CALDWELL
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about CALDWELL from 3G Electric.
What is the difference between a Caldwell fixed lifting beam and an adjustable-span gantry crane?
A Caldwell fixed lifting beam, such as the 19-1-10 with a 120-inch length and 2,000 lb working load limit, is a below-the-hook device that attaches to a crane hook and provides two or more fixed lifting points. It does not move on its own. A Caldwell adjustable-span gantry crane, such as the H90-3-16/10 with a 6,000 lb capacity and 16.8 ft span, is a free-standing structure that supports a hoist and can be moved under load. The gantry is used where an overhead crane is not available or where the load must be repositioned across a floor area. Selection depends on whether the lifting point is fixed or mobile.
How do I select the correct Caldwell pipe grab for a given pipe diameter and weight?
Caldwell pipe grabs are rated by working load limit and by maximum load diameter or headroom. For example, the S-14 handles up to a 14-inch load diameter at a 3,500 lb working load limit, while the C-3 is rated to 450 lb with 10 inches of maximum headroom. To select a model, confirm the pipe outside diameter, the pipe weight per lift, and the available headroom under the crane hook. The grab's bail height or headroom dimension must fit within the hook height, and the working load limit must exceed the load weight with an appropriate margin. 3G Electric lists these dimensions for each Caldwell pipe grab model.
What does 'working load limit' mean on Caldwell lifting equipment?
Working load limit (WLL) is the maximum mass that a Caldwell lifting device is rated to support in a specified configuration. For the 19-1-10 lifting beam, the WLL is 2,000 lb. For the H90-3-16/10 gantry crane, the load capacity is 6,000 lb. For the S-12 pipe grab, the WLL is 2,500 lb. The WLL is not a breaking strength; it is the rated capacity for normal use. Lifting devices should be inspected before each use, and the WLL should never be exceeded. The rating applies only when the device is used as intended and with the load properly engaged.
Are Caldwell gantry cranes adjustable in height or span?
The Caldwell H90-3-16/10 is a fixed-height gantry crane with an adjustable span. The span can be set to match the work area, and the crane is mobile under load with non-rotating legs. Height adjustment is not provided on this model; the height is fixed at the factory. Other Caldwell gantry models may offer different combinations of height and span adjustment. When specifying a gantry crane, confirm the required span, the height needed to clear the load and hoist, and the floor surface over which the crane will travel.
What information does 3G Electric need to quote a Caldwell lifting beam or pipe grab?
To quote a Caldwell lifting beam or pipe grab, 3G Electric needs the manufacturer part number if known, or the load weight, load dimensions (length, diameter, or width), required headroom or bail height, and the crane hook capacity. For lifting beams, the overall length and number of lifting points are also required. For gantry cranes, the span, height, and load capacity are needed. Providing these details allows 3G Electric to match the correct Caldwell model and confirm availability. 3G Electric sources Caldwell equipment globally and can provide export documentation for international shipments.
What is the maximum load diameter for Caldwell S-series pipe grabs?
The Caldwell S-14 pipe grab accommodates a maximum load diameter of 14 inches and has a working load limit of 3,500 lb. The S-12 has a 2,500 lb working load limit and a 3-inch bail height, but the maximum load diameter is not specified in the standard catalog data. The S-6 has a 1,000 lb working load limit and a 2 3/8-inch bail height. For pipe diameters above 14 inches, consult 3G Electric with the specific pipe size and weight to determine whether a larger Caldwell grab or a custom below-the-hook device is required.
