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Spreader beams for different loads
Spreader beams are below-the-hook lifting devices that allow loads to be picked up and lifted at multiple points. They are used particularly when the geometry or center of gravity of a load requires a specific arrangement of lifting accessories.
Different designs are available depending on the application. These include adjustable spreader beams, frame spreader beams, tubular spreader beams and equalizing spreader beams. The appropriate design depends on factors such as the weight and dimensions of the load, the position of its center of gravity, and the location and design of the lifting points.
For long loads, spreader beams can connect the lifting points in such a way that the lifting accessories are subjected to smaller angular loads. This can reduce the required lifting height. Depending on the design, the load can be lifted using lifting accessories that are largely vertical.
When selecting and designing a spreader beam, the conditions at the place of use must also be taken into account, in addition to the load itself. These include the available lifting height, the crane's load capacity, the available lifting points and the intended type of load movement.
Center of gravity and lifting points
The position of the load's center of gravity is a key factor in the design of a spreader beam. Together with the position of the lifting points, it determines how the load aligns when lifted.
For a freely suspended load with a single suspension point, the line of action of the gravitational force passes through the suspension point. The load's center of gravity is vertically below the crane hook.
For a spreader beam with a central suspension point, the center of gravity of the intended load must be taken into account accordingly. If the center of gravity is off-center, the spreader beam may tilt when lifted. Depending on the design, an off-center suspension point or adjustable lifting points may be required in such cases.
The height and arrangement of the lifting points on the load also affect its behavior during lifting. The relationship between the center of gravity, the lifting points and the geometry of the spreader beam is decisive. The stability of the entire system must be considered, particularly for loads with a high center of gravity.
Lifting points should therefore be considered as early as the design stage of a machine or system. Their position can have a significant influence on the subsequent selection and design of the spreader beam.
Design based on operating conditions
In addition to load capacity, the intended use of the spreader beam is relevant to its design. This includes, in particular, the number of load cycles and the expected service life.
The applicable standard for spreader beams is EN 13155. The current German edition is DIN EN 13155:2026-09. For load-bearing mechanical components, the standard addresses verification for up to 16,000 load cycles. For designs involving a higher number of load cycles, additional calculation methods must be considered, taking EN 13001-1 into account.
The daily frequency of use alone is not a sufficient criterion. What matters is the total number of load cycles planned over the service life and the loads to which the spreader beam will be subjected during operation.
The design also takes into account the dynamic effects arising from the intended operation. These include the load spectrum and crane movements.
For spreader beams intended for horizontal operation, a deviation of up to six degrees from the horizontal must also be taken into account in the design.
The technical design must therefore consider several factors together: the spreader beam's load capacity, the position of the load's center of gravity, the location of the lifting points, the load geometry, crane conditions and the intended use.
Spreader beams for individual requirements
Standardized loads with known dimensions and a defined center of gravity can often be handled using appropriately designed standard spreader beams. However, individual solutions are required for large loads, varying load configurations or complex center-of-gravity positions.
At PFEIFER, spreader beams are designed to suit the specific load and intended operating conditions. Factors taken into account include load weight, dimensions, center of gravity, lifting points, lifting height and crane parameters.
The range extends from simple spreader beams to designs for loads weighing several hundred tonnes. For particularly long, wide or tall loads, the geometric conditions and the handling requirements during attachment and transportation must also be considered.
The technical design of a spreader beam therefore begins with more than just determining the required load capacity. The entire system comprising the load, lifting accessories, spreader beam and crane must be considered. Only when these components are properly coordinated can the load be moved safely and under control.