When it comes to heavy equipment, both lifting and crane rigging go hand in hand. Even though there is a major difference between the two, some people often find themselves confused. While rigging refers to equipment that works alongside cranes to move and place materials and lifting refer to machines such as forklifts, scissor lifts, and other types. So, let’s take the discussion further and see what other differences lie between the two.
What Are The Types Of Rigging Equipment?
As mentioned previously, rigging refers to equipment that is used alongside cranes. That said, there are several types of rigging used depending on the weight and type of objects that need to be moved and placed. But, its common types are eye bolts, shackles, steel nuts, rigging hooks, etc.
In addition to the types, being a rigger by profession requires one to go through intense training to gain a license. Without a license, a rigger cannot be allowed to work at construction sites. Depending on the country or state, a rigger may have to go through multiple processes to achieve the license.
Countries like Australia offer three classes of rigging: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Once you complete a rigging course from a training organization, you receive a license. This highlights the fact that you are now capable of lifting and placing heavy loads.
How Is Rigging Load Calculated?
Prior to the rigging process, it is important to know about the total weight. However, in some situations, there is no need to calculate the load as the weight is already mentioned on the item or in the engineering prints or design plans.
However, if the weight is not mentioned, you will first need to calculate its volume using a simple formula and refer to the rigging chart. The formula is Volume = Length x Width x Height. With the formula in hand, you should refer to the rigging chart that includes the weight of the material you are about to rig. This will help you calculate an approximate load.
And the weight of the object is calculated by multiplying pounds per cubic foot of the material times the calculated volume of the load.
What Is Critical Lift?
Critical lift is an important part of the rigging. It needs to be carefully and properly understood by both the operator, rigger, and construction manager. A critical lift is a situation where the weight of the lift exceeds 75% of the crane’s rate capacity. This means that the weight is so heavy that the process might need two cranes to carry out the process.
Types Of Lifts
There are several different types of lifting but the most common tend to be indoor and outdoor. The type of lift required is primarily based on the construction site and the type of job. Typically, construction sites perform lifts like cherry pickers, articulating boom lifts, electric scissor lifts, telescopic lifts, etc. They have different uses.
The best thing about these lifts is that they can be used for different tasks and jobs. These lifts are not only used in the construction industry but also in transport where lifting and placing heavy loads is normal.
Lifting Hazards
Lifting is a risky process. Developed countries have strict rules & regulations pertaining to the use of cranes and boom trucks for lifting. There have been several incidents in the past where lifting accidents had resulted in the loss of innocent lives. So, to prevent accidents, there is a whole checklist that the construction manager, project manager, and lifter need to go through before performing this risky task.
Moreover, just like rigging, lifting also requires extensive training and experience. The lifer will need to achieve his/her license before being allowed to lift and shift heavy loads. On the other hand, the machines to be used are also inspected every day and maintained to keep an eye out for potential cracks, damages, or faults.
Final Word
Concluding, it is not possible to know about rigging leaving lifting aside. Both are connected and are sometimes performed simultaneously at construction sites. However, the difference between the two is a major factor that one should understand to keep it safe, secure, and professional. Work with reputed rigging companies MD for safe rigging and lifting.
