How To Use Beam Clamps

A beam clamp is a piece of kit that is suitable for fitting on the projection of a "H" or "I" steel beam / girder. A beam clamp when attached in the approved manner allows a lifting device like an electric hoist or chain block, to be effortlessly attached and so giving a secure, semi-permanent lifting point.
Beam clamps can be found in a variety of capacities and styles, they might be adjustable or of a fixed size, can have scissor action, screw locking or bolt clamp fixings.
A good quality beam clamp offers a lot of benefits, including; Robust complete steel construction, they are easy to install, the inbuilt suspension bar presents low headroom, making them perfect where headroom is at a premium. Beam clamps are compact and light-weight, additionally they provide a safe and secure grip due to the central threaded spindle; and super quick adjustment to any girder width within its range.
There are beam clamps available which suit varying dimensions of beams, and many come supplied with a shackle attached, providing an even more versatile rigging point allowing for the effortless attachment of hoisting equipment for instance electric hoists, and chain blocks. Most beam clamps have a locking device for additional safety, and there are various types obtainable which include extra reinforced side plates and jaws for use in demanding environment. Beam clamps can be found in varying capacities, and the safe working load should on no account be exceeded.
Here are some tips on the safe usage, maintenance / inspections and storage of your beam clamps. I n accordance with the requirements of Section 6 of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974.
SAFE USE;
When positioning a beam clamp, it must always be directly above the loads centre of gravity, failure to do so can cause the load to swing causing increased stress, which could result in the failure of the clamp.
Always check that the beam clamp is of the correct profile and size, or correctly adjusted for the beam width, so that it fits correctly on the beam flange.
Always check the supporting structure is adequate for the full load, And ensure that the beam clamp is strong enough for its intended use.
Never use beam clamps which cannot be identified, or are uncertified for lifting applications.
Never replace bolts, shackles etc, without consulting the supplier.
Never throw or drop the beam clamp.
Never use beam clamps on damaged or distorted beams.
Never force or wedge hooks of lifting appliances into the attachment eye or fitting.
Never obliquely/diagonally load beam clamps without the authority of the supplier.
Never exceed the safe working load.
If two beam clamps are to be used in tandem then the use of ancillary equipment may be necessary, for example a spreader beam, and care must be taken to ensure that no one clamp exceeds its safe working load.
INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE;
Beam clamps should be cleaned regularly and kept free from dirt and debris
Moving parts should be lubricated at appropriate intervals,
Beam clamps should be regularly inspected for wear, damage, distortion, cracks, insecure bolts, corrosion or illegible markings, if seen or suspected, never use until it has been checked and/or repaired by a competent person.
STORAGE;
Never return damaged beam clamps to storage.
Beam clamps should be stored carefully when not in use, they should never be dropped or thrown down.
Beam clamps should be clean, dry and protected from corrosion prior to storage.
Where necessary, fasteners should be reassembled immediately after removal from the beam.
I hope you have found this article has been informative, thankyou for reading.

Article Source: http://www.newsarticlessite.com

Lifting Equipment Ltd has provided many types of lifting equipment, beam clamps, for many years to trade and industry, for more information please visit our web sites for more lifting gear products or liftingequipment our team are always ready to help.

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