Scope
The primary objective of the system is to enable the safe and controlled removal and installation of an electric wire rope hoist mounted on an existing structural beam.
The lifting system is specifically designed to:
- Interface with an existing S12×50 structural steel beam
- Maintain balanced, dual-point lifting, preventing eccentric or single-point loading conditions
- Operate using two manually operated hand chain hoists (HCH) configured symmetrically
The system is engineered and validated for a Safe Working Load (SWL) of 3,000 lb, based on structural analysis and application-specific loading conditions.
Design
Improves predictability of load transfer and enables easy inspection and maintenance.
The lifting system is composed of a fabricated steel bracket assembly, consisting of:
- Structural channel sections (C3×4.1)
- Reinforcing steel plates (1/2″ and 1/4″)
- A bolted framework forming a rigid load-transfer structure
The bracket geometry:
- Spans and aligns with the supporting beam
- Creates two lifting points for load sharing
- Provides sufficient stiffness to minimize deformation under load
The design was validated using SolidWorks Static Finite Element Analysis (FEA) which confirms stress distribution and verifies load capacity (SWL 3000 lb)
Features
- Dual hoist configuration enforces load sharing and prevents torsional loading
- Explicit prohibition of single-point loading
- Two-person operation ensures controlled, synchronized lifting
Each unit includes:
- Capacity nameplates and markings
This ensures:
- Clear identification of rated load
- Provided traceability to approved design documentation