My Cart: 0 item(s)
Spreader Bars: The Workhorses of Safe and Efficient Lifting
In the world of lifting, spreader bars, also known as spreader beams or lifting beams, are the unsung heroes that enhance safety and efficiency. These versatile tools extend your lifting capabilities, allowing you to securely handle a wider range of loads.
Understanding Spreader Bars
Imagine a robust horizontal bar – that's the essence of a spreader bar. This bar is typically made from steel beam sections, but can also be fabricated from hollow structural shapes or even pipes (see Figure E). By incorporating spreader bars into your lifting operation, you gain several key advantages:
- Expanded Lifting Options: Spreader bars enable you to create multiple pick points for lifting, significantly increasing versatility.
- Enhanced Safety: Distributing the lifting stress between two or more hoisting points enhances safety by reducing the load placed on each individual sling.
- Straighter Lifts: Spreader bars often allow for direct upward hoists, minimizing the need for angled pulls that can introduce instability.
Spreader Bar Applications: Examples for Enhanced Lifting
Let's explore some common spreader bar applications:
Basic Arrangement (Figure A): This is the most common setup, providing two attachment points for the load. This doubles the lifting points compared to a single pick point, promoting safety and stability.
Opposite Configuration (Figure B): Less frequently used, this configuration positions the spreader bar attachment points on the bottom. It might be suitable for lifting a long object with two cranes.
Lifting Irregular Shapes (Figure C): Spreader bars can be customized to accommodate irregularly shaped loads, ensuring a secure and balanced lift.
Multiple Pick Points (Figure D): For highly flexible loads, spreader bars can be designed to create multiple pick points, preventing the load from deforming or becoming damaged during lifting.
Spreader Bar Fabrication: Beyond Solid Steel Beams
While solid steel beam sections are a popular choice, spreader bars can also be constructed from:
- Hollow Structural Shapes: These lightweight yet robust shapes offer a balance of strength and weight efficiency.
- Pipes: In specific situations, pipes may be suitable for fabricating spreader bars.
Conclusion: Spreader Bars - A Vital Part of Your Lifting Toolbox
Spreader bars are a valuable asset for any lifting operation. By understanding their capabilities and configurations, you can leverage their versatility to ensure safe, efficient, and controlled lifts for a wide range of loads.