Delivering Smart Lifting Solutions: Lift‑Rite Supplies Custom Jib Arm to North East Blue-Chip Client

Jib Crane Complete

 

At Lift‑Rite, we pride ourselves on solving complex lifting challenges with engineered precision, practical expertise, and a client-first approach. A recent project for a leading blue-chip client in the North East of England highlights our commitment to tailored lifting solutions backed by robust engineering and deep rigging knowledge.

The Challenge: Precision Lifting in a Confined Testing Environment

Our client operates a highly controlled test facility where product samples are frequently moved in and out of a test pit. Space was tight, the operation had to be safe and repeatable, and the lifting solution needed to be compact yet structurally sound.

To meet this, Lift-Rite was tasked with designing and supplying a wall-mounted jib arm that could swing in and out of position to safely handle samples. Unlike standard off-the-shelf systems, this project required a bespoke approach to ensure operational safety, optimal reach, and load stability within a constrained working environment.

The Solution: FEA-Driven, Custom-Designed Wall-Mounted Jib Arm

Using our in-house engineering capability, Lift‑Rite developed a custom jib arm that was securely mounted to a structural wall, with a swinging boom that allowed the operator to precisely position samples over the test pit and retract when not in use.

To validate the design, our engineers conducted a full Finite Element Analysis (FEA)—a critical step in confirming the system’s structural integrity under various load conditions. This analysis ensured that all components could safely handle the working load limit (WLL) while maintaining the necessary safety factors.

Engineering Meets Practical Rigging Know-How

What sets Lift‑Rite apart is our ability to combine engineering accuracy with real-world lifting experience. Our team used extensive rigging knowledge to optimise the lifting geometry, swing radius, and lifting path—ensuring the solution was not only technically sound but also operator-friendly.

The result was a compact, efficient, and safe lifting system designed specifically for the client’s operational needs. Every detail—from the swing angle to the choice of anchor bolts—was carefully considered to provide long-term reliability and safety.

Key Highlights

  • Custom-engineered jib arm with full FEA validation
  • Mounted securely to the wall with a swinging radius tailored to client needs
  • Designed to lift test samples in and out of a pit safely and efficiently
  • Developed for a blue-chip manufacturing client in the North East
  • Seamless integration of design, fabrication, and rigging expertise.

Why Clients Choose Lift‑Rite

This project reflects Lift‑Rite’s core strengths: engineering-led design, on-site practicality, and an ability to create bespoke lifting solutions that work where standard products fall short.

Whether it’s a specialist offshore termination globally, a certified lifting beam for an industrial plant, or a one-off jib arm for a testing lab, Lift‑Rite delivers precision solutions, wherever our clients need us.

Let’s Build Something That Works

If your project calls for custom lifting solutions backed by engineering and practical expertise, we’re here to help. Contact Lift‑Rite today to discuss how we can support your operational goals with safe, effective, and certified lifting equipment.

Get in Touch with Lift‑Rite

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Lift-Rite: The UK’s Market Leader in Weight Hire Solutions

When it comes to heavy-duty weight hire, Lift-Rite is the name that stands above the rest. With a proven track record and a fleet that’s second to none, Lift-Rite has positioned itself as the UK’s leading provider of certified test weights and support cradles, trusted across industries and especially prominent in major defence and infrastructure projects nationwide.

Whether it’s for a critical load test, crane certification, or structural verification, clients turn to Lift-Rite for reliable, safe, and scalable weight hire solutions.

A Cradle for Every Requirement

At the core of Lift-Rite’s weight hire offering is a diverse and ever-expanding range of cradles, carefully designed to support various lifting configurations and capacities. The current fleet of cradles covers test weights from 25 tonnes to 400 tonnes, offering flexibility for both small-scale and ultra-heavy testing requirements.

From compact units for confined, low head room testing environments to large-scale cradles built to manage complex rigging scenarios, every Lift-Rite cradle is built to rigorous safety and engineering standards.

