The lifting beam is the below-the-hook device that spreads the weight of the load over several attachment points: essential for pieces that are long, flexible or awkwardly balanced. Choosing it well means protecting the load, the slings and above all whoever is working underneath.
The single-beam lifting beam: the all-rounder
A beam with a central hook and two (or more) pick-up points at the ends: it is the commonest configuration for beams, formwork, machinery and bundles. In the adjustable versions the pick-up points slide along the beam to suit loads of different lengths.
H-frame and cross beams: for flat loads
When the load is wide as well as long — slabs, panels, tanks, dies — you need four or more pick-up points arranged in plan. The H-frame and the cross (X) lifting beam spread the weight over the four corners, keeping the load level and stable.
Capacity and centre of gravity
Capacity is sized on the maximum load plus the weight of chains and gripping attachments. The critical point is the centre of gravity: if it does not coincide with the centre of the lifting beam, the load tilts. For pieces with an offset centre of gravity there are lifting beams with an adjustable hook, or ones designed to measure from the drawing of the piece.
Attollo builds lifting beams from 500 kg up to 200 tonnes, all overload-tested in the Milan workshop.
The rules: EN 13155 and the Machinery Directive
Lifting beams count as lifting equipment under EN 13155 and Directive 2006/42/EC: CE marking, a plate showing capacity and tare, a declaration of conformity and a manual are compulsory, and are asked for at every inspection.
A certified lifting beam bought today will stay with the overhead crane for decades: it is one of the safety investments with the best cost-to-life ratio in the whole shop.