Why Choose a Hand Chain Hoist?

When you need to lift and lower heavy loads, a hand chain hoist can save you from the hassle of using bulky machinery. They are ideal for use in machine shops, automotive garages and many other workplace settings.

There are several considerations to be made when choosing the right hoist. These include initial cost, power source, duty cycle, lifting speed and operating environment.

Manually Powering

A manual chain hoist is a great solution for projects that require fleeting loads. These hoists do not need to be powered by electricity, and they are far less expensive than electric or hydraulic alternatives.

They are also very easy to maintain, making