Constantly Growing, Constantly Improving

What sets Lift-Rite apart is its commitment to continual investment in the fleet. In recent months alone, the company has expanded its offering with the addition of:

  • Two 25-tonne cradles & dedicated beams – ideal for smaller or more precise load applications
  • A 150-tonne cradle – offering mid-range flexibility with robust design
  • A 400-tonne cradle – one of the largest of its kind, designed for high-capacity industrial and offshore testing

This ongoing growth reflects Lift-Rite’s dedication to meeting evolving client demands and ensuring availability, no matter the project size or location.

Supporting Major Projects Across the UK

Lift-Rite’s test weights and cradles are currently deployed on some of the UK’s largest and most high-profile defence projects. From naval shipbuilding to aerospace infrastructure and MOD contracts, where the company’s equipment is actively contributing to mission-critical testing operations.

Clients benefit from Lift-Rite’s ability to manage the logistics to mobilise heavy test weights quickly and safely, backed by a team of professionals who understand the importance of precision and compliance in high-stakes environments.

Flexible Hire Terms to Suit Every Project

Understanding that no two projects are the same, Lift-Rite offers both short-term and long-term weight hire options. Whether it’s a single test or a multi-phase project spanning several months, the company ensures that clients receive the exact solution they need, for as long as they need it.

This flexible approach has made Lift-Rite the preferred partner for engineering firms, defence contractors, testing houses, and more.

When it comes to weight hire, Lift-Rite doesn’t just lead the market—they set the standard.

With a comprehensive fleet, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to quality, Lift-Rite is the trusted choice for projects where safety, reliability, and performance are non-negotiable.

To learn more or to discuss your project requirements, visit https://lift-rite.com or get in touch with the team today.

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Lift-Rite: The UK Leader in Bespoke Load Testing

When it comes to bespoke load testing in the UK, Lift-Rite stands in a league of its own. With decades of experience and a track record of engineering excellence, Lift-Rite has established itself as the go-to partner for the most complex load testing challenges across multiple industries—including shipbuilding, defence contractors and the Ministry of Defence (MOD).

Unlike other providers, Lift-Rite is the only company in the UK solely dedicated to this level of custom load testing. From design and fabrication to testing and certification, every step is handled in-house by a team of highly experienced professionals who thrive on delivering tailor-made solutions.

Engineering Confidence at Scale

Over the years, Lift-Rite has consistently raised the bar in heavy-load testing. The company has led on numerous high-profile tests, including successful load tests up to 270 tonnes, setting the standard for precision and safety in the sector.

In a recent test for an MOD subcontractor, critical components to be included in the next generation of British submarines were load tested independently, prior to installation on the boat.

Due to the nature of the components, space and tolerances were extremely fine, bespoke link plates and test frame were designed as there were no ‘off the shelf’ components available suitable for the loads involved.

This operation highlights Lift-Rite’s position as the only provider in the UK to offer bespoke load testing with the ability to take a client’s complex lifting requirement and deliver a fully engineered, tested, and certified solution from concept to execution.

Trusted by Shipbuilders, Defence Contractors, and the MOD

Lift-Rite is a trusted partner to the UK’s most critical industries. The company regularly works with leading shipbuilders and defence contractors, delivering custom load testing solutions that meet strict regulatory and operational standards while maintaining complete confidentiality.

Whether it’s structural testing for naval assets, testing custom lifting equipment for defence logistics, or certifying new lifting points on specialist vessels, Lift-Rite combines deep technical know-how with an agile, client-focused approach.

Why Clients Choose Lift-Rite

  • True Bespoke Capability – Every project is unique, and Lift-Rite has the in-house engineering, fabrication, and testing capacity to build solutions from the ground up.
  • Unmatched Experience – With decades of real-world load testing experience, the team understands the intricacies of working under extreme load and compliance conditions.
  • End-to-End Service – From CAD design to final certification, Lift-Rite delivers a seamless experience, ensuring clients get exactly what they need, on time and to specification.
  • MOD and Defence Proven – Trusted to perform under the highest scrutiny, Lift-Rite is a proven partner to the defence sector.

When the load is critical, and failure is not an option, Lift-Rite is the name the UK’s leading industries rely on.

Learn more about how Lift-Rite and how we can support your next project at https://lift-rite.com.

