Hydraulic flippers are used to turn, reposition, and transfer steel beams, box columns, and other welded workpieces during fabrication. These steel beam rotators are usually used after one side has been welded, so the workpiece can be rotated safely for welding or processing on the next side.

Workpieces are first lifted off the roller conveyor or support stand, and two flipper units then move together to place it in position for turning. Four hydraulic cylinders drive four turning arms that rotate together in an L-shaped motion, turning the workpiece and placing it back in the proper position for the next step. For 180° rotation, the turning cycle is completed through two 90° flips. Once the turning process is complete, the workpiece is placed back onto the roller conveyor or support stand so it can be transferred to the next welding or fabrication operation.