Whether a load is irregularly shaped, extremely heavy, or exceptionally fragile, there is a wide range of different, application-specific attachments that can be added to an overhead crane or monorail’s hoist to safely and securely lift or position different loads. Known as below the hook attachments, or end effectors, these devices—offered by overhead handling equipment manufacturers—are typically based on a standard design that is modified to accommodate the specific requirements or features of the load to be handled.

Among the many types of attachments available are:

• C hook: This device enables the lifting of a coil of material. A hook is inserted the coil’s inner diameter, while an integrated motor—attached to the bottom block of a hoist—powers the hook’s rotation for additional load control.
• Gripping lifters: Constructed to use either friction or indentation-causing pressure to hold a load, these devices feature tong grabs, coil grabs or clamps that utilize a scissor-type action for grip.
• Mechanical lifters: Composed of two or more rigid parts, these devices move in tandem when manually actuated to secure the load.
• Vacuum lifters: These devices utilize an electric-powered extraction pump and sealed pads to create a vacuum to attach the lifter to an object.
• Sheet lifters: To grab a load of sheet metal or wood, these attachments use two claws that wrap around the edges. An integrated lip on the lower portion of the claws prevents the sheet from falling out of the lifter.
• Pallet lifters: Incorporating forks, these devices lift pallets from underneath.
• Lifting beams: Constructed of solid or fabricated metal, or from wood, a beam is suspended from a hoist/crane to provide multiple load lifting points for better security and control of the load’s movement. A spreader beam uses two or more hooks to spread the load over more than one lifting point.
• Magnets: Utilized either with or without an electrical power supply, these devices lift, carry or release flat or round ferrous objects.
• Slings or strap hoists: Made of nylon, polyester, wire rope or chain lift, these attachments handle materials that are too large and bulky to be transported any other way, such as steel coils or sheets.
• Drum turners: These devices grip and turn drums over for filling and emptying.

Want to learn more about overhead handling attachments? MHI’s Overhead Alliance (which includes the Crane Manufacturers Association of America (CMAA), the Hoist Manufacturers Institute (HMI), and the Monorail Manufacturers Association (MMA)) explores 13 different ways these technologies enhance manufacturing and distribution operations in the free publication, “Expand Your Possibilities. Discover the Potential. Choose Overhead Lifting.”