Hoists
Improve workflow efficiency and prevent employee injuries with a hoist system.
Hoists – safe and controlled vertical movement for heavy and irregularly shaped objects
Now that you’ve chosen a crane system for your facility (the horizontal means for moving your heavy load), you may also need to select a hoist – a device that works in tandem with your crane and safely and efficiently provides vertical movement of heavy objects.
A hoist is a device used to lift or move material. The lifting force is provided by a drum (or wheel) on which wraps a rope (wire or fiber) or a chain. There are six main types of hoists:
- Manual Chain Hoists
- Electric Chain Hoists
- Electric Wire Rope Hoists
- Air Powered Hoists
- Manipulators and Balancers for Hoists
- Battery-Powered Hoist
Manual Chain Hoists:
A manual chain hoist is a hand-operated device used to lift and lower heavy loads from ¼ – 50 tons. It consists of a chain, pulley system, and a gear mechanism housed in a durable casing. Unlike powered hoists, it relies on human effort to operate.
Key features of a manual chain hoist include:
- Hand Chain and Load Chain – a hand chain is a smaller chain loop pulled by hand to activate the hoist. A load chain is a heavier chain that carries the weight of the load.
- Hook Attachments – equipped with hooks for attaching the hoist to a support structure (like a beam or trolley) and securing the load.
- Gear Mechanisms – uses gears to amplify the pulling force, making it easier to lift heavy loads.
Benefits include:
- Cost Effective – affordable and simple to maintain compared to powered options.
- Portable – lightweight and easy to transport, making it ideal for on-the-go applications.
- No Power Source Needed – operates independent of electricity or air supply, suitable for remote or outdoor applications.
- Reliable for Small-Scale Lifting
Electric Chain Hoists:
An electric chain hoist is a powered lifting device used to raise, lower, and position heavy loads with precision – generally ¼ – 3 tons with a max capacity of 20 tons. It operates using an electric motor, making it faster, more efficient, and easier to use than manual hoists. The lifting mechanism typically involves a chain and a motor-driven gear system. Electric chain hoists are great for heavy usage and rough environments. The electric chain hoist can be used in clean assembly applications including pharmaceutical and food processing. It has a long-lift application, which allows for work with windmill generators.
Key features of an electric chain hoist include:
- Electric Motor – provides the power to lift heavy loads with minimal human effort.
- Load Chain – a durable chain designed to carry the weight of the load.
- Control Pendant or Remote – allows operators to control lifting and lowering with precision.
- Hooks – features hooks to attach the hoist to a support structure (like a crane or beam) and secure the load.
- Safety Features – overload protection to prevent excessive strain; emergency stop for immediate halting in unsafe situations; thermal protection to avoid motor overheating.
Benefits include:
- Efficiency – speeds up lifting tasks compared to manual hoists.
- Ease of use – requires minimal effort to operate, improving productivity.
- Precision – offers controlled lifting and lowering for exact load placement.
Electric Wire Rope Hoists:
An electric wire rope hoist is a powered lifting device designed for handling heavy loads using a steel wire rope instead of a chain. It is operated by an electric motor and is generally a more robust hoist built for a specific application, like magnet duty, foundry duty, molten metal pouring, and other high-use and fast-moving applications. It provides an explosion-proof atmosphere, low headroom, and can be used for food grade applications. These hoists are known for their durability, high lifting capacities, and smooth operation. The wire rope reduces load sway, ensuring stable lifting. They are ideal for applications where speed, stability, and long-term reliability are essential and are the go-to solution for industries that require heavy-duty lifting and high efficiency.
Key features of an electric wire rope hoist include:
- Wire Rope – a strong, flexible cable made of intertwined steel wires that handles the load.
- Electric Motor – powers the lifting mechanism for efficient operation.
- Drum – the wire rope is wound around a drum, enabling controlled lifting and lowering.
- Control Pendant or Remote – allows precise operation of lifting and lowering functions.
- Hooks or Lifting Attachments – secures the hoist to the load and the support structure.
- Safety Features – overload protection to prevent lifting beyond capacity; limit switches to stop the hoist at maximum and minimum points; emergency stop for enhanced safety.
Benefits include:
- High lifting capacity – ideal for handling heavier loads than chain hoists.
- Durable and long-lasting – built for rugged industrial environments.
- Smooth operation – wire rope reduces load sway and ensures stable lifting.
- Fast lifting speeds – enables quicker load handling, improving productivity.
Air-Powered Hoists:
An air-powered hoist, also known as a pneumatic hoist, is a lifting device that uses compressed air instead of electricity or manual effort to lift and lower heavy loads. These hoists are often preferred in environments where electrical sparks could pose a hazard or where compressed air is readily available. Air hoists are great for high-speed applications where frequent starts and stops are a factor. It has unbeatable load-spotting control and can be used in highly repetitive applications. If air is readily available for use, these hoists are easily moveable within the plant. It has a high lifting capacity and can continuously work with the maximum load without overheating. The air powered hoist provides an explosion proof work environment and has low headroom. If it is kept clean and sterile, it is perfect for use with food grade applications including pharmaceutical and food/beverage processing.
