The design of lifting beams is simple. Basically, there is a beam that features a center point of attachment on top, which is where the hoist, crane, or another type of lifting machine connects. In some cases, there will be two bails for engaging two hoist or crane hooks. Two or more lifting lugs will typically be spaced on the underside for attaching to and supporting loads with a sling or hook.
Pros
Lifting beams can connect with a bail attachment. So anytime there is a concern with overhead room, they are the wisest choice. For lifts that are lighter and have a shorter span without a need for much headroom, a lifting beam is ideal. Since there is a single bail attachment on top for crane attachment, less headroom is required than with using a spreader beam.
With a lifting beam, you also get a number of lifting points on the underside. These points may be made with fixed or adjustable lifting lugs. Such adjustability allows you to use lifting beams is a wide range of applications for a variety of load types.
The adjustable design works great for controlling an inward crushing force, handling unbalanced loads, and using special load attachments. The rigid, durable design makes lifting flexible or weak loads, like thin sheet metal, a great deal easier.
Cons
Because lifting beams are heavy-duty pieces of equipment, they tend to be on the high side when it comes to cost. When a load is light but wide, a pretty significant lifting beam will still be required. Thus, lifting beams are not always the most cost-effective options under certain circumstances.
Before deciding if this type of equipment is right for your application, be sure to consider what is being lifted and where it is located. If it will be under height restraints with low headroom, lifting beams will get the job done.
