Rigging Hardware

G80 connecting link 13-8 WLL 5.3T red butterfly link

Rigging Hardware

G80 High-Strength Connecting Link (Butterfly Link / European Chain Connecting Link) — 13-8 (WLL 5.3T)

G80 WLL 5.3T

Grade 80 forged alloy steel connecting link for 13 mm chain, rated WLL 5.3 tons (5300 kg). Two interlocking halves locked by a hardened center pin and internal snap ring—compact, vibration-proof and ideal for permanent chain sling assemblies.

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1. Product Overview

This is a heavy-duty Grade 80 high-strength connecting link (commonly called a butterfly link, double-loop connecting link or European chain connecting link) in 13-8 size, rated for a working load limit (WLL) of 5.3 tons (5300 kg). Unlike screw-pin or bolt-type shackles that are frequently opened and closed, this link is a permanent high-strength fitting designed for Grade 80 chain sling assemblies. Two forged halves interlock and are secured by a hardened center pin and internal elastic snap ring. The full red industrial coating provides strong outdoor corrosion protection and high visibility on busy lifting sites.

2. Key Features & Design Highlights

  • Grade 80 forged alloy steel: Precision drop-forged from high-strength alloy steel, quenched and tempered for high tensile strength, fatigue life and low-temperature toughness. Under overload the link tends to deform plastically rather than fail brittle without warning.
  • 13-8 size, 5.3T WLL: Body markings include 13-8 for 13 mm Grade 80 chain, WLL 5.3T; CE marking can be arranged per order when required by your market. Breaking load typically reaches 4× WLL or higher.
  • Center pin dead-lock system: Two symmetrical forged halves interlock; a blackened hardened center pin with an internal snap ring locks permanently once driven home—resistant to vibration, rotation and multi-directional movement.
  • Full red high-visibility coating: High-saturation industrial red paint blocks moisture and mud while making the link easy to spot for remote safety checks on site.
  • Compact smooth profile: The assembled oval shape is narrower and smoother than bow or D shackles—less likely to snag when dragged with chain, passing through lifting lugs or sliding on crane hooks.

3. Primary Applications

  • Assembly and repair of Grade 80 chain slings—connecting 13 mm chain to master links, shortening hooks, eye hooks or container lifting fittings.
  • Mining, tunneling and heavy industrial lifting where vibration and impact demand a positive lock that will not back out.
  • Port, marine and deck securement as part of high-strength lashing chain systems under wave and wind motion.
  • Heavy recovery and towing terminals on rescue and transport equipment where omnidirectional pull must stay locked.

4. Specifications

Product TypeG80 high-strength connecting link (butterfly / European type)
GradeG80 (Grade 80) lifting alloy steel
Nominal Size13-8 (for 13 mm Grade 80 chain)
Working Load Limit (WLL)5.3 T (5.3 TON / 5300 kg)
Material & ProcessAlloy steel, drop-forged, quenched and tempered
Locking SystemInterlocking halves + blackened center pin + internal snap ring
FinishFull industrial red paint / blackened center pin
MarkingsWLL 5.3T, 13-8 (CE marking available upon request)

Safety Guidelines

  1. Not a quick-release fitting—assembly usually requires driving the center pin in with a hammer; disassembly needs a drift pin. For frequent connect/disconnect, use a screw-pin or bolt-type shackle (G-209 or G-210).
  2. Confirm the center pin is fully seated and the internal snap ring is engaged before loading—an incomplete pin can slide out under load with catastrophic results.
  3. Do not weld, heat or modify—the heat treatment must not be altered.

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