Spreader Vs Lifting Beams – What’s the Difference?

If you need to complete a job that involves lifting or moving large and heavy objects or large fragile loads, investing in a spreader/lifting beam can make a huge difference to the efficiency of the operation. Both types of beam distribute the weight of the load to make it more stable but do so in slightly different ways. 

Spreader Beams

Spreader beams have lugs at either end which attach to the crane’s sling and two lugs on their underside that attach to the load. The way their lugs are orientated means the load taken by the spreader beam is mainly compressive, so they can carry a great deal of weight compared to their size.

At SafetyLiftinGear we stock a huge range of modular spreader beams that can support weights from 2 tonnes up to 70 tonnes and are adjustable in length, making them an incredibly versatile piece of equipment that can be used for a variety of different jobs.

Click here to shop Spreader Beams >

Lifting Beams

Lifting beams are different to spreader beams because they attach to the crane from a single central point and can have several load attachment points along their base or adjustable points as shown above.

Lifting beams are more appropriate for lifting large unstable objects and can be used where low headroom is an issue.  The beam is subjected to bending forces from the load and so may be large when lifting heavier loads.

Another way that these versatile lifting beams can be used, is in reverse. This entails using the underside attachments to connect a single heavy object to two cranes. This can be very useful if you need to lift an object that could not be moved using a single crane.

We supply lifting beams that are capable of lifting weights from 500 – 2000kg. They’re made of high-quality aluminium meaning they are lighter and stronger than other lifting beams. Another versatile choice. Larger units can be supplied to special order.

Click here to shop Lifting Beams >

If you have any questions regarding our spreader or lifting beams, don’t hesitate to contact us – a member of our customer service team will be happy to help.

Contact Us Here >