Key features of an air-powered hoist include:
- Compressed Air Operation – uses pressured air for power, eliminating the need for electricity.
- Chain or Wire Rope – equipped with either a chain or wire rope to handle the load.
- Precision Controls – allows smooth, precise load handling via a pendant or remote control.
- Durability – designed for tough environments with minimal risk of overheating.
- Safety Features – spark-free operation makes it ideal for hazardous environments; overload protection to prevent lifting beyond capacity.
Benefits include:
- Safe in hazardous environments – ideal for areas with flammable gases, dust, sparks, or other explosion risks.
- Food grade – clean chain hoist systems are available for a variety of applications including wash down, pharmaceutical, food/beverage processing, and clean assembly applications.
- Continuous duty cycle – can operate without overheating, making them suitable for long shifts.
- Variable speed control – allows for precise movement and positioning of loads.
- Low headroom – designed to optimize lifting heights when standard equipment does not meet the application needs.
- Durability – resistant to harsh conditions like extreme temperatures, moisture, and dust.
Manipulators and Balancers for Hoists:
A simple, cost-effective alternative to back-breaking manual lifting, manipulators and balancers for hoists are used in conjunction with jibs and workstation cranes to efficiently handle all types of tools and parts at high speeds. With features such as load float, you can slowly and precisely place parts into position.
Manipulators and balancers are the most economical, safe alternative to manual heavy lifting. By using air and spring mechanics, tools and other objects are manipulated at the operator’s pace. They are ideal for high paced, repetitive tasks that require fine control and ergonomic support.
Manipulators focus on precise positioning and multi-directional control – ideal for handling unique or delicate loads. Balancers provide weightless lifting to reduce strain and enhance speed – ideal for repetitive or general lifting tasks. They rely entirely on the operator for movement and positioning.
Key features of Manipulators include:
- Customizable Grips – can be equipped with clamps, vacuum cups, or magnetic grips for handling specific items.
- Enhanced Precision – allows for fine-tuned placement of loads, even in tight or awkward spaces.
- Multi-Axis Movement – provides flexibility to rotate, tilt, or maneuver loads in multiple directions.
- Operator Assistance – reduces physical effort and fatigue by transferring the load’s weight to the manipulator.
Key features of Balancers include:
- Weightless Handling – adjusts to the load’s weight, giving the operator a sense of weightlessness.
- Quick Lifting and Lowering – smooth, controlled vertical movement for efficient handling.
- Operator-Friendly Design – easy to operate, reducing strain and improving productivity.
- Compact and Versatile – can be used with overhead cranes, workstation cranes, and jib cranes.
Battery-Powered Hoist:
Battery-powered hoists are portable lifting devices that operate using rechargeable batteries rather than relying on direct electrical power, compressed air, or manual effort. These hoists are designed for mobility and flexibility. They provide the lifting strength and speed of an electric chain hoist paired with the cord-free operation and portability of a manual hoist. making them ideal for applications where power sources are limited or access to traditional energy sources is inconvenient.
Key features of Battery-Powered Hoists include:
- Portable Power – operates using rechargeable batteries, allowing for use in areas without power outlets.
- Mobility – lightweight and often compact, making them easy to transport and set up.
- Load Capacity – typically suited for light-to-medium duty applications.
- Cordless Operation – eliminates the need for trailing cables, reducing trip hazards and improving safety.
- Controls – equipped with pendant controls or wireless remotes for ease of operation.
Considerations when selecting a Battery-Powered Hoist:
- Battery Life – evaluate battery capacity and runtime to ensure it meets operational demands.
- Load Capacity – choose a hoist with sufficient lifting power for your specific task.
- Charging Time – ensure downtime for recharging fits within operational schedules.
- Durability – select models designed for specific environmental conditions, such out outdoor or corrosive environments.
- Cost – while convenient, battery-powered hoists may have higher upfront costs due to battery and portability features.
A hoist is a smart investment for businesses aiming to improve operations, ensure employee safety, and boost productivity. By automating or simplifying lifting tasks, hoists reduce physical strain, lower injury risks, and contribute to a more efficient and profitable workplace.
To help you select the right hoist for the application, we’ve put together this list of considerations. Check out this article on the dangers of overhead crane side pulling when selecting a hoist. Side pulling is not considered “normal operation” of the hoist and therefore may void the manufacturer’s warranty. Be sure to make these “side pulling” circumstances known when working with our experts to choose a hoist.
From design consultation to onsite project management and installation, W.W. Cannon can help design a hoist system that maximizes safety and optimizes employee productivity – and meets your budget needs and timeline. Did we mention that we have decades of experience navigating the permitting and code compliance process? Mismanagement of these issues can lead to project delays, emphasizing the importance of our expertise in handling them effectively. We also install and service everything we sell. Contact Us today and let one of our experts help you configure the right hoist system for your application – on time and within your budget.
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