When using a lifting hoist such as an electric chain hoist or electric wire rope hoist, it can be suspended on a beam by attaching it to a beam trolley. There are various types of beam trolleys on the market, each with different uses and purposes, and each will also be compatible with different types of hoists and cranes. When looking for beam trolleys, the options are easier to narrow down once you know the type you will need and the functionality you will require as part of it. Learn about the different types of beam trolley and which one might be right in this brief guide.
Different types of beam trolleys: what are they and which one is right for you?
These are some of the different kinds of beam trolleys available, some of the most commonly used accessories and fixtures, and the ways in which they can be used:
- Push beam trolleys. The beam is pushed onto the flange, and it is attached in such a way that it can travel along the full length. This is a simple and efficient way of enabling travel.
- Geared beam trolleys. These use wheels, which have chains and gears. The trolley will move when the chain is pulled on either side.
There are also beam clamps, which have a set of jaws that can be opened and closed easily using a threaded handle. These jaws can be fitted around a beam flange, and the clamp can be used as a stationary attachment for suspending devices. This is similar to a beam trolley, but the difference is that it does not allow for travel: it is a lifting and lowering mechanism instead.
Whatever type of beam clamp you are using, it will need to be suitable for its purpose and used in the way intended. If these guidelines are not followed, you can risk damage to equipment and loads, or in the worst case scenario, harm to people. It is essential that beam clamps, trolleys and hoists, as with any items of lifting equipment, are used responsibly and appropriately.
These are some general pointers for buying the right beam trolley, making sure it has been specified correctly, and then installing it properly as well:
- The correct size needs to be purchased – to do this, measure the width of the runway beam
- Spacer washers need to be used to assemble the suspension plate
- The other hanger pins will need to be assembled so contact is not allowed
- The trolley can then be loosely assembled so side plates settled on beam flanges
- Nuts can be tightened and safety pins inserted
Make sure any beam trolleys you purchase and install will take the correct weight and can be used as is needed in the lifting and transportation of loads with lifting slings. If you need to opt for a professional installation instead this is a good investment, ensuring that the beam trolley will be property installed and fully usable.