ISO 16877:2015

Overview

ISO 16877:2015 defines requirements for fine-tolerance hoist chains (Grade TH) used as load chains in hand operated chain hoists. It covers round steel short link chains that are electrically welded, heat treated and tested, and it applies to nominal diameters from 3 mm to 13 mm. Chains made to this standard are intended for service temperatures from −10 °C to 200 °C and must comply with the general conditions of acceptance in ISO 1834.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope and designation
  • Chains are designated Grade TH (T = grade per ISO 1834, H = hand-operated hoists).
• Materials and manufacture
  • Specifications for steel quality, deoxidation, weldability, heat treatment and finished condition.
  • Resistance butt and flash welding methods are referenced (see ISO 4063).
• Dimensions and tolerances
  • Nominal sizes (3–13 mm), pitch (nominal p ≈ 3·d, up to 3.3·d), internal/external widths, standard gauge length and weld geometry.
  • Weld-diameter limits: Type 1 welds not to exceed 8% above nominal size; Type 2 limits set differently in-plane vs. perpendicular (8% / 25%), and weld cross-section must not be less than adjacent material.
• Mechanical properties and safety verification
  • Manufacturing proof force (MPF), breaking force (BF), total ultimate elongation, bend deflection, surface hardness and toughness requirements.
  • Test and inspection regimes: lot sampling, proof and break tests, bend tests, hardness and toughness tests (referenced test methods such as ISO 148-1, ISO 6507-1, ISO 7500-1, ISO 14556).
• Marking, certification and user information
  • Grade and manufacturer marking, manufacturer’s certificate, and guidance for assembly, inspection and use in hoists.

Practical applications and intended users

ISO 16877:2015 is used by:

• Chain manufacturers producing fine-tolerance load chains for manual hoists.
• Hoist and lifting equipment manufacturers specifying load chain performance and fit.
• Procurement and quality assurance teams requiring certified chains complying with international lifting standards.
• Riggers, maintenance and safety inspectors who perform inspections, replacement or maintenance of hoist chains.
• Engineers and designers integrating hand-operated chain hoists into lifting systems where precise fit and controlled tolerances are required.

Related standards

• ISO 1834 - Short link chain for lifting purposes - General conditions of acceptance
• ISO 4063 - Welding and allied processes (reference for welding types)
• ISO 148-1, ISO 14556 - Charpy impact/toughness testing
• ISO 6507-1 - Vickers hardness testing
• ISO 7500-1 - Verification of testing machines

Keywords: ISO 16877, hoist chains, fine tolerance hoist chains, Grade TH, hand operated chain hoists, short link chains, load chains, welded chains, heat treated chains, chain testing, ISO 1834.