A spreader bar works by distributing a load across more than one point, increasing the stability and decreasing the load applied during hoisting. They typically have two lifting points going up to transmit the load to the crane and two going down to attach the object required to be lifted.
In this post, we have shed light on how does spreader bars work, safety instructions, best operating practices, and all other key aspects that you must remember if you are deciding to avail spreader bar rentals.
Spreader bars have simpleĀ anatomyĀ and serve as a crucial piece of equipment in the lifting industry. They comprise a long bar holding wire rope slings apart to the lifting distance. Spreader bar for lifting converts the lifting loads into compressive forces in the bar and tensile forces in the slings. This makes lifting and moving heavy loads easier.
The best thing about spreader bars is that they allow a single crane to lift loads from multiple locations. With these bars, itās also easy to spread the load and provide balance to the lift.
You can also adjust the length of the spreader bars by altering the length of the shackles to accommodate a range of lift spreads. Since the loads are placed axially, spreader bars are either square or round tubes. Now that you know what is a spreader bar, letās understand why you need them.
A spreader bar allows the user to attach the load at two points. This evenly spreads the load throughout the bar and wire rope slings and make it easier to lift. Moreover, the attachment points are positioned so that the bars seamlessly allow vertical hoists.
This make it possible to lift loads that are likely to get damaged from angled slings. Spreader bars are highly durable and can handle the loading points without bending or breaking.
Due to their efficacy and ability to lift loads, spreader bars are primarily used to lift objects that are too large to balance from a single point. This is particularly true if they are not designed to handle adverse loading conditions because of the tension force caused due to slanting when they are being lifted. These types of loads primarily include concrete pipes, portable toilets, skip bins, dongas, and removable housing blocks.
Thanks to the nature of spreader bars, the load doesnāt cause any stress or bending on the bars and shackles while the load is being lift. The lifting points are inclined at specific angles so that the load is entirely compressed through the bar, making it behave just like a column. This allows spreader bars to lift heavy loads without causing any damage to man or machinery.
Spreader bars are fabricated devices that serve specific requirements. So, itās advisable not to use them for a purpose they are not designed for. Here are few things you should keep in mind before availing spreader bar rentals. You should never:
Donāts
After the donāts, letās discuss the dos of ensuring the safety and effectiveness of spreader bars.
Dos
Remember that spreader bars should beĀ examinedĀ every six months by a professional, even if you have taken spreader bar rental. Avoid using the device if you notice any distortion, damage, corrosion, wear, loose or missing bolts, cracked wields, worn-out attachment points, or any other type of fault.
When using a spreader bar, you must know how to use a spreader bar and ensure to comply with the safety instructions. Hereās what you should remember:
Itās essential to maintain workplace safety, especially when heavy industrial machines are being used. Here are three of the most common mistakes that should be avoided at all costs for ensuring the well-being of site workers.
Spreader bars are manufactured to withstand heavy loads.Ā They are designed to be durable and not bend or break due to large tension force. They are now extensively used in the lifting industry to lift and move heavy loads from one location to another.
Knowing how to use these bars and understanding the need for maintenance and inspections, safety instructions, and mistakes to avoid will definitely help you get the best out of them.Ā You can avail spreader bar rental, rigging rental, and shackle rental at competitive rates from trusted organizations like HHI Lifting so that you donāt come across any issues pertaining to lifting loads at your construction site or workspace.