The Benefits of Using a Chain Hoist
When it comes to manual lifting solutions, a chain hoist is an efficient option. This tool, also known as a lever chain hoist or chain block, lifts heavy loads through pulling one chain.
Its simple design eliminates the need for complicated motors or wires that increase electricity bills. It’s ideal for low vertical lifting and can be found in construction sites, auto shops, and private garages.
Lifting Capacity
The lifting capacity of a chain hoist depends on several factors, including the gear system, hook, and load chain. The higher quality of these elements, the greater the hoist’s lifting capability.
The load weight also affects the hoist’s lift capacity. A common mistake made by many buyers is selecting a hoist that does not match the load they plan on lifting. To avoid this, select the highest lifting capacity that will safely handle your load.
Another factor that determines the hoist’s lift capacity is the amount of hoist travel necessary to raise and lower the load. This number is measured in ft. Standard hoists typically come with 8, 10, or 20 ft. lifts, but if you require a longer travel length, there are plenty of options in our store.
The next factor to consider is the size of your facility’s beam and flange height. This is important to ensure that the hoist can be installed in a spot on the beam where it will not rub or scuff the surface. In addition, if the hoist is to be used outdoors, make sure the gearing has a high corrosion resistance rating. Also, if the hoist will be used in dusty or chemical-aggressive environments, consider a model with an enclosed gearing to protect it from contamination.
Weight Capacity
Hoists use leverage to reduce the effort needed to lift heavy loads. The load is lifted by a chain that wraps around multiple pulleys to provide what is known as mechanical advantage. The advantage of this system is that the load moves a much greater distance than the effort required to move it, but there are limits on how much weight the hoist can lift.
The amount of weight the hoist can lift is measured in its working load limit (WLL), which is determined by how much force it can apply to the chain and load. It is chain hoist important to not exceed the rated capacity of the hoist, as doing so could result in equipment failure and serious injury.
Manual chain hoists are simple and easy to operate and maintain, as they don’t have complex motors or electric wires. They’re often used in construction sites, manufacturing plants, and automotive repair shops for lifting and moving heavy materials. They’re also popular in warehouses for loading and unloading crates and pallets.
Air hoists are more complex but offer high durability and reliability, even under harsh conditions. They’re typically designed for the type of material you’re lifting, and they feature a number of safety features to prevent accidents and injuries. They include differential pressure load limiting valves and non-asbestos disc brakes that keep the load in place when the power is cut off.
Safety
It is critical that all employees using a hoist understand the rules of safe operation and follow the directions given to them. A hoist that is abused by a careless employee can become a deadly workplace hazard.
Training should include an explanation of how to inspect the equipment and the importance of reporting maintenance issues before they can cause injury or damage. This includes checking for a faulty load limit switch, the presence of a safety brake and a thermal protector on the motor, and the correct use of the friction clutch and upper and lower load chain limiting devices.
Frequent inspections should be done before each shift begins to chain hoist ensure the hoist is in good working order. The inspection should also include checking the slinging and rigging procedures used on each lift, making sure the rated capacity of the block and the chain/wire rope is clearly labeled and that the hook latches are in place and functioning properly. In addition, the operator should be able to identify what each button on the pendant does. A simple checklist that can be laminated and zip tied to the pendant should help with this test.
Employees should never work directly underneath a suspended load or allow others to do so. Likewise, they should not stand anywhere that will be in the path of a moving hoist.
Maintenance
One of the most important things that can be done to extend the life of a hoist is regular maintenance procedures. These must be carried out by qualified personnel. Before performing any maintenance, the hoist must be disconnected from any load and power source. It must also be locked and tagged out. Using a hoist without proper maintenance can lead to serious damage.
Regular examinations should be performed to ensure the chain is free of rust and debris. It should be cleaned and lubricated. Usually, this is done by dismantling the hoist and cleaning each component individually. The gears should be kept sand and grit free as well. Depending on how often the hoist is used, this process should be done once or twice a year.
The brake is another important part of the hoist. It should be inspected to make sure it is functioning properly and that its brake discs are not worn out. The brake spring should also be checked for strength and deformation. Inspecting the brake regularly will help prevent accidents that could be caused by a failure to perform a safety check.
When inspecting and maintaining a hoist, it is vital to remember that the only safe way to use it is to read the owner’s manual and follow all the safety instructions. This is not only essential for your own safety but also the safety of everyone near the area where you are working.