When Lifting Equipment Does Its Job Correctly, No One Notices

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If we asked someone who was not familiar with lifting equipment what is meant by that phrase, they would probably imagine a crane or perhaps a forklift. In fact, there is a wide variety of lifting machines and equipment that includes chain blocks, wire rope slings, webbing slings, shackles, eyebolts, beam clamps, hoists – manual, electrical or pneumatic – each of them designed specifically for certain purposes.

A textile sling perfectly suited for lifting of a smooth steel beam will prove to be totally inappropriate for transporting a load with cutting elements, which could cut through fibres. Wire rope will better cope with the abrasions, yet the use of such a rope will raise another question of the ability of the equipment to move freely along a certain radius. Chains offer great strength and high resistance to temperature or chemicals effects, yet their weight makes them inappropriate for handling loads with fragile surfaces.

Selection of equipment depends on a number of factors. Yet, selecting the most strong piece of equipment will hardly prove effective. In case, when the load is to be handled under unusual circumstances, it may turn out, that there is no need for such a powerful sling or, conversely, that the selected equipment proves unable to cope with the challenge.

Workload Limit – A Must Not to be Exceeded

Each lifting machine or device is supplied with a technical specification that states a safe workload limit (Working Load Limit/Safe Working Load) for each type of handling equipment. This information is crucial when designing the equipment, as it gives the manufacturer an opportunity to estimate all the parameters, necessary for making the product.

There is one thing that makes the situation a little more complicated. The rated capacity may vary according to the configuration of the device. For instance, the carrying capacity will differ when the load is lifted straight up in comparison with the load, transported in the choker or basket configuration.

Professional riggers easily determine the load capacity by intuition. Yet, when estimating the load capacities, it is essential to understand the geometrical principles of calculating the lifting load and how the load is transferred from one point to another.

Usually, things tend to get wrong at this point when the rigger underestimates the effect that angles, multiple leg or load dynamics have on the actual load capacity of the equipment.

Effective Inspection Programmes

Almost everyone understands that lifting equipment should be inspected regularly. Yet, very few companies manage to stick to strict inspection schedule. It seems as if some of them know what they should do and what equipment they should purchase. However, they seem to be not able to implement these measures into practice.

Daily visual inspections take just several minutes and detect all obvious damage, deformations, rust. Periodic inspections, performed as prescribed by the legislation and equipment technical specifications, presuppose checking equipment for hidden damages, chains for elongation or internal damage to the lifting sling.

The companies with good safety records have a tendency to stick to rigid inspection schedule and record all inspections in logs. They never use their equipment without tagging and logging. Moreover, whenever a certain piece of equipment passes unsuccessful inspection, it gets immediately taken out of circulation.

Human Factor – The One You Never Discuss

Apart from selection and maintenance of lifting equipment, there is one important issue, which cannot be ignored. People, who actually perform the lift, carry an enormous responsibility that cannot be substituted by any piece of lifting equipment or equipment of any quality.

Professional operators, who know the load weight and its centre of gravity well, tend to feel something is wrong when performing lifting operation. This intuition helps operators to detect potential malfunction at an early stage. Those workers, who have years of experience behind themselves, always stop a job as soon as something suspicious happens and do not insist on proceeding with the job.

Thus, it should be remembered that equipment is only a tool and its maintenance does not guarantee safety, when the operator lacks experience or knowledge about load dynamics.

Conclusion

Good companies, those who operate their lifting equipment with great efficiency, have certain features that distinguish them from others. First, they buy lifting equipment according to their specific needs and requirements. Second, they follow the established inspection routine strictly, even when it is hard. Third, they give special importance to training of their personnel.

Insulated Steel Doorsets

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For most industrial and commercial buildings, insulated core steel doorsets are often the preferred choice. Although they are not the most economical choice, they do provide a lot of capabilities that other doors do not. Steel doorsets are modular, and as a result, can be tailored to provide a combination of features, including but not limited to, security, fire resistance, and the ability to withstand high levels of wear and tear. This modularity is the reason why these doors can be seen in distribution centers, warehouses, and food production facilities among others.

Steel doorsets consist of an insulated core that is sandwiched between two exterior sheets of steel. These can either be galvanized steel or cold-rolled steel. The core can be either foam or mineral wool. Polyurethane foam is the most common choice. It has an excellent thermal performance and is available in a variety of thicknesses. However, it is also the most flammable. Where fire resistance is the primary concern, mineral wool is a much better choice since it does not contribute to fire spread in the way that foam can. Some manufacturers also produce mineral wool-steel foam hybrid doors that try to combine both thermal performance and fire resistance. However, the performance deficits in each aspect of these doors should be examined before making a specification.

