🔧 Hoists & Lifting Tools
Spreader Beam Inspection & Certification in Saudi Arabia
A spreader beam is a below-the-hook device that works in compression, with slings or shackles hanging vertically from each end so the lifting legs do not squeeze long or fragile loads such as pipe, precast units, cabins and modules. It is common in fabrication yards, pipe laydown areas and plant construction in Saudi Arabia, and many are fabricated locally to suit a particular job. A site-built beam without a design basis, weld records or a proof test is a real hazard, so independent inspection and load testing before first use are essential.
What we inspect on a spreader beam
- ✓Main beam for straightness, bowing, dents and local buckling of the web or flanges
- ✓Welds at the lifting lugs, padeyes and end fittings, visually and with MPI or dye penetrant where required
- ✓Padeyes and lifting lugs for hole elongation, wear, cracks, deformation and adequate edge distance
- ✓Adjustable beams: locking pins, pin holes and position markings for the rated configurations
- ✓Shackles and end connections for correct size, pin security and compatibility with the rated load
- ✓Section loss and corrosion, especially inside box sections, and condition of the coating
- ✓Marking of safe working load, self-weight, serial number and permitted sling angles
- ✓Design calculation or drawing, material certificates and previous test records
Common defects we find
- ✓Cracked welds at padeyes or end plates
- ✓Beam bent or locally dented after an impact or an off-centre pick
- ✓Pin holes elongated or padeyes worn out of tolerance
- ✓Missing or illegible SWL and self-weight marking
- ✓Unauthorised weld repair or modification without re-testing
Risks of operating uncertified
- ✓Sudden buckling or weld failure dropping the load
- ✓Overload from an unrated beam used beyond its design span or sling angle
- ✓Unstable or tilting load because the sling configuration does not match the rated arrangement
Testing, standards & frequency
Load / performance test
A proof load test is typically carried out at 100%-125% of rated capacity depending on the standard and client, with the beam checked for permanent deformation afterwards and critical welds examined by NDT where required.
Inspection interval
Typically a thorough examination at least annually, plus an inspection before first use and after any repair, modification or damage, with a visual check before each lift.
Standards referenced
- ASME B30.20 (Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices)
- ASME BTH-1 (Design of Below-the-Hook Lifting Devices)
- Manufacturer specifications and load charts
- Saudi Aramco General Instructions (GI), where applicable
Part of our Lifting Equipment Inspection & Load Testing service. You receive an inspection report, Certificate of Conformity and inspection tag for passing equipment.
Spreader Beam inspection by city
Industries using this equipment
FAQs
Does a site-fabricated spreader beam need a design calculation?＋
Yes. A locally built beam should have a design basis that supports its rated capacity, along with material certificates and weld records. Inspectors will normally ask for these before carrying out the proof load test.
What is the difference between a spreader beam and a lifting beam?＋
A spreader beam works mainly in compression and keeps the sling legs vertical, with load hung from each end. A lifting beam works in bending with a lifting point at the centre and loads hung below it, usually to keep the load level.