What is a turning beam and what is it used for?
Turning beams are used on a crane to safely rotate or turn solid loads, such as steel structures or precast concrete elements. Both manually operated and electrically powered turning beams are available. Turning beams are usually used on a single load hook. Custom designs for tandem crane operation are also available.
Two lifting belts are normally used for turning. The distance between the lifting belts can be adjusted manually or electrically. The lifting belts ensure safe handling that is gentle on the material. The load can be stopped in any desired position. If the load has sharp edges, edge protectors must be used.
What load capacity does my turning beam need?
The required load capacity depends on the weight of the load to be lifted. The load capacity of the existing hoist must also be taken into account.
Which workpieces can be turned with a turning beam?
A turning beam can safely turn heavy and bulky parts, for example: steel girders, sheet metal stacks, machine components, precast concrete elements, welded structures and containers. What matters is that the weight, dimensions and centre of gravity of the load are suitable for use with a turning beam. The turning beam makes it possible to rotate workpieces, such as welded structures, into the optimum position.
How does safe rotating and turning of a load work?
The turning beam is driven either manually via a self-locking gearbox or electrically via a geared motor. The torque is transmitted by friction from the driven drums to the lifting belts and the load being turned.
Which inspections and safety regulations must be observed?
Turning beams are subject to the German DGUV Rule 109-017 "Operation of load handling attachments and slings in hoist operation". An inspection by a competent person must be carried out before commissioning and at least once a year. The operator must ensure that the inspection results are documented. The device may only be used in accordance with the operating instructions.
Can a turning beam be custom-built to my requirements?
WIMAG manufactures both standard units and custom designs tailored to your individual requirements.