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Successful Load Testing at Guernsey Harbour

At Lift-Rite, we take pride in delivering seamless and professional solutions for gangway and platform load testing across the UK and beyond. Recently, we successfully completed a significant contract at Guernsey Harbour, demonstrating our expertise and commitment to safety, efficiency, and compliance.

The Project: Ensuring Safety and Functionality at Guernsey Harbour

Guernsey Harbour required the load testing of two gangways and a hydraulically operated passenger access platform as part of routine maintenance and compliance protocols. These critical assets needed to meet stringent safety standards to ensure the smooth operation of the harbour and the safety of its users.

Lift-Rite was tasked with managing every aspect of the project, from planning to execution, including:

  • Supplying an expert team to carry out the tests.
  • Conducting the load testing using waterbags with a maximum load of 18 tonnes.
  • Coordinating the entire operation with precision to ensure minimal disruption to the harbour’s daily activities.

Comprehensive Project Management: Lift-Rite in Action

One of the standout features of this project was Lift-Rite’s ability to manage all manpower, logistics, and safety documentation. From getting our team and specialised equipment to Guernsey to ensuring compliance with all safety protocols, we handled every detail, including:

  • Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS): Comprehensive planning ensured a safe and efficient testing process.
  • Logistics Coordination: Organising transportation for personnel and equipment to and from Guernsey Harbour.
  • On-Site Expertise: Our skilled engineers worked efficiently, demonstrating technical excellence throughout the operation.

The entire process was conducted under the client’s insurance inspector, who witnessed the load tests and verified compliance with all required safety and operational standards.

Testing Process and Results

The load testing process involved using precision-calibrated waterbags, filled incrementally to apply a controlled load of up to 18 tonnes on the gangways and passenger access platform. This method ensured accuracy and safety while simulating real-world operational stresses.

Each test was successfully completed, confirming the structural integrity and functionality of the equipment. The client was highly satisfied with the results, knowing their critical assets are fully operational and compliant with industry standards.

The Advantage of Partnering with Lift-Rite

This successful project highlights the key benefits of partnering with Lift-Rite:

  1. Turnkey Solutions: From manpower to logistics, we manage every detail, ensuring a hassle-free experience for our clients.
  2. Technical Expertise: Our team of skilled professionals bring unmatched experience in load testing and inspections.
  3. Global Reach: Whether at a local port or a remote harbour like Guernsey, we deliver consistent quality and reliability.
  4. Compliance Assurance: All work is carried out to meet the highest safety standards and industry regulations.

A Trusted Partner for Maritime Safety

Lift-Rite’s successful completion of this contract at Guernsey Harbour is another testament to our dedication to providing top-tier services in gangway and platform safety. With every project, we continue to solidify our reputation as a trusted partner in the maritime industry.

Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive solutions.

Visit us at lift-rite.com for more information.

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Successful Load Testing of Ship Components for an MOD Contractor

At Lift-Rite, we pride ourselves on delivering tailored, high-quality solutions to meet the most demanding industry requirements. Recently, we successfully completed a challenging load testing project for a Ministry of Defence (MOD) contractor, demonstrating our technical expertise and ability to innovate in the maritime and defence sectors.

The Challenge: Testing Ship Components to Critical Standards

The project required the load testing of a vital ship component, with a load of 277 tonnes applied hydraulically. Given the complexity of the component and the extreme forces involved, the test demanded precision, bespoke equipment, and flawless execution. The component was critical to the operational safety and performance of the vessel, so accuracy and compliance were paramount.

Lift-Rite’s Solution: Bespoke Design and Expert Execution

To meet this challenge, Lift-Rite engineered a custom-designed test jig specifically for this project. This innovative test jig allowed for secure mounting of the component and integration with the hydraulic jacking equipment required to apply the massive load. The bespoke solution was key to ensuring the test could be conducted safely, efficiently, and accurately.

