In the lifting industry, there are three main types of hoists: manual hoists, electric chain hoists, and electric wire rope hoists. For many lifting processes, an electric chain hoist will be the best option because it is a strong, efficient piece of lifting equipment and it is good value for money too. There are many good suppliers of quality chain hoists from leading lifting equipment brands, so finding the right product to perform lifts safely and easily should be a relatively simple exercise.
As with any other lifting objects, electric chain hoists need to be carefully specified. They will need to be able to take the correct capacity, and will not be able to lift loads that are of an unusual shape or size unless properly and safely balanced. This is an important consideration, and will therefore be something that you need to think carefully about before investing in a particular type of hoist, or before performing a lift. Any time a lift is carried out, the hoist must be properly balanced and capacities will need to be very carefully checked.
What Capacities Can an Electric Chain Hoist Lift?
An electric chain hoist can usually lift loads up to tonnes in weight. They will be able to lift heavier loads than manual hoists, but usually electric wire rope hoists will have a higher lifting capacity. Electric chain hoists are the middle ground, and they are usually chosen when budget is important, but when higher capacities are needed. They are also easier to use than manual hoists because they are electric, so they make lifting processes more automated and make lifting quicker as well.
These capacities are only a guide and different chain hoists have different load capabilities. They should always be individually checked and should be carefully chosen depending on exactly what you need out of your hoists and lifting equipment. If they are going to be used on a site, it is important to take into consideration that they will require access to electricity.
Working to Specify an Electric Chain Hoist Accurately
All hoists will need to be carefully specified before purchase. Here are some of the factors to consider when specifying a hoist, especially for heavier and more cumbersome loads:
- Lift heights. This is an essential piece of the puzzle, as much so as capacity. Lift height will always need to be specified for a chain hoist.
- Supply voltage. You will need to have a hoist that is compatible.
- Beam flange width. If you need a beam trolley for horizontal travel requirements, then beam flange width is an important factor to note. Not everybody will need this.
- Motor. You will need to know how much the hoist will be used and the average number of lifts that will be completed. This will ensure it is supplied with the right motor.
- Speed. The hoisting and travelling speeds need to be taken into account and specified as well at the time of ordering. Different hoists will have different options available.