KITO
Master Links
Master links serve as the single, load‑rated top connector that gathers the legs of a multi‑leg sling assembly—chain, wire rope, or synthetic—and interfaces with the crane hook, hoist, or lifting point. Designed to accommodate multiple sling legs without inducing side‑loading or bending stresses on the crane hook, a correctly specified master link distributes load evenly across all legs and maintains assembly geometry throughout the lift. The Crosby and Gunnebo Industries range includes forged alloy steel master links, welded oversized links for large crane hooks, DNV 2.7‑1 type‑approved offshore assemblies, and pear‑shaped wide‑body links engineered for synthetic sling compatibility. Available in Grade 80, Grade 100, and stainless steel, with Working Load Limits from under 1 tonne to over 160 tonnes, each is proof‑tested, certified, and marked for full traceability.
Send an Enquiry
We'll get back to you on WhatsApp.
Trusted by Industry Leaders
Single‑Point Load Gathering
One master link replaces multiple shackles and connecting links at the crane hook interface, reducing assembly weight, minimising rigging height (headroom), and eliminating the cascade of potential failure points.
Forged Alloy Integrity with Full Traceability
Forged from quenched and tempered fine‑grain alloy steel, each master link is individually proof‑tested to 2.5× WLL and permanently marked with its Working Load Limit, material heat code, and manufacturer identification.
Special Proof‑Test Fixturing
Crosby master links are proof‑tested using purpose‑built fixtures that contact a maximum of 60% of the inside width, preventing the localised point loading that can initiate fatigue cracks in commodity links.
Wide‑Body / Engineered Flat Profiles
Oversized and pear‑shaped link geometries provide a broader bearing surface for crane hooks, prevent hook point‑loading, and maintain correct assembly alignment under multi‑directional loading.
DNV 2.7‑1 Type‑Approved Offshore Configurations
Master link assemblies with full DNV certification are the mandated standard for offshore container lifting, subsea deployment frames, and marine personnel transfer baskets.
Grade 100 Performance in a Compact Envelope
Grade 100 master links deliver up to 25% more Working Load Limit than Grade 80 equivalents for an identical link diameter, enabling higher‑capacity assemblies without increasing hook size or headroom penalty.
Why Master Link Specification Is Critical for Multi‑Leg Sling Safety
When a two‑leg sling lifts a load at a 60° included angle, each leg carries approximately 57.7% of the load—not 50%—and that tension is concentrated through the master link. An undersized or incorrectly specified master link becomes the weakest component in the assembly. The crane hook must sit squarely within the master link eye; a hook that is too large creates point‑loaded bending, while a hook that is too narrow prevents full seating. For rigging supervisors writing lift plans, specifying the master link by part number and WLL provides a documented, defensible component selection that stands up to LOLER thorough examination and third‑party audit.
Master Link Selection by Application
Single‑leg slings use a standard round or oval master link to connect directly to the crane hook. Two‑leg assemblies benefit from the Gunnebo Grab Duo MGD integrated top link, eliminating the need for a separate intermediate connector. Three‑ and four‑leg chain slings require an engineered master link with sufficient internal width to accommodate all legs without crowding. Synthetic round slings should be paired with wide‑body or pear‑shaped master links that provide the minimum stock diameter and effective contact width prescribed by WSTDA‑RS1. Offshore and marine applications mandate DNV‑certified assemblies.