Spreader beams and lifting beams are two important devices that have solved the uncertainty regarding  lifting  hefty loads across various industries. 

While the two are the most popular below-the-hook lifting devices, they are essentially different, both structurally and functionally. 

This blog helps readers understand the difference between a spreader beam and a lifting beam, providing a complete breakdown of both. 

Spreader beam and Lifting beam

• Spreader beam is a device that is composed of a long bar that consists of two upper lugs that are connected to the hook of a crane using two slings. 

This forms a triangular lifting shape creating a compressive force throughout the spreader beam and tensile force in the sling.  

At the bottom of the spreader beam, there are two lifting lugs at both the ends, which are connected to the load using slings or hooks. 

This setup helps to distribute the weight across the beam and enables the safe lifting of loads.

• Lifting beams, on the other hand, have a different structure. A lifting beam consists of a beam with a single attachment point at the top center, which is attached directly to the crane or hoist. 

It consists of multiple evenly-spaced lifting lugs on the bottom side of the beam that is attached to the load using a sling. 

The bending force stands out here. As the crane pulls up in the center, the load pulls down on both sides, creating a bending force on the beam. 

The beam is built strong enough to handle this bending and protect the load at the same time. 

What is the key difference?

Now that a clear understanding of what lifting beam and spreader beam are, let us proceed to the next part, which is noting the key difference. 

• Spreader beams are ideal for lifting heavy-duty loads. The presence of two lifting lugs, instead of one on the top, center portion, prevents the stress on a single lifting point and evenly distributes the weight across the beam. 

• While the lifting beams have a single centered lifting point, they have one or more bottom lifting lugs, which is ideal for lifting out-of-balanced loads and loads that are comparatively weak and flexible.
  
• Spreader beams require more headroom owing to their angled slings and chains.
•  Lifting beams on the other hand can work in spaces with limited headroom. The bail attachment maintains a low-profile connection, making it a  perfect choice for tight vertical spaces.
• Spreader beams are less expensive per foot and per ton of capacity.
• Lifting beams on the other hand are more expensive per foot and per ton of capacity, owing to its increased material and design requirement.
•  Spreader beam provides excellent load stability and balance while lifting.
• Lifting beams provide moderate stability compared to the spreader beams. Its manufacturing plays a major role in this.

• Spreader beams require more complex rigging, using slings and shackles.
• Lifting beams require relatively simple rigging.
• Spreader beams prevent the tipping, sliding or bending of loads, thereby protecting it from damage.

• Lifting beams can handle uneven loads. It absorbs the inward forces through bending, which prevents the loads from crushing. 

The use of a spreader and lifting beams makes load suspension and lifting easier. Understanding the equipment, its lifting mechanism and the suitable spaces where it can function efficiently is integral in ensuring a safe working environment.

For any rental requirements for a lifting beam or spreader beam please contact us.