Lifting inserts are variously designed metal shapes set in plastic concrete to provide a method of lifting the concrete after it has hardened. Tilt-up panels are a good example of a type of construction in which provision must be made for lifting. Lifting is done, particularly in the prestressed concrete industry, by handling precast elements with embedded strand offcuts. The problem, though, is strand slices through concrete when subject to shear, so that it has limited use for handling thin panels. For thin shells made from normal 3,000-psi concrete containing nominal reinforcement are lifted whenever possible with inserts located in the face of the panels. If this is not possible, designers have at their disposal a range of slab edge products. Experience proves that in choosing lifting inserts there are several important factors to be considered. Cost is basic, but just as important are the effects of speed of handling and whether are not exposed metal must be burnt off.
