Lifting Matters – Load Equalisation
One great thing that has happened over recent years is that the Lifting and Material Handling industry now has a number of great publications that come out periodically. Not only does this tell us what is going on around industry, but it showcases new products that come to market or maybe a new business. It also helps to let users get safety information or be aware of better practices that they may have previously been unaware.
If you are unaware of some of these magazines, you should check out the following:
Steve Smith has also started a podcast about the crane industry and the people in it called Behind the Hook. A great idea and well worth a listen.
Reading the latest edition of Lifting Matters, I came across an article about appropriate Load Attachments which I thought I would share some of the points:
- Never assume that equal length slings and symmetrical attachment points ensures even loads on the legs. On a multi-leg sling only two legs should be considered load bearing unless load equalisation devices are used
- Ramshorn hooks only provide load equalisation when oriented 90 degrees from the pivot (not as per below)
- Load triangles and snatch blocks are the best of the equalisation methods
- Remember that when using a snatch block, the loads on the legs may be even but the load will tilt as a result to compensate for any dimensional asymmetry
- Remember to check all shackle, sling assembly and spreader bar working load limits and if in doubt, seek an engineer to calculate load share and relevant loadings of each leg
As always, if you require any clarification on anything lifting, please do not hesitate to contact the team at LiftQuip Australia