Our Approach:

  1. Design and Fabrication of Test Jig:
    • Lift-Rite designed and fabricated the jig in-house, tailoring it to the unique specifications of the component and the load-testing requirements, overcoming some significant challenges to deliver a safe and efficient solution.
    • The jig ensured the component could withstand the applied forces and remain securely in place during the test.
  2. Precision Load Application:
    • Using hydraulic jacking & load monitoring equipment, a load of 277 tonnes was applied to the component.
    • The process was closely monitored to ensure accurate load distribution and compliance with the contractor’s strict requirements.
  3. Testing Expertise and Safety:
    • The testing was carried out by Lift-Rite’s experienced team, ensuring every step adhered to the highest safety and quality standards.
    • Comprehensive Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) were developed and implemented to ensure a safe working environment.

The Outcome: A Milestone in Maritime Testing

The load test was successfully completed, verifying the component’s ability to perform under extreme conditions. Lift-Rite’s bespoke solution and attention to detail not only met but exceeded the expectations of the MOD contractor.

This project highlights Lift-Rite’s ability to:

  • Deliver Bespoke Solutions: Custom-designed equipment and innovative approaches are part of our DNA.
  • Ensure Precision Under Pressure: The ability to apply loads with pinpoint accuracy ensures compliance and reliability.
  • Collaborate with Industry Leaders: Working with MOD contractors demonstrates our expertise working in sensitive and highly confidential environments.

Why Choose Lift-Rite for Load Testing?

With decades of experience in the maritime and industrial sectors, Lift-Rite offers unparalleled expertise in load testing. Our ability to design, fabricate, and execute bespoke solutions sets us apart as a trusted partner for complex projects.

Whether for military, commercial, or industrial applications, Lift-Rite is equipped to handle projects of any scale and complexity.

Looking Ahead

As a leading provider of testing and inspection services, Lift-Rite remains committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and safety. Our recent work with the MOD contractor is just one example of how we provide exceptional service to meet the evolving needs of our clients.

For more information about our bespoke load testing solutions, visit lift-rite.com or contact our team today.

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Lift-Rite Secures ISO 45001 Certification, Strengthening “Safety in Our Culture” Commitment

At Lift-Rite, safety isn’t just a policy—it’s part of our identity. We’re thrilled to announce that Lift-Rite has achieved ISO 45001 certification, the internationally recognised standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems. This certification reinforces our dedication to safety as one of our core values and highlights our proactive approach to maintaining the highest standards for the well-being of our employees, clients, and partners.

Why ISO 45001 Matters

ISO 45001 is the world’s first international standard focused on occupational health and safety. Developed by leading experts, it provides a structured framework to reduce workplace risks, enhance safety, and promote the mental and physical well-being of employees. For Lift-Rite, achieving ISO 45001 is a validation of our comprehensive safety practices and a major step in fostering a culture where safety is embedded in every action we take.

With ISO 45001 in place, we are better equipped to anticipate and prevent, ultimately enhancing both operational efficiency and team morale. This achievement sends a powerful message to our customers and stakeholders about our unwavering commitment to safety excellence.

A Core Value: “Safety in Our Culture”

At Lift-Rite, safety is more than a set of rules—it’s a deeply rooted value we live by. One of our core values, “Safety in Our Culture,” guides every decision we make, from day-to-day operations to long-term planning. ISO 45001 certification serves as an important milestone in reinforcing this commitment, providing a strong foundation that supports our safety-first culture.

Through ISO 45001’s structured approach, we now have even more robust processes for:

  • Risk Assessment and Prevention: Identifying potential risks before they become incidents and implementing preventative measures to safeguard our team.
  • Employee Training and Engagement: Offering comprehensive safety training that empowers every team member to be proactive about safety.
  • Continuous Improvement: Regular audits and assessments that keep our safety practices evolving and aligned with the latest industry standards.

Building Trust with Clients and Partners

Securing ISO 45001 not only enhances our internal practices but also strengthens our relationships with clients and partners. This certification demonstrates that Lift-Rite is an organisation they can trust to maintain safety as a priority on every project. In an industry where safety is paramount, ISO 45001 is more than a standard—it’s a benchmark that assures our partners we’re committed to protecting everyone involved in our operations.