For compliance under Part L of the Building Regulations, U-value is the relevant thermal performance metric. For commercial buildings, the current version of the Approved Document L puts the limiting U-value for opaque doors that form part of the building envelope at 1.4 W/m²K. Mainstream manufacturers’ doorsets that are better than this offer U-values of 0.8 to 1.2 W/m²K, meaning there is flexibility available against the limiting U-value, which is particularly important to consider when optimizing the overall energy performance of the building. The worst performing area of the doorset, and the area of the highest thermal bridging, is generally the threshold detail. A highly insulated door that is poorly framed and detailed at the door threshold will perform far worse than the doorset’s specification would lead one to believe.

Fire rating must be outlined independently from thermal performance. In the UK, fire rated doorsets are rated by integrity and insulation: FD30 and FD60 represent the most common ratings in the residential and commercial sectors and signify thirty and sixty minutes of fire resistance, respectively. If the doorset must also inhibit the passage of smoke, then the rating in the UK changes to FD30S or FD60S. For high risk areas, plant rooms, and zones where a longer resistance period is required by a fire engineer, doorsets are rated FD90 or FD120. The UK standard for the fire-resisting doorsets is BS EN 16034. Rather than relying on manufacturer claims, doorsets should be third party certified to this standard.

Incorporating security performance into insulated steel doorsets doesn’t significantly change the construct. Some UK manufacturers have doorsets certified to LPS 1175, and compliance to PAS 24, assessed for the Secured by Design standard, can be done within standard insulated steel constructions. For most commercial applications, doorsets use multi-point locking systems. However, BS EN 1125 compliant hardware is used if the doorset needs to be a fire escape. BS EN 1125 also mandates the doorset be lockable from the interior. Selecting hardware requires careful deliberation, as a doorset designed to be a security doorset that is frequently used, and a doorset designed to be a security doorset that is infrequently used, must have a different hardware configuration.

In controlled environments, thermal insulation requirements extend beyond the doorset. Cold storage doorsets particularly have heating elements built to the frame to mitigate against icing at the seal, and doorsets must withstand the pressure that occurs when a cold air doorset is opened to the warmer ambient air. There is no mistaking the difference between a standard insulated commercial doorset and a cold storage doorset. Insulating the wrong one leads to icing at seals and energy losses that are expensive and difficult to resolve.

Steel doorsets exhibit very little adjustment flexibility after fitting compared to most door types, meaning that installation tolerances matter more with steel doorsets. The structural walls/enclosure need to be built to the correct dimensions to accommodate the steel doorset frame. Validating the dimensions of the structural opening prior to frame installation is especially necessary for the steel doorsets when compared to flexible frame doorsets as the result of fitting steel doorsets into oversize structural openings will look and function much worse compared to fitting the frame into a structural opening built to the proper dimensions.

Winch Cables

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The cable is the working component of any winch system as it is the one that bears the load and transmits the forces and is subjected to the most abuse. Many purchasers of electric winches decide on the pull limits of the winches and the specifications of the motor as their selection criteria. However, the cable should also be given due consideration during the specifications stage.

The most typical winch cable being utilized in the industrial and construction fields is steel wire rope. As per the rope’s construction – number and type of strands, number and type of wires, and the style of laying – determines the rope’s load handling, abrasion and drum winding tolerance. The construction of Caribbean plait of rope, i.e. 6×19, is also a commonly winching type and is designed to have a good combination of flexibility and abrasion resistance. On the construction of Caribbean plait rope, i.e. 6×36, has a higher number of wires in the strands leading to more flexibility and a capability of being utilized in smaller drum diameters, but a rope of 6×36 construction will have a higher surface abrasion.

Steel Wire Rope grade choices matter for industrial and construction winching applications. In simple UK cases, Zinc cables can protect against corrosion. But for more rigorous applications where corrosion protection needs are at a higher level, then the added costs and the added corrosion protection, and perhaps more corrosion protection due to almost all of the work being done by steel cables, are worth noting. Ropes by themselves with the same diameter can differ because of the steel grade.

It is also by steel rope worth mentioning with all of the inherently safe and corrosion us grade differences, the same work load can differ. Additionally, it is by steel rope worth mentioning with all of the inherently safe and corrosion us grade differences, the same work load can differ. The same can be said with all of the inherently safe and corrosion us grade differences, the same work load can differ. The same can be said with all of the inherently safe and corrosion us grade differences, the same work load can differ. The steel rope also needs to be a certain safe grade. One can also add it being corrosion us grade to all steel rope worth mentioning. And lastly, the steel rope can be worth mentioning.

