Beam manipulator helps keep welders safe while working on beams

SMS Inc. has developed the Rimco Rotator for keeping welders safe while working on beams.

It comprises a pair of clamshell wheels that mount and lock around the ends of a beam. The wheels sit in motorized rotator bases that can be fixed to the shop floor, mounted on rails, or left freestanding on casters.

Once the beam is locked in, the welder has total control; the beam can be turned in both directions and locks in place electrically at any angle as soon as the welder takes his hand off the button. The welding process is not dependent on crane availability.

The units come in various sizes and can accommodate almost any beam length and shape, including tapered welded beams, cambered beams, channels, rectangular and square tubes, and round tube (with optional clamping fixtures). Baseplates, gussets, cleats, and sections can be welded at any angle, and the beam can be turned as required.