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.