What is the result of using a sling angle of 30 degrees compared to 60 degrees in a two-legged bridle hitch?

Using a sling angle of 30 degrees compared to 60 degrees in a two-legged bridle hitch results in increased sling tension. As the angle of the sling decreases, the force exerted on the sling increases due to the mechanical advantage and the geometry of the load being lifted.

At a 30-degree angle, the legs of the sling are pulling more directly in line with the vertical load, which increases the tension in the slings compared to a 60-degree angle, where the tension is distributed more evenly and thus reduced. This is critical to consider in rigging operations because excessive tension can lead to potential failure of the sling or other rigging components, underscoring the importance of understanding and managing sling angles to ensure safe lifting practices.

In contrast, using a higher angle like 60 degrees allows for a more favorable distribution of tension, which helps in maintaining the integrity of the lifting system and reducing the overall risk of equipment failure during a lift.