Crane Spreader Beams

Spreader beams (also called lifting beams or spreader bars) are below-the-hook lifting accessories that distribute load through two or more pick-points, improving stability and protecting delicate or long loads from crushing. At Granada Cranes, we supply, certify, and maintain spreader beams for workshops and heavy industry alike – from compact beams for pallet-sized loads to modular systems for outsized fabrications.

Crane Spreader Beams

Why Choose a Spreader Beam?

  • Load stability: Two (or more) slings at a set spread reduce swing and rotation.
  • Protects product: Keeps slings away from the load edges to avoid pinch/crush damage.
  • Safer centre of gravity control: Adjustable lugs and equalising gear improve balance.
  • Versatile rigging: Works with chain, webbing, wire-rope slings, shackles & hooks.
  • Efficient lifts: Faster set-up for repetitive or long/awkward items.
Crane Spreader Beam

Spreader Beam Types

  • Fixed-length beams: Simple, robust solution for repeat lifts at known spreads.
  • Adjustable (telescopic) beams: Slide/bolt to multiple spans to suit variable loads.
  • Modular beams: Bolted sections to build different spans and capacities from one kit.
  • H-frames / lifting frames: Multi-point spreaders for large, flexible or sheet loads.
  • Low-headroom beams: Compact lug geometry for restricted headroom environments.

Additional Information

All spreader beams supplied by Granada Cranes are designed and certified as lifting accessories and delivered with a valid test certificate. We support compliance with UK legislation and standards, including LOLER and PUWER, and can align with relevant EN standards and client specifications. Periodic thorough examination (at least every 6 months for accessories) is available via our nationwide service team.

Parameter Typical Range / Option
Safe Working Load (SWL) From 0.5 t to 100 t+ (bespoke on request)
Span / Spread 0.5 m to 12 m+ (fixed, telescopic, or modular)
Top Connection Central top lug, twin-lift lugs, or bail
Bottom Connections Shackle lugs, hook points, or swivel hooks
Finish Primer + enamel, powder coat, or galvanised
Identification Stamped plate with SWL, serial no., CE/UKCA data
Documentation Proof-load certificate, material certs, user guide
Accessories Slings, shackles, load cells, corner protectors
  • Steel fabrication & metalwork: Beams, plate, frames, welded assemblies.
  • Construction & precast: Panels, rebar cages, stair flights, mould tools.
  • Manufacturing: Machine beds, jigs & fixtures, fabrications.
  • Energy & utilities: Transformers, switchgear, turbine components.
  • Marine & offshore: Skids, pipe spools, equipment housings.
  • Warehousing & logistics: Crated machinery, long crates or bundles.
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Choosing the Right Spreader Beam

  1. Define the load: weight, dimensions, centre of gravity, stiffness, and lift points.
  2. Confirm headroom: available hook height vs beam depth and sling angle.
  3. Pick the spread: fixed, telescopic, or modular to suit your range of products.
  4. Select connections: shackle size, hook type, and sling material (chain/web/rope).
  5. Plan inspection: accessory registers, certificates, and service intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Spreader beams work in compression with slings in tension at the ends; lifting beams often pick from multiple bottom points and can see bending. Spreader beams are typically preferred for long loads and sling angle control.

Yes. Modular systems let you build different spans and capacities from a shared kit, ideal for varied product ranges and transport constraints.

They can — compared to a V-sling direct to the hook — but the beam itself has depth. We also design low-headroom variants where space is tight.

We can supply a complete, certified lift set: spreader beam, slings, shackles, hooks, and optional load cells, all matched to the SWL and geometry.

Get a Quote or Site Survey

Tell us about your load, your hook height, and the spans you need. We’ll recommend the right spreader beam – fixed, adjustable, or modular – and provide a quick proposal with lead time, proof-load testing, and certification included.

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