Since the grade differences have to break safety at all five points, the differences have to break at a five grade safety for all applications. One can also add it being coursework grade to all steel rope worth mentioning. And lastly, the steel rope can be worth mentioning. The grade differences are all worth noting.

Swagged ferrules and cable grips are the two most common types of cable terminations found on most winch installations. Fitting a cable end with a swagged closure is a secure, permanent, and non-slip termination that is irreversible and can be a full load connector. Mechanical grips, or bulldog grips, are a popular on-site cable termination and are reversible. They require careful installation and adjustment to the specifics of the cable and load. Improper adjustment and installation of a cable grip may allow it to slip, at a fraction of the load the cable is rated at. Swagged ferrules, or fitted closure, are secure, permanent, and irreversible cable endings but require full load connector attention and care while being irreversible. Mechanical grips, or bulldog grips, are cable terminations and are reversible. They require careful installation and adjustment to the specifics of the cable and load. Improper adjustment and installation of a cable grip may allow it to slip, at a fraction of the load the cable is rated at. Swagged ferrules, or fitted closure, are secure, permanent, and non-slip terminations but also reversible. A cable grip is, in effect, a reversible bulldog grip. Proper adjustment and installation of the specifications of load and cable are crucial to the grip serving its purpose.

In accordance with the regulation of the Lifting Operation and Lifting Equipment (LOLER), a winch cable used in hoisting and lifting need to be SOTR (Satisfactory for Use at the Time of Examination). The cables and winches, minus the lifting implements and attachments, should be examined for signs of wear and fatigue, and safety of the fittings.

Recently, industry championed acceptance of a threshold for wired rope termination over a normed threshold (length of slip, free length). Kinking, crushing, or abrasiveness should also be considered whether or not the threshold is met at the slip.

Specifications often neglect practical elements like drum capacity and cable management. Stacked cable layers bend unevenly. Inner layers suffer additional stress and ultimately have shorter fatigue lives. When a winch operates at maximum drum capacity and at maximum service life, cable rotation, or specifying a drum capable of housing a full working length of cable in a single layer, is vital.

In recovery and off-road applications, many opt instead for HMPE (High Modulus Polyethylene) fibre rope alternatives. Compared to traditional steel rope, fibre rope options are lighter, don’t store as much energy under tension, and less end-use energy push is a safety hazard. These alternatives are a great fit for off-road, recovery, and specialty applications that steel rope are used in where weight and energy-storage hazards make rope snap-back and weight a concern.

When Space Runs Out: The Case for Single Sided Cantilever Racking

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Ask any warehouse manager, and the majority will no doubt agree: there’s never enough space. No matter how well you’ve planned your storage layout, there’s inevitably that awkward corner, that wall space crying out to be utilised, or that awkward length of material that just won’t fit into your standard racking. This is where the single sided cantilever racking comes into its own.

Unlike standard shelving, where the uprights at the front of the racking can be a nuisance when dealing with longer items, the cantilever racking uses a base unit with a rear upright, from which the shelving arms extend. In the case of the single sided cantilever, the shelving arms are mounted from one side, typically against the wall to maximise floor space utilisation. 

Why Businesses Use This Type of Warehouse Shelving

As any business will quickly come to realise, the benefits of the single sided cantilever racking soon become apparent when dealing with awkward items that simply will not fit into standard shelving units. Wood merchants with 6-meter lengths of hardwood, steel merchants with structural steel beams, or plumbers with copper piping all face the same common problem: standard shelving units create problems, not solutions. 

In the case of the single sided cantilever shelving, the obstruction at the front of the shelving unit is eliminated. This means that the forklift truck can be driven up to the shelving from any direction, without the risk of the forks getting stuck between the uprights. This not only speeds up the process but greatly reduces the risk of damage to the stored material, as well as the shelving unit. 

In addition, the wall mounting of the shelving unit ensures that what would otherwise be dead space is utilised to the maximum.

What Makes It Different

The design uses vertical columns that are securely fastened to a strong base. From these columns, horizontal arms extend outwards at varying heights. The beauty here is that you’re not limited to fixed shelf sizes. As you add more items to store, you can simply change the height of the arms to accommodate varying sizes of items you’re storing.

The arms can be made longer or shorter depending on the items you’re storing. For instance, you could use shorter arms for storing smaller items such as PVC pipes and timber bundles. On the other hand, you could use longer arms for storing larger items such as steel rods and aluminium extrusions. The load-bearing capacity of each arm depends on its length as well as the column’s capacity. The system can store anything from a few hundred kilograms to a number of tonnes per level.

As there’s no column at the front, you can store items of virtually any length. This can be especially useful for businesses that use materials that come in varying sizes. For instance, you could be working with timber that comes in varying sizes. One day you could be working with 4-metre pieces, while the following day you could be working with 5.5-metre pieces. This system can handle any sizes you need without any modifications required.

