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Call us today at (800) 728-0818
Call us today at (800) 728-0818
A below-the-hook lifting device (BHLD) is a specialized tool that attaches to the hoist hook to assist with the safe and efficient lifting applications including handling and maneuvering of specific loads. These lifting devices come in many designs to suit different load shapes, sizes, and weight capacities. AFE Crane offers a wide range of BTHL’s and can even manufacture custom devices for specific application requirements.
The most common type of BHLD is a lifting beam. These lifting devices are often used to combine multiple load points into one lifting point, or to use multiple cranes or hoists to lift a heavy load in tandem. Lifting beams can be built with a broad range of capacities and sizes depending on the customer’s requirements. A lifting beam is often made from structural members and uses multiple rigging points for the hoist hook(s) and for attaching the load.
These are versatile straps or cables used to support and lift a load from various points. Slings come in many materials and configurations to suit specific weight capacities and load shapes.
Rigging is the simplest form of BTHL devices, which includes but is not limited to chains, hooks, shackles and load rings. Despite its simplicity, rigging is a versatile solution when lifting loads of varied sizes and shapes, or when consistent lifting points cannot be guaranteed.
These are horizontal beams that attach to the crane hook and then have multiple slings suspended below them. This helps distribute the weight of the load evenly across multiple lifting points, promoting stability and preventing damage to the load.
Clamps are designed to grip specific shapes or types of loads securely. Examples include C-clamps for pipes or beams, sheet metal clamps, and drum clamps for lifting barrels.
These are specialized hook devices designed for different lifting tasks. Some examples include coil hooks for lifting rolls of material or web slings, and spreader hooks that provide a wider hook opening.
When lifting sheet material such as sheet metal, plywood, and glass sheets, a vacuum sheet lifter is an effective and economical solution. Sheet lifters use vacuum pump systems and suction pads to lift the sheet material. Depending on the weight and the size of material, multiple pumps and suction pads may be required to lift the desired sheet. Sheet lifters typically hang below a hoist hook but can also be rigidly mounted to a double girder (top running or under hung) crane. Sheet lifters can easily rotate or manipulate the part for fabrication or the next assembly step. These utilize suction pads to lift flat, non-porous materials like glass, sheet metal, or plastic.
Below-the-hook lifting devices (BHLDs), OSHA, and ASME compliance work together to ensure safe lifting practices in workplaces.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the governing body that sets workplace safety standards in the United States. While OSHA does not have specific regulations solely for BHLDs, it enforces safe lifting practices through its General Duty Clause. This clause states that employers must provide a workplace free from recognized hazards likely to cause serious physical harm.
The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) B30.20 standard specifically addresses BLHDs. It outlines requirements for the design, construction, inspection, testing, maintenance, and operation of these devices.
Since OSHA enforces safety through the General Duty Clause, they will check if BHLDs are being used in a way that meets the ASME B30.20 standard to ensure a safe working environment, which translates to: Proper Selection, Inspections, Maintenance, and Training. By following OSHA’s General Duty Clause and adhering to the ASME B30.20 standard, workplaces can ensure the safe and proper use of below-the-hook lifting devices. This promotes a safer environment for workers and helps maintain efficient lifting operations.
If none of the above are suitable for your application, contact us, we will work with you to improve your below-the-hook lifting capabilities. A custom BHLD is commonly used to lift uniquely shaped or long loads, spread the load to multiple hooking points, or simply to add safety to the lifting operation, for both personnel and your product. A custom BHLD may be manually controlled or may incorporate electronic or pneumatic devices. AFE Crane will be sure to design your BHLD to fit your needs, while also complying with the latest version of the ASME B30.20 and ASME BTH-1 standards to ensure safe lifting.
AFE utilizes a large comprehensive supply chain for materials and parts in addition to establishing long term relationships with our parts vendors. This relationship helps us to expedite parts so that your equipment can be repaired quickly.
At AFE Crane, we are steadfast in our commitment to improving the safety, precision, and efficiency of heavy machinery operations through our high-quality below-the-hook lifting
PO Box 487
1824 Lincoln Street
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
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