Looking Forward: ‘Safety in Our Culture’

Achieving ISO 45001 is a major accomplishment for Lift-Rite, but it’s just one part of our ongoing journey to continue making safety integral to our success. We look forward to continuously enhancing our safety practices, setting new industry standards, and further embedding “Safety in Our Culture” across our organisation.

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Lift-Rite Secures Renewal of SafeContractor Accreditation for Excellence in Health & Safety

Lift-Rite is proud to announce the renewal of its SafeContractor accreditation, awarded by Alcumus SafeContractor. This prestigious certification recognises Lift-Rite’s dedication to maintaining rigorous safety standards and showcases the company’s commitment to creating a secure and supportive work environment. For Lift-Rite, SafeContractor certification is a key step in ensuring a uniform, company-wide standard for health and safety practices.

SafeContractor is designed to ensure contractors meet stringent safety benchmarks, providing assurance to clients, partners, and insurers that certified companies uphold industry-leading safety policies. Lift-Rite’s achievement of SafeContractor status demonstrates a proactive commitment to risk management that benefits employees, clients, and the wider community.

A Commitment to Excellence in Safety and Quality

The accreditation aligns with Lift-Rite’s broader strategy of continuous improvement, focusing on technical training and quality. “Lift-Rite is committed to a safe working environment, ensuring our colleagues return safely to their families at the end of every day. This external recognition demonstrates our commitment to delivering the best possible safety standards in the industry and is part of our wider strategy to raise technical and quality standards through our ongoing training programme with LEEA and our maintenance of quality standards ISO 9001 & EN1090.”

Leading the Way in Industry Standards

With SafeContractor accreditation, Lift-Rite solidifies its standing as a trusted contractor for clients seeking reliable, safety-focused solutions. The commitment to health and safety reflected in this accreditation sets an example within the sector, underscoring the critical importance of safe, compliant practices that protect people, partners, and communities.

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Lift-Rite: Your Trusted Fall Protection Supplier

When it comes to working at height, safety is a must. At Lift-Rite we know the importance of fall protection and are a trusted supplier and installer of 3M fall protection systems across many industries. Whether you’re in construction, energy, infrastructure or anywhere where lifting is necessary, Lift-Rite has the know-how, equipment and commitment to keep your workers safe.

Why Safety Lines Are Essential 

Fall protection systems provide workers with a convenient attachment point to help them avoid falls while giving them freedom of movement to work effectively. Safety lines are often found on roofs, ladders, bridges, cranes and other areas with high risk of falling.

Safety is in Lift-Rite’s DNA. For that reason, all our safety lines are designed, installed and maintained at the highest level to meet all standards and deliver quality protection.

When choosing a provider for safety lines, reliability, quality, and expertise are crucial. Here’s why Lift-Rite is the partner of choice for clients looking for high-performance safety line solutions:

  1. Expert Design and Installation

Every worksite is different and so are its safety requirements. Lift-Rite can customise a safety line solution to meet the specific requirements of your environment. Our professional experts conduct a full site survey, assess your safety requirements, and tailor a system suited to your needs that complies with all relevant safety standards such as BS EN 795 for fall protection systems.

Once the design is completed it is installed by our certified technicians. We ensure that all safety lines are tested and installed correctly, giving workers maximum protection, whilst allowing them the flexibility to carry out their tasks without restriction.

  1. Quality Equipment

Our fall protection systems at Lift-Rite are built with the most appropriate materials and components for the application. We procure equipment directly from major suppliers to ensure durability, strength and reliability. From horizontal to vertical lifelines, or retractable fall arrest systems, you can rest assured that our products will withstand the needs of your workplace.

  1. Compliance with Industry Standards

Safety compliance is non-negotiable.  All of Lift-Rite’s fall protection systems are installed and maintained to the highest standards of BS EN 795, the fall protection standard. We also make sure that solutions align with any regulatory requirements of your industry or site to ensure your work force is protected to the best possible standards.

  1. Comprehensive Maintenance and Inspection

Maintaining your safety systems is just as important as installing them. Lift-Rite can perform regular maintenance and inspections to keep your safety lines in peak condition. Inspections identify and damage, and we can do any necessary repairs or replacements to maintain your system in working order and complying with safety standards.

