I adjust individual sling positions?
Use the 'Sling Offsets' section in the control panel to fine-tune each sling position. You can move slings relative to the load corners to optimize angles and balance. The system shows real-time force changes as you adjust positions.
How do I adjust hook position?
Use the preset buttons such as 'origin', which sets it to the coordinate (0,0), 'COG', which sets it to the current COG location, or `60 degrees`, which changes the hook height such that the minimum sling angle is 60 degrees. You can also manually enter X, Y, and Z coordinates for precise positioning.
How do I adjust center of gravity position?
Use the preset buttons, 'origin' to move the COG to the geometric center of the item, 'Hook' moves the COG location to the same XZ coordinates as the hook. You can also manually enter X, Y, and Z coordinates for precise positioning.
What file formats can I export for reports?
SlingCalc generates professional PDF reports with 3D renderings, calculation summaries, and rigging diagrams. Reports include force calculations, safety factors, and equipment specifications ready for engineering review and project documentation.
Is SlingCalc suitable for critical infrastructure lifts?
SlingCalc is designed as an engineering guidance tool for planning and analysis. For critical infrastructure, use our calculations as input to your formal engineering review process. Always consult with qualified lifting engineers for final approval on critical lifts.
How do I calculate the horizontal and vertical components of a sling force?
To calculate the horizontal and vertical components of a sling force, you can use basic trigonometry. SlingCalc does this automatically per-sling for unsymmetrical lifts and you can find it in the PDF report.
What safety factors does SlingCalc use?
The magnitude of the safety factors are left up to the user input. SlingCalc does not impose any safety factors on the user. Instead, it provides the calculated sling forces and load distributions based on the provided inputs. It is the responsibility of the user to apply appropriate safety factors as per relevant standards and regulations.
What does COG stand for in terms of lifting?
COG stands for Center of Gravity. It is the point at which the entire weight of an object can be considered to act. In lifting operations, knowing the COG is crucial for ensuring that the load is balanced and stable during the lift.
How do I turn certain aspects of the user interface on and off?
Use the 'View Controls' section in the control panel to toggle visibility of various UI elements. You can show or hide force arrows, sling lines, stability regions, and other visual aids to customize your workspace.
Does Slingcalc have a light and dark mode?
Yes! SlingCalc supports both light and dark modes. Use the theme toggle in the top navigation to switch between modes. Your preference will be saved for future visits.
Does Slingcalc provide refunds?
Yes! We provide a full refund within 14 days of purchase if you are not satisfied with the product for any reason. Just contact our support team and we will process your refund promptly.
How can I simulate lifts with different numbers of slings?
You can easily add or remove slings in slingcalc using the sling management section in the control panel. Adjust the number of slings to see how it affects load distribution and sling forces in real-time.
Need lifting calculations fast?
SlingCalc provides instant load distribution analysis and sling tensions for an infinite number of lifting arrangements. Perfect for engineers who need reliable lifting analysis without complex CAD workflows.
Calculation time
Under 60 seconds
Configurations
Unlimited sling arrangements
Featured resources
New to lifting analysis?
Start with our quick tutorial and sample calculations to master SlingCalc's 3D visualization tools.