Though once considered a useless byproduct, iron furnace slag is now recognized together of the world’s most useful aggregates and is employed during a wide selection of applications, from road bases and glass insulation wool to athletic fields.

Effectively managing slag, however, requires reliable, high-performing machines specially engineered for this specific sort of bulk material handling.
At Liftlink Technologies, we provide an entire catalog of crane, hoist, and lift solutions to satisfy all kinds of slag handling needs.

Defining Slag

Produced as a byproduct during a range of industries, slag is usually classified supported its iron content: Ferrous slags (containing iron/steel) structure the bulk of economic production, while nonferrous slags (containing lead, zinc, copper) account for about 12%.

When used as ballast, slag offers unique angularity to enhance binding action, creating a surface with superior stability and resistance to shifting. And with high durability and straightforward handling, the use of slag allows for low maintenance and speedy work from start to end.

Common Industries and Applications Making Use of Slag

As aggregate technology and building materials become more complex, slag is playing an increasingly important role in projects starting from glass manufacturing to bridge construction.

Now a typical material choice, slag is even beginning to be considered a preferred or specialized material in some applications.

Slag Handling Cranes

Cranes and hoists utilized in slag handling must be ready to withstand harsh environments and highly abrasive loads; this material handling equipment is liable for slag handling and management throughout all manufacturing processes — including slag distribution along main conveyor lines because the material is sorted through the slag bunker and loaded onto trucks.

For slag still containing ferrous rejects, cranes are often specially outfitted below the hook. Custom components include claws with special teeth, also as fully closed orange peel-type grabs to assist achieve better penetration and solid handling.

Many fully automated cranes and remote operating systems also are well-suited for slag handling applications.