Installation Considerations

It’s not just a case of simply installing the system against a wall. While this may seem obvious, you should ensure that the wall can withstand the forces that will be acting against it as a result of the racking system. This may be especially true for older buildings that may not be as well constructed as more modern buildings. Similarly, you should consider the floor’s capacity. A fully loaded system can put a lot of weight on the base. For concrete floors, you should ensure that the floor is not only thick enough but also strong enough to withstand the forces acting against it.

Access Requirements

Access requirements will also affect your layout. Take into consideration the size of the items that will be stored. Your forklift will need to be able to manoeuvre around the racking. In theory, small spaces can be ideal, but in practice, it can be frustrating when the forklift cannot accurately place items within the storage area.

Running Costs and Maintenance

Once installed, the storage systems will not require a lot of maintenance, unlike other storage solutions. You will need to regularly check the storage area for any damages, particularly to the arms and uprights of the cantilever racking, especially where the forklifts come into contact. Damaged storage equipment is a serious safety hazard. You will need to change any damaged parts immediately.

The cantilever racking’s simplicity is to your advantage when it comes to maintenance. It is not like other storage equipment that uses complex mechanisms. This cantilever racking is basically indestructible. You will, however, need to occasionally touch up the paint. In addition, rust will set into the steel, compromising the integrity of the storage equipment. This, however, will not be a problem with the powder coating. 

Is It Right for Your Operation?

Cantilever racking is perfect for solving storage problems. It will be the best solution when you have items of awkward shapes that will be difficult to place in the storage area. It is perfect when you have the wall space. It is difficult to imagine a better solution than the cantilever racking.

It is ideal when your storage needs cannot be met with standard shelving. It will be the best solution when you want to make the best of your storage space. It is ideal when you want to solve your storage problems. It will be the best solution when your storage needs cannot be met with standard shelving.

It is ideal when your business will benefit from the flexibility of the cantilever racking. It will be the best solution when your storage needs cannot be met with standard shelving. It is ideal when you want to make the best of your storage space. It will be the best solution when your storage needs cannot be met with standard shelving. It is ideal when your business will benefit from the flexibility of the cantilever racking.

What Actually Counts as Safety Lifting Gear?

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This term encompasses a surprisingly wide array of lifting gear and related products. Wire rope slings, synthetic straps, chain blocks, lifting hooks, spreader beams, eyebolts, etc., all come under this broad category. In other words, if it is meant to lift, suspend, or hold something in place, it must comply with certain safety standards, and is also then pretty much classified as lifting gear.

Each type has different applications. Wire ropes work best in high-temperature conditions and have superior durability for rough surfaces. Synthetic straps will not scratch sensitive finishes and have more flexibility for awkward shapes. Chain slings can withstand the rough treatment of sharp edges and extreme temperatures that would destroy other gear. However, it is important to get the right gear for the actual conditions in which it is used.

The Real Cost of Cutting Corners

There is always a temptation to price shop for the right lifting gear. This temptation is especially strong when there is pressure on the company’s finances. However, the following is what this cheaper alternative really means:

  • A lesser working load capacity means more frequent replacements.
  • A shorter inspection period means more frequent inspections.
  • A replacement cost that far exceeds the initial savings.

Good quality lifting gear always comes with certification, specifications, and traceability. It must be possible to find the working load capacity, date of manufacture, and grade of material used for the equipment. If this is not clearly marked on the gear, it is best to avoid it.

Inspection Isn’t Optional

Lifting equipment, like everything else, will deteriorate with time. However, inspection ensures that such deterioration is caught early enough to prevent tragedies from happening.

In the UK, regulations require thorough examination of lifting equipment at appropriate intervals depending on the risk and frequency of use. For most applications, this means examination every six to twelve months. However, it is also recommended that operators perform daily visual checks on the equipment. Check for distortions, cracks, excessive wear, corrosion, or any other form of damage on the equipment. It is also recommended that records are kept. This ensures that one is compliant with regulations during audits. It also ensures that one identifies trends, which might point to problems with the operation or storage of the equipment. For example, if the lifting hook shows excessive wear, it might mean that the loads are not being positioned correctly, hence the wear and tear.

A good starting point in the process of selecting the lifting equipment is to assess what is actually being lifted. We know that weight is a factor, but what about the shape of the load? Its surface condition? Its temperature? Does it need to be lifted in the weather? Are there space considerations that affect the angles in which the equipment is rigged?

Consult with the people who actually perform the lifting work. They know which equipment is most prone to wear, which equipment is most inconvenient to use, and where the equipment is not meeting the job requirements.