Different Type of Hoists, Their Drawbacks and Advantages

A hoist is machine that is attached to cranes that are primarily required to perform only one function: lifting and lowering of loads on a vertical plane. They are attached to the horizontal beam of the crane and if they are connected to a trolley, they can move forwards and backwards along the beam. Chain hoists are used to lift weights of up to five tonnes, however, wire rope hoists are used to lift weights of over five tonnes.

Let us discuss the different type of hoists and what are the advantages and disadvantages of using them.

WIRE ROPES HOISTS

Wire rope hoists are ideal for applications where medium to heavy loads, that is, between five tonnes to 20 tonnes need to be moved. These hoists perform their tasks at a high speed. You can either choose am electric wire rope hoist or a manual or a pneumatic one. 

Advantages of wore rope hoists 

Suited for moving heavy loads

Wire rope hoists can lift heavy loads as compared to chain hoists. These hoists are made using multiple wires which allows it to distribute the weight. To get more information about products and prices from one of India’s leading wire rope hoists manufacturers, log on to www.venusengineers.com 

No safety issues

Since there are many wires used to make these hoists, it means that even if one of the wires breaks or snaps they will still be able to hold on to the load and lower it safely.  

High resistance 

Wire rope hoists are resistant to corrosion, rust and abrasion, thus less likely to get spoilt. You can even go for a galvanised hoist which will offer even greater protection. 

Disadvantages 

Require huge space 

Since they are made for lifting heavy loads they are also big units themselves. Thus, you plant or site should have enough space to install these hoists. HOT cranes suppliers will suggest wire rope hoists only if there is enough space available.  

Very expensive 

Wire rope hoists are a more expensive option than chain hoists.

CHAIN HOISTS 

A metal chain is used as lifting medium in chain hoists, that is, up to five tonnes. These hoists use a hook connected to a chain and are designed to lift the load vertically. Chain hoists can be operated manually, electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically. They are a popular choice as they are relatively low maintenance and cheaper than wire rope hoists. 

Following are the advantages of using chain hoists.  

Good value for money 

Even though the lifting capacity of the chain hoist is lower than the wire rope hoist, it turns out to be a much more economical option. However, it does allow you lift more weight than a manual hoist would.  

Very flexible 

Chain hoists can be easily transported between different sites thus making it a very flexible option. It is especially useful for construction industry as there is a need to move the hoist from one site to another.  

Easy to achieve vertical lift 

Since there is no room for lateral movement chain hoists can be used with a variety of lifting equipment like jib cranes and gantries.  

Easy to limit switches 

You can easily set the minimum and maximum path with the help of upper and lower limit switch. This protects the load from human error.

 

Disadvantages 

Limited lifting capacity 

One of the major disadvantages of a chain hoist is that it has a limited lifting capacity, usually under five tonnes. This makes it redundant for applications where heavy loads need to be move.

Also Read:- What Are Wire Rope Hoists and Their Functions?  

Can snap immediately 

One of the main drawbacks of chain hoist is that it is prone to snapping immediately. However, wire rope hoist disintegrates strand by strand. To be able to avoid a situation where the chain snaps without any notice, it is important that you do regular inspections.

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