Caldwell Dura-Mod Spreader Beam Proves Versatility

Arrow Construction Companies is using a 24-ton capacity Dura-Mod 24 modular spreader beam manufactured by The Caldwell Group Inc. to solve a variety of below-the-hook challenges. The versatile product and supporting rigging components were delivered by Caldwell distributor, Superior Lifting Specialists Inc.

Each Dura-Mod system consists of a pair of end fittings and drop links, and two upper and lower shackles to make the ideal configuration. Top sling assemblies (synthetic roundslings, for example) can then be incorporated as part of the complete lifting arrangement.

This spreader beam can be used in spans of 3 feet to 24 feet; the capacity varies based on sling angle and chosen spread. The company also took delivery of two 1.5 foot-long DM24-EFs, which are the fittings where the spreader comes to an end and the user connects two DM-DL drop links for rigging. Additionally, two 6 foot spreader sections will allow for 12 feet of spread, and a further two 1 foot spreader sections will allow for 1 foot of spread each.

Arrow Construction Companies is using a 24-ton capacity Dura-Mod 24 modular spreader beam manufactured by The Caldwell Group Inc.

By combining intermediate spreader sections with the appropriate end fittings, drop links and rigging hardware, Superior Lifting was able to provide a beam that can be adjusted to the required configuration, allowing the end user to get what they need without waiting for a complete beam to be ordered and delivered.

Mike Wegener, president at Arrow, said: “I like the ease of transport. The DM24 is really nice to put together with just one guy last minute. No special forklift handling or extra guys needed to put it together. It’s small and fits in the back of a six-foot. truck. They’re interchangeable and I like the versatility for picks.”

Ryan Moen, regional sales manager at Caldwell, said: “As the manufacturer, Dura-Mod gives us the flexibility to adapt to changing lift plans. A traditional adjustable spreader beam is great, but it has its limitations. Today’s lift may call for a 6-foot spread, while tomorrow’s requires 20 feet at a different capacity. With traditional spreader beams, that often means additional lift-specific equipment, upfront capital, longer lead times, valuable floor space, and the hassle of transporting it all. With Dura-Mod, your initial investment provides the foundation for future flexibility. Add a few components, and you’re ready for the next lift. Need to change it up yet again the following day? No problem.”

Salvatore Proite, president at Superior Lifting Specialists, said: “We’ve always had great confidence in Caldwell’s products, and Dura-Mod is a perfect example of why. Its versatility, ease of transportation, and simple assembly make it a great solution for customers like Arrow Construction. Rather than investing in multiple spreader beams, they have one system that can adapt to a variety of lifting applications. The Dura-Mod system is one of many reasons Caldwell is an industry leader.”

The Dura-Mod 24 modular spreader beam can be used in spans of 3 feet to 24 feet.

Since its launch around seven years ago, Dura-Mod has evolved in response to growing demand for quickly available components. A significant proportion of requests for quotations (RFQs) involve relatively short lead times, meaning the ability to react quickly can be critical to securing the order. This has driven an expansion of inventory to ensure the required components can be shipped without delay, while the modular concept also provides advantages in transport and storage. Components shorter than 14 feet can be palletized with other components to allow a more condensed footprint for shipping, and the relatively compact nature of the system reduces the space required for inventory. Many of the shorter components are stored vertically to further maximize available storage capacity.