There’s an element of mathematics in the use of lifting beams in construction. Correctly used, they are a simple way to stabilise and support the lifting of a heavy load. But for those involved in a construction project understanding which beam is the best for you can be confusing.
To be clear, we’re not talking about beams as a construction material here: we’re specifically talking about lifting beams which LGH supply as part of our rigging gear .
Lifting beams in construction could refer to ‘spreader beams’ or just ‘lifting beams’ – there is a subtle difference:
Lifting beams: A lifting beams design consists of a beam with a single attachment point centered on the top side of the beam. The load will put a bending stress on the beam.
Spreader beams: A spreader beams design is a long bar that holds two slings apart. It’s designed to convert lifting loads into pure compressive forces and also spread apart the legs of a sling.
The spreader beams design achieves an even distribution of the weight of the load across the two slings . The slings are connected to a lifting machine of some sort, whether that is a crane or other type of lifting gear. Two lugs on the bottom connect to the sling or hook, which in turn connect to the load being lifted. This type of beam is typically smaller, lighter and less expensive than a lifting beam. They reduce the chance of a load tipping, sliding or bending and can be angled to best support a load.
Here at LGH we specialise in spreader beams. The advantage of these beams is that they convert lifting loads to pure compressive forces. Put simply, this is a way to efficiently spread the weight of the load. This type of beam is typically smaller, lighter and less expensive than a lifting beam. They reduce the chance of a load tipping, sliding or bending and can be angled to best support a load.
When considering which lifting beam would be best for a project, it is important to consider the following questions:
- What is the load?
- How is it being lifted?
- What is the weight and span?
- Where is it being lifted?
Here at LGH we have a wide selection of Modulift Spreader beams , Lattice Spreader beams and Spreader frames . Each have their own advantage depending on the size of the job.
If you need more advice about which lifting beam would be best for your project, please contact our team for expert advice.
