Spreader Beam

Description

A spreader beam/ spreader bar is a simple device consisting of a long bar that holds two slings apart. A spreader beam is designed to convert lifting loads into pure compressive forces in the beam and tensile forces in the legs of the slings.

Two lifting points on the top of the beam attach to the legs of a chain, steel wire rope or synthetic sling at a particular angle designed to ensure pure compression. The beam distributes the weight of the load across the two slings. Two lugs on the bottom of the beam (one at each end) connect to a sling or hook which are then connected to the load.

Due to the compressive nature of compressive forces in operation, spreader beams are highly efficient in their use of material. They are therefore typically smaller, lighter, and less expensive to design and manufacture than a lifting beam.

As spreader beams use two lifting points instead of one singular lifting point. This allows the weight of the load to be distributed across 2 lifting points, thus reducing stress on lifting points.

Spreader beams can be configured for unbalanced loads and can be adjusted for off-centre loads. The centre of gravity is shifted by adjusting the length of one of the legs of the above-the-beam 2-legged sling.

By comparison, a spreader beam offers better stability than a lifting beam. A spreader beam is suited for lifting very wide or heavy-duty loads.

Spreader beams require more headroom than lifting beams due to the two-legged sling arrangement required at the top.

We are able to manufacture standard and bespoke custom sizes within 1-3 weeks.