Our maintenance is timely and efficient, ensuring your safety lines are always operationally sound and ready to safeguard your employees.

  1. Proven Track Record

With years of experience in delivering safety solutions, Lift-Rite has a proven track record of excellence. Our clients include companies in a wide range of industries, and we provide fall protection solutions that make it possible to work safely at height in some of the most hazardous conditions. We are trusted by our customers due to our extensive knowledge of safety line systems and a total dedication to quality and safety.

Why Safety Matters 

In the UK, the HSE states that the biggest employer-related injuries and deaths are attributable to height-based falls. Ensuring your workers have access to reliable fall protection equipment is not only important for their safety, but also for compliance with legal safety regulations.

Investing in a high-quality Lift-Rite safety line system, not only prevents accidents but also proves that you value the safety of your workers. By placing safety first, you reduce costly accidents, secure your workers, and increase productivity by allowing workers to feel confident they’re secure.

Lift-Rite Keeps Your Team Safe!

Lift-Rite is the name you can trust when it comes to providing fall protection systema and personal fall protection equipment. Our expertise in fall protection systems, combined with our dedication to quality, ensures that your workers are protected at every height. Whether you need a complete installation, maintenance, or inspection services, we’re here to help.

 

For a safe and trustworthy source of fall protection systems, choose Lift-Rite. For more information or to learn how we can keep your employees safe, please visit https://lift-rite.com/ to speak with one of our specialists and find out how we can support you and your team.

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Lift-Rite Wins £250,000 Baker Hughes Contract for Two bespoke Spreader Beams

Lift-Rite Engineering Services is pleased to announce that is has been awarded a £250,000 contract from Baker Hughes, a world leader in energy technology. The alliance reinforces Lift-Rite’s expertise in offering lifting solutions to the largest industry players and will see the business design, manufacture and deliver two spreader beams.

Meeting Baker Hughes’ Rigorous Standards 

Baker Hughes, whose facilities span 120+ countries, needed robust, reliable and high-performance lifting solutions for their complex industrial projects. They selected Lift-Rite based on the company’s strong track record delivering reliable, bespoke lifting solutions that meet the most stringent safety and operational requirements.

The spreader beams, vital for moving large, heavy and awkward loads, will be specially designed to Baker Hughes’ rigorous requirements for its global operations and will be made to distribute the burden of heavy lifting loads as effectively as possible, ensuring best stability and maximum productivity.

What Are Spreader Beams? 

A spreader beam is a lifting device that balances heavy or awkward loads in crane lifts by dispersing the load weight over multiple hoisting locations. This reduces the strain on the load and the lifting equipment. Spreader beams are crucial in industries such as oil and gas, construction, and heavy engineering—sectors where safety and precision are paramount.

Tailor-Made Solutions for Baker Hughes 

Our skill is to create lifting solutions that are not only safe and compliant with regulatory standards, but also custom made to the requirements of our clients. For Baker Hughes, this is about building two custom spreader beams that can handle their demanding operations.

  • Custom Engineering: Each spreader beam will be designed and engineered specifically for Baker Hughes’ specific load specifications. Our engineers will design the beams in such a way that they can withstand high-demand usage and be as safe and efficient as possible.
  • Best Materials: All Lift-Rite lifting products are manufactured with quality, fully traceable and certified materials that meet with the clients specific requirements.
  • EN1090: Lift Rites manufacturing processes are in accordance with EN1090, ensuring full compliance with the standard on material and manufacturing traceability.
  • Comprehensive Testing: To further ensure safety, reliability and accordance with LOLER, the spreader beams are rigorously tested to ensure compliance with industry standards.

Building Our Relationship with Baker Hughes

The contract is an important achievement for us and our partnership with Baker Hughes, one of the most reputable names in the energy technology community. The award further consolidates Lift-Rite’s position as a trusted provider of high-precision lifting solutions in the global energy and industrial markets.

Continued Commitment to Excellence 

Lift-Rite takes pride in offering customers the best quality lifting solutions that meet their requirements. The £250,000 Baker Hughes contract is proof of how we continue to provide cost effective, top-class lifting products and services that allow the biggest industrial companies to operate with the highest levels of safety and efficiency.

