An awkward job on a construction project in Adelaide recently employed the use of a new type of beam lifter, which is lighter than traditional hoists.
Four beam lifters, positioned side-by-side, collectively raised 1.7 tonne steel beams to support new concrete for a covered walkway being built between two buildings. The beam lifters were hired from specialist materials handling equipment company, Kennards Lift and Shift , by Sub-contractor Plympton Steel.
The German-designed beam lifters weigh just 86kg, compared with 137kg for traditional beam lifters. Other advantages include fewer moving parts, no cables or wire rope, and a simple worm drive.
Kennards Lift & Shift say the new beam lifters can lift beams of up to 600kg, to heights of between 1.1 metres and three metres. The beam being lifted can also be swung around to fit through doorways thanks to the rotating load holder at the end of the arm. The new beam lifters fold to a compact size of 1.57m by 730mm by 600mm for easy transportation.
Kennards Lift & Shift hires a wide range of rigging and materials handling equipment from outlets in Sydney, Wollongong, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth.