Welding and Metalworking - question on "I" beam

I want to use an I beam for overhead lifting. I'll be picking up around 600lb.

The lift will be 8' high, and the I beam will be supported at 6' width, so it will be 8' long.

What I want to do is thrown a short chain over it, in the middle, and hook a chain hoist to it.

What I need is the language to use to identify the smallest I beam I'll want to buy from the iron and steel people. What do I ask for?

The steel suppliers will probably be able to quickly answer your question. Might be quicker than waiting around here for an answer. Just a suggestion.

Good point! Obiviously, this is something I haven't done before...

You will want to ask for a Wide Flange W shape Beam.This will stop all deflection to the sides. as far as the size goes you can ask the steel supplier what he would recomend, after all, you are only going to be lifting around 800 lbs. better go with something that can support the weight without much deflection in the middle. The top and bottom of the beam is called the Flange. The inside is called the Web. You can proably go with a 4*4*1/2" Beam and still have plenty of beef left over, but check with them on that.

( Courtesy Scott Steel Inc. )Beer 4U2

Thanks for the help. It's appreciated.