G80 vs. G100 Lifting Chains: Which Grade Delivers Better Value for Modern Lifting Applications?
Jul 10,2026
After three decades in the machinery and rigging industry, should you choose G80 or G100? It's really easy to just look at the initial quote and go with the cheaper option.
Yes, Grade 80 is the classic workhorse. It’s cost-effective and perfectly fine for general overhead lifting. But G100 isn't just a more expensive alternative—it's a problem solver.
The main thing to look at is the Working Load Limit. G100 gives you about 25% more capacity at the exact same chain diameter.
Common material for G80 chains is 25MnV (High cost-performance ratio) and 20Mn2A (Economical type), while G100 usually uses 23MnNiMoCr54
Think about the guys actually handling the gear on the shop floor or the site. Wrestling with massive chain slings all shift is exhausting. Downsizing with G100 cuts the physical weight drastically. Less fatigue, fewer injuries, and a much faster workflow.
Also, the alloy itself is harder. If your application involves high friction or dragging, G100 is going to resist gouging and simply outlast G80 by a mile.
Stick with G80 for your standard, day-to-day lifts. It does the job perfectly well. But the moment you start running continuous heavy lifts, or if you want to stop wearing out your shop floor workers with massive chain slings, the upgrade to G100 pays for itself fast. (Just make sure whatever you buy strictly meets ASTM or EN standards).
Curious what others are seeing in the market right now. Does your clients strictly sticking to G80 to save upfront costs, or are more projects demanding G100?
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West of Huanbao 2nd Rd, Longshan Industrial Park, Jimo District, Qingdao, Shandong Province, China
