If you’re curious about the difference between a lift beam and a spreader beam, you’ve come to the right place! Both are essential below-the-hook devices used in lifting and rigging operations, and their similar appearances and names often lead to confusion. The main difference between a lift beam and a spreader beam is the type of load they experience during use.
At Tandemloc, we supply a vast range of reliable lift beams and spreader beams to ensure you have the right equipment for the job. In this article, we’ll explain the core differences between the two and outline the ideal scenarios for using each one.
What is a Lift Beam?
A lift beam is a below-the-hook lifting device that features one or more attachment points on the top for connecting to a crane. It’s designed to transform lifting loads into a bending force applied to the beam. Lift beams usually have multiple uniformly spaced padeyes on the bottom that interface with rigging hardware.
Benefits of Using a Lift Beam for Lifting:
⦁ Ideal for spaces with limited headroom
⦁ Provides stability for lifting loads
⦁ Suitable for numerous load types
⦁ Can connect to your load at multiple points along the length of the beam.
⦁ Doesn’t require a top sling
⦁ Ideal for large heavy or complex loads.
Tandemloc offers an extensive range of lift beams, including custom-engineered solutions that include our Rapid Ready lift beams for unique or complex lifting applications. Our options include fixed and adjustable beams, roll lifters, combo spreader beams, 2 crane lift beam, and lift beams with hooks. We supply products that can lift up to 300,000 pounds and extend up to 40 feet in length. Browse our options and find your next lift beam here.
What is a Spreader Beam?
A spreader beam is another type of below-the-hook lifting device that incorporates a two-leg bridle sling. This device transforms lifting loads into a compressive force on the beam and a tensile force on the slings. Spreader beams are particularly suited for lifting balanced loads where cost and weight are primary concerns.
Benefits of Using a Spreader Beam for Lifting:
⦁ Even load distribution across two points
⦁ Lighter than lift beams with comparable capacities
⦁ Can be made in a collapsible form for storage and easy adjustment.
Our product line at Tandemloc includes a wide array of spreader beams to match your unique requirements. The standard spreaders we offer are fixed spreader beams and adjustable spreader beams, each that can handle up to 100,000 pounds. We also provide end cap spreader beam assemblies for those that want more versatility with their spreader beams. The end cap working load limits range from 14 tons per pair to 1,104 tons per pair. Yes, you read that right, over 2 million pound capacity! Lastly, Tandemloc has an extensive custom program that can provide uniquely designed spreader beams that extend far outside our standard spreader beam.
Key Differences: Lift Beam vs. Spreader Beam:
While lift beams and spreader beams are both key devices used for lifting applications, the biggest distinction between the two lies in the nature of force being applied to the beam. With a lift beam, a bending force is applied. Lift beams are typically built with a heavier cross section that can handle bending loads along all or part of its full span. Many lift beams are designed to carry loads at the ends, middle, and anywhere along the length of their span. Since a top sling is not typically required for lift beams, they are particularly suited for scenarios where overhead space is limited. In contrast, the cross section of a typical spreader beam is subjected to only compressive force during operation. Spreader beams tend to weigh less and cost less than lift beams with the same capacity and span, but they can usually only carry loads at the ends of the beam. Since the top and bottom padeyes on a spreader beam are aligned with each other at the ends, a properly designed top sling will always be required to adapt the spreader beam to the crane hook.
Overview of Key Differences:
Lift Beam
⦁ Bending force applied
⦁ Heavier Construction
⦁ Ideal for limited headroom
⦁ Concentrated load at beam center
Spreader Beam
⦁ Compressive force applied
⦁ Lighter in design
⦁ Ideal for standard wide and heavy loads
⦁ Load spread across two points
Understanding the core differences between these two central below-the-hook devices is important for selecting the right product for best results. Whether you’re looking for extreme stability, adjustability, or customization options, Tandemloc has got it all. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about our lifting products!
Choosing the Right Beam
When choosing the right lifting device for your specific application, it’s important to consider multiple factors. Ask yourself some of these questions in order to decipher between a lift beam and a spreader beam for lifting:
⦁ What is the nature of the load being lifted?
⦁ How much does it weigh? What is its shape?
⦁ How rigid is the object being lifted?
⦁ What is the available overhead space?
⦁ What environment will the load be lifted in?
⦁ How important is load stability?
Both lift beams and spreader beams provide excellent stability for lifting operations. Lift beams are typically a better option for spaces with limited overhead room, and can be used for a wide range of lifting and load types. Spreader beams are usually best suited for standard heavy loads By considering factors such as the load type and size, the space the lifting will take place, and the importance of stability, you can pick the right lifting device for your unique needs.
Tandemloc is here to offer reliable, tailored solutions that can be ready in as little as 5-7 days with our Rapid Ready program. We supply a comprehensive line of lift beams and spreader beams, offering personalized and adjustable options for precise results and performance. Get in touch with us and we’ll get you started with some of the best equipment on the market!
