A spreader beam is a rigid lifting device, typically made of steel, that is used to lift loads safely. It is designed to distribute lifting forces to one or more lifting points while maintaining the correct load geometry. Spreader beams are available in a wide variety of configurations, each suited to different lifting applications. This article explains the key principles.
A crucial aspect of spreader beams is product liability. Because there is no single harmonised product standard covering all spreader beam designs, every custom lifting beam must be supported by a technical file. This file should include engineering calculations, technical drawings, a Declaration of Incorporation (2B Declaration) where applicable, and proof of successful proof load testing. Full traceability of the spreader beam must also be maintained throughout its service life.
Homemade Spreader Beams
Many organisations still use homemade spreader beams. In many cases, these beams are not supported by the required technical documentation.
Users should be aware that responsibility and liability for these spreader beams rests entirely with their own organisation. Simply proof load testing a homemade spreader beam is not sufficient, as this forms only one part of the required technical file. Without the complete documentation, product liability remains with the owner.
In practice, a variety of terms are used interchangeably, such as spreader beams, lifting beams, and equalising beams.
A lifting beam is commonly used when a load needs to be supported at multiple lifting points, for example when the load is unevenly distributed. Lifting beams can also be used to lift multiple loads simultaneously.
When a heavy load is lifted using multiple cranes or hoists, an equalising beam is often the preferred solution. Its purpose is to distribute the load evenly between the lifting points, while the loading principles are essentially the same as those of a lifting beam.
Do you need a spreader beam for a specific lifting application?
Or would you like advice on spreader beams in general? At Mennens, we're happy to advise you on the right solution for your specific lifting application.
Examples of Spreader Beams
One common example in practice is the handling of bulk bags (FIBCs). If you've ever ordered a cubic metre of sand for your garden, it was likely delivered in a bulk bag. Many companies use specially designed lifting beams to handle these bags safely. These beams are manufactured for a specific application, with the necessary engineering calculations and technical drawings to support both production and product liability.
Because these lifting beams are repeatedly used under the same operating conditions and manufactured to the same design, the calculations and drawings do not need to be recreated for every individual beam. In this sense, bulk bag lifting beams have become almost standard lifting equipment.
Another well-known example is container handling in the Port of Rotterdam, where highly specialised lifting beams are used to handle shipping containers. These lifting beams are considerably more complex than those used for bulk bags, illustrating the wide variety of spreader beam designs available for different lifting applications.
Lifting Beams
Lifting beams are always designed for a specific application. They form the critical link between the crane and the load by transferring the lifting forces from the load to one or more lifting points on the crane.
Examples include:
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Lifting frames
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Lifting beams
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Vehicle lifting beams
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Container lifting beams
Custom-Built Spreader Beams
If no suitable spreader beam exists for a particular lifting application, a custom design may be required. Before manufacturing can begin, the necessary engineering calculations, technical drawings, and supporting documentation must be completed.
It is essential to establish who will act as the manufacturer from the outset, as this determines product liability. Not every steel fabrication company is familiar with the specific requirements of lifting equipment. The design calculations must also account for the additional forces generated during proof load testing.
Factors such as the use of certified welders, appropriate steel grades, and controlled manufacturing procedures all contribute to the quality and safety of the finished product.
Once all requirements have been met, Mennens can issue the appropriate certificates. By doing so, we assume responsibility for the product's traceability, ensuring it can always be linked back to the manufacturer if a defect or incident occurs. Product liability is an aspect that is often underestimated.
What If the Manufacturer Is Unknown?
In the event of an incident, it is essential to be able to identify the manufacturer.
With standardised lifting equipment this is usually straightforward, as the manufacturer can often be identified by markings, materials, or colour coding. Custom-built spreader beams, however, do not always provide this traceability.
For that reason, it is important to establish in advance which party accepts product liability.
Developing a custom spreader beam requires considerable engineering effort. For example, a 3-metre lifting beam with a 2-tonne lifting capacity may cost around $1,000 to design and manufacture, even though the steel itself may only cost around $200. The difference lies in the engineering calculations, documentation, certification, and quality assurance required before the beam can safely be put into service.
Inspection, Certification and Proof Load Testing
Before a spreader beam is put into service, it must undergo proof load testing. After commissioning, visual inspections are generally sufficient during its service life.
Unlike chain slings, spreader beams do not normally require periodic proof load testing unless significant repairs or modifications have been carried out. These are the inspection principles recommended by EKH.
The Dutch TCVT guidelines differ from the EKH recommendations, as they require periodic proof load testing at least once every four years.
It is also important to remember that EKH guidelines are specific to the Netherlands. When spreader beams are used internationally, local regulations must be followed. In Germany, for example, inspection intervals are often based on the number of lifting cycles and the intensity of use rather than a fixed time interval.
Proof Load Testing a Spreader Beam
Suppose you order a 10-tonne lifting beam. Make sure it is supplied with a proof load test certificate confirming that it has been successfully tested. This certificate forms part of the required technical file.
If no proof load test has been carried out, an EKH-certified inspection company must test the lifting beam before it can be put into service.
Mennens supports customers by performing on-site proof load testing and by providing the appropriate testing facilities and infrastructure to ensure lifting equipment complies with the required standards.
Knowledge file Safe Lifting
Use lifting equipment safely and correctly. Learn how to sling loads properly and how to inspect, examine, and certify lifting equipment to ensure safe and responsible lifting operations.
