Anyone in the lifting industry will know that there are different types of hoists, and that the right one needs to be used in each scenario to perform a lift safely and efficiently. Electric chain hoists are a middle of the road option, able to lift much heavier loads than a manual hoist but not designed for such heavy duty lifting as an electric wire rope hoist. For intermediate lifting, a chain hoist is going to be the most cost effective and efficient option, as long as all criteria is met in relation to the lifting weight capacity and any other aspects of safety.
Electric chain hoists are ideal for lifting and suspending loads in a huge range of environments and industries, including shipping, construction, off shore applications, and many more. There are many considerations when buying a chain hoist beyond just the load capacity (though this is of course essential). A good supplier will be able to guide you through the process and will take note of everything, from the application, to your exact industry and environment, to any other lifting equipment you have on site at the time.
What to consider when specifying an electric chain hoist: there’s more to think about than capacity alone
Don’t fall into the trap of thinking it’s simple to specify a chain hoist and that there are not many differences between models. There are various different ways of specifying a host and a number of factors that will need to be considered, including:
- Maximum lifting capacity
- Correct voltage
- Duty cycle
- Beam size
- Lifting height
- The speed of the motor that is needed
If you are unsure it is always best to check; take note of any factors that might not be in your specification yet so you can question your supplier on this.
Some important considerations before specifying a chain hoist
An electric chain hoist supplier can help with product specification but they will need some details from you. These include:
- Required height – to work this out, you need to measure the distance between the hoist and the level of the load.
- Safe working load – have details available of the safe working load you will need your hoist to be able to achieve.
- Required voltage – there are various options; 110v, 30v, 400v, 50Hz and 60Hz, as well as three phase and single phase. If you don’t know, a supplier can advise.
- Beam flange width – important information for getting the correct trolley
- Application and where the hoist will be used – primarily indoor or outdoor
- The amount the hoist will be used – details will be needed on how many lifts are performed each day on average, and how long cranes and hoists will be in operation.
There are also various suspension types with an electric chain hoist, including hook, lug, push travel trolley, geared trolley and electric travel trolley. The option you choose will depend on the lifts you will be carrying out and how the hoist will be used on a day to day basis.