We and our team look forward to continuing our relationship with Baker Hughes and ensuring we remain a leader in the lifting equipment market.

Learn more about Lift-Rite’s custom lifting solutions at https://lift-rite.com or contact us today to discuss how we can help with your lifting.

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FEA Analysis Update

Using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) To Ensure Our Products Optimise Performance and Ensure Cost Effectiveness

Innovation is a core value at Lift-Rite, and we are always using advanced engineering techniques like Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to ensure our products perform to the very highest standards.

What is Finite Element Analysis?

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a computer-based tool used for predicting the response of structures and materials to real-world conditions. This could be the forces exerted on a structure by heavy loads, the impact of vibration or the effects of thermal changes, all of which are simulated virtually.

The underlying principle of FEA is to break down any complex structure into simpler, smaller parts that are easier to analyse. These small parts are called ‘finite elements’ because they are bounded in terms of their size and shape. These finite elements are then calculated separately, leading to a relatively simpler and easier set of calculations. They elements are then combined in order to get a complete picture of the entire structure.

The Process of FEA

At Lift-Rite we use FEA to ensure all our products perform in real work situations.  We break the FEA process into:

Model creation: With an initial product supplied, we draw a digital model of the structure. For Lift-Rite products, this includes anything from a pallet jack to a lifting mechanism.

Mesh generation: The model is cut up into a large number of small, finite elements. This step is critical to the accuracy of the analysis: the more elements used, the finer the mesh, and usually, the more accurate the results.

Applying loads and boundary conditions: the conditions of the real world, such as forces, pressure, temperature, or vibration are applied to the model. The FEA software predicts how those will affect each element.

Resolving solutions: The applied forces are resolved for each element, assessing the levels of stress at each point and reporting levels of material utilisation.

Results Interpretation: After the FEA solver has completed the analysis, the results are inspected. Engineers check the locations of high stress, deformation, heat transfer or other factors that could compromise the integrity and performance of the structure.

How FEA Benefits Lift-Rite’s Product Development

Prediction of Performance under Stress: Using FEA, we can predict how a material will perform under specific loading or working conditions. This allows us to know with confidence that our products will resist applied loads and remain constantly dependable in the most extreme conditions.

Design Optimisation: FEA can quickly identify areas of high stress or weakness within a model that our engineers can then refine, saving time and material costs by optimising the structure to be stronger or lighter or redesigned where necessary.

Safety Assurance: Safety is paramount at Lift-Rite. FEA allows us to test our equipment in the most extreme conditions, giving us the reassurance the product will not fail when used in the real world. Whether it’s a hot environment or a low temperature, consistent high pressure or operation with heavy loads, we know FEA gives our products the assurance our customers demand.

Cost efficiency: Physical prototypes are eliminated since there are so many different design scenarios that can be virtually assessed in a short amount of time. This saves materials, reduces development costs and helps to quickly cut down on the turnaround time of production.

Real-World Applications of FEA at Lift-Rite

We use FEA at all stages of product development. For example, when we develop a new lifting beam, we can use FEA to analyse the way the beam will react to the dynamic forces present when the beam is used to lift and suspend loads over a long period of time, in order to ensure that the structural integrity will be preserved every time the beam is used.

Likewise, with FEA, companies can determine the suitability of a custom lifting solution for a particular scenario. The solution might be something as straightforward as adapting a standard design, or it might be a completely new design, but in either case FEA will provide information about how slight changes in design detail will affect the product’s performance or lifespan.

Conclusion

FEA is a must-use tool in modern engineering, and at Lift-Rite we use FEA to improve the function, safety and efficiency of the material handling products we ship daily. By seeing and predicting how real-world forces and conditions affect our equipment, we’re able to get innovative, usable products to market quicker without sacrificing the stringent requirements of our customers.

Utilising FEA, as part of our ongoing product development process, Lift-Rite continues to remain at the cutting edge of modern technology, ensuring our products continually deliver on cost effectiveness and performance in some of the most demanding environments.

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