Technical Foundation
What Is a Double Loop and Jack Chain?
Double loop chain (also called coil chain) is made from a single strand of wire twisted into interlocking oval loops, producing a lightweight, flexible chain commonly sold by gauge number (#1 through #4) rather than by wire diameter directly. It is not rated for overhead lifting; its working load limit is set for straight-line pulling, towing, or securing loads where a sudden shock load is unlikely.
Jack chain is a lighter-gauge, small-link chain typically formed from round wire in a figure-eight or single-loop pattern, used almost exclusively for suspending light fixtures, ductwork, signage, and other low-load hanging applications rather than for pulling or towing. Both chain types are sold in bulk footage or pre-cut lengths, and finish (electro-galvanized, hot-dip galvanized, brass-plated, or stainless) is chosen for the corrosion environment and appearance, not load capacity.
Prefer a quick quote?
Get Double Loop and Jack Chain Pricing in Your Inbox
Skip the search — tell us the chain gauge/number, finish and working load limit and we will come back with pricing.
| Spec | What It Means | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Chain Gauge/Number | #1 (heaviest) through #4 (lightest) for coil chain | Determines wire diameter and working load limit — gauges are not interchangeable across brands without checking WLL |
| Working Load Limit (WLL) | Manufacturer-rated maximum load, per chain gauge | Coil and jack chain are NOT rated for overhead lifting — exceeding WLL in a pulling application risks sudden failure |
| Material | Low-carbon steel, brass, stainless steel (304/316) | Stainless is specified for washdown or outdoor corrosion exposure; brass for decorative or low-load indoor hanging |
| Finish | Electro-galvanized, hot-dip galvanized, brass-plated | Hot-dip galvanizing gives thicker, more durable corrosion protection than electro-galvanizing for outdoor use |
| Links per Foot | Varies by gauge — specified on spec sheet | Needed to calculate exact cut length when ordering chain by the foot for a specific span |
Shop Double Loop and Jack Chain
Browse Double Loop and Jack Chain Sub-Categories
Organised by chain type and gauge. Pick a sub-category, or describe the load and length you need and let ChatMRO match the chain.
How it works
From Half-Remembered Part Number to PO, in Three Steps.
Ask
Type an MPN, paste a spec sheet, or describe the part in plain English. ChatMRO understands engineer-speak.
Compare
Side-by-side specs, cross-references, and equivalents from multiple sources — without the clutter of endless browser tabs.
Quote & Buy
Request a quote or add to cart. Volume discounts, VAT-aware pricing, and consolidated procurement — all in one place.
Applications
Where Double Loop and Jack Chain Get Used
Double loop and jack chain are specified for hanging and light-duty pulling tasks, never for overhead lifting.
Light Fixture & Sign Suspension
Jack chain suspending pendant lights, exit signs and lightweight signage from ceiling structure at a fixed drop length.
HVAC Duct & Equipment Hanging
Coil or jack chain supporting flexible ductwork, diffusers, and light mechanical equipment from overhead trusses.
Agricultural & Trailer Use
Double loop chain used for gate latches, towing light trailers, and general farm securing tasks within its rated WLL.
Playground & Fencing
Galvanized coil chain used in swing sets, barrier chain, and temporary fencing applications.
General Industrial Securing
Non-lifting tie-down and bundling applications where a flexible, inexpensive chain is adequate for the load.
Decorative & Retail Display
Brass-plated jack chain used for hanging retail signage, planters, and decorative fixtures.
FAQ
Double Loop and Jack Chain Questions, Answered
Can double loop or jack chain be used for overhead lifting?
No. Neither double loop (coil) chain nor jack chain is rated or manufactured to lifting-chain standards such as ASTM A391 or NACM grade-rated chain. They are intended for straight-line pulling, towing, and hanging loads only. For overhead lifting, use grade 80 or grade 100 alloy lifting chain rated and tagged for that purpose.
What's the difference between double loop chain and jack chain?
Double loop (coil) chain is made from thicker wire formed into interlocking oval links and is sold by gauge number (#1 heaviest to #4 lightest), used for general-purpose pulling and securing. Jack chain uses much lighter, smaller-diameter wire in a tight figure-eight pattern and is used almost exclusively for hanging light fixtures, signage, or ductwork — it has a much lower working load limit.
How is chain gauge number related to working load limit?
Gauge number corresponds to wire diameter and link size, with #1 being the heaviest/strongest and #4 the lightest in the common double-loop numbering. Working load limit is set by the manufacturer for each gauge and must be checked on the spec sheet rather than assumed from gauge number alone, since WLL also depends on material and link geometry.
What finish should I choose for outdoor or washdown use?
Hot-dip galvanized coil chain gives a thicker, more durable zinc coating suited to sustained outdoor exposure, while electro-galvanized is a thinner coating adequate for indoor or light-weather use. For washdown, food-processing, or marine environments, 304 or 316 stainless steel chain resists corrosion better than any plated finish.
Can I buy this chain cut to a specific length?
Yes — both double loop and jack chain are commonly sold by the foot from bulk reels as well as in pre-packaged coil lengths. Confirm the links-per-foot figure for the specific gauge you're ordering so the cut length matches your required span.
Keep browsing
Related Categories
Explore More
Find Your Next Part Now.
Describe a part number, spec or what it does.