Caldwell Beam Clamp Locking Type

Beam Clamp Locking Type – Multi-Purpose Lifting & Suspension for Structural Beams

The Renfroe Model BC is a locking-type beam clamp engineered for both lifting beams and suspending hoists from beams or girders. Rated at 1.5 vertical tons at 0°–20°, it is designed specifically for use on American standard and wide-flange beams with flange widths from 3 in. to 7.25 in. and flange thicknesses from 0.25 in. to 0.5 in. This clamp is well-suited for contractors and rigging professionals who need a reliable, hardware-free attachment point on structural steel.

Unlike fixed-point rigging methods that require nuts, bolts, and separate shackles, the Model BC provides a self-contained locking attachment that simplifies setup and reduces the number of components required on the job site. Its locking mechanism must be engaged before any lift, providing a positive means of securing the clamp to the beam flange prior to loading.

Key Features & Benefits

Locking Clamp Design

The Model BC uses a positive locking mechanism that must be engaged prior to lifting, ensuring the clamp cannot inadvertently release during a lift. This locking feature is a critical safety requirement — contractors must confirm the clamp is locked before any load is applied.

Eliminates Nuts, Bolts, and Shackles

The Model BC is designed to attach directly to a beam flange without requiring additional hardware such as nuts, bolts, or separate shackles. This reduces rigging time and the number of loose components a crew needs to manage on site.

Dual-Purpose: Lifting and Suspension

The clamp is suitable for two distinct applications — lifting beams as part of a rigging operation, and suspending hoists or other equipment from beams or girders. This versatility allows a single clamp model to serve multiple roles across a project.

Wide Flange Compatibility Range

With an adjustable range covering flange widths from 3 in. to 7.25 in. and thicknesses from 0.25 in. to 0.5 in., the Model BC accommodates a broad variety of American standard and wide-flange beam sizes commonly found on commercial and industrial job sites.

Common Applications

Beam Lifting

The Model BC attaches directly to the flange of a structural beam, allowing the beam to be lifted and positioned during steel erection or structural framing operations.

Hoist Suspension from Beams or Girders

The clamp can be used to suspend hoists from an existing beam or girder, providing a temporary overhead lifting point without the need to drill, bolt, or otherwise modify the structure.

Temporary Overhead Rigging Points

Where a permanent lifting lug or anchor is not present, the Model BC provides a quick-attach rigging point on structural steel for use with compatible rigging equipment.

Compatible Materials

• American standard steel beams
• Wide-flange steel beams
• Steel girders (for suspension applications)

Product Documents

• Download Catalog
• Download Manual
• Renfroe Repair Kits Catalog

Application Instructions

Before Use

1. Read and understand the Operator's Manual (OM 211-BC) before putting the clamp into service.
2. Inspect the clamp before each lift per the pre-lift inspection procedures outlined in the Operator's Manual.
3. Confirm the clamp is the correct model and capacity for the intended load. Do not use large-capacity clamps to lift light loads, and do not exceed rated capacity.
4. Do not alter, grind, weld, or modify the clamp in any manner.

Attachment

1. Position the clamp jaws onto the beam flange, ensuring the flange width and thickness fall within the clamp's rated range (3–7.25 in. width; 0.25–0.5 in. thickness).
2. Engage and lock the clamp closed before applying any load. Do not lift with the lock in the open or "Lock Open" position.
3. Use a flexible connection between the crane and the clamp shackle. Do not attach the clamp directly to a crane hook, and do not use a heavy flexible connection.

During the Lift

1. Do not lift over workers, safety areas, or personnel.
2. Use an adequate number of clamps to balance the load. Do not lift unbalanced loads.
3. Use clamps only within their rated capacity. Do not overload.
4. Do not use a clamp that has previously been overloaded.

Technical Specifications

Safety Data Summary

Safe Handling

• Lock the clamp closed before every lift. Never lift with the lock in the open position.
• Do not attach the clamp directly to a crane hook — always use a flexible connection between the crane and the clamp shackle.
• Do not lift over workers, safety areas, or personnel at any time.
• Do not overload the clamp beyond its rated Working Load Limit of 1.5 tons at 0°–20°.
• Do not use a clamp that has been overloaded — refer to pre-lift inspection procedures in the Operator's Manual.
• Do not alter, grind, weld, or modify the clamp in any manner.
• Always use the correct clamp for the job; do not improvise or substitute an incorrect model.
• Inspect the clamp before each lift following the inspection and maintenance instructions in the Operator's Manual.
• Use only Renfroe replacement parts to ensure proper clamp operation.
• Before putting the tool into service, bring it to your immediate supervisor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the Model BC be used for both lifting beams and suspending hoists?
A: Yes. The Model BC is specifically designed as a multi-purpose clamp suitable for both lifting beams and providing suspension of hoists from beams or girders.

Q: What beam types is the Model BC compatible with?
A: The Model BC is intended for use on American standard and wide-flange steel beams with flange widths between 3 in. and 7.25 in. and flange thicknesses between 0.25 in. and 0.5 in.

Q: Does the Model BC require additional hardware such as nuts, bolts, or shackles for attachment?
A: No. The Model BC is designed to eliminate the need for nuts, bolts, and shackles when attaching to a beam flange.

Q: Can the clamp be attached directly to a crane hook?
A: No. Per operating instructions, a flexible connection must be used between the crane and the clamp shackle. The clamp should not be attached directly to a crane hook, and the connection should not be a heavy flexible connection.

Q: Is an operator's manual available for this product?
A: Yes. The Application, Operation and Maintenance Manual (OM 211-BC) is available for download above. All operators should read and understand the manual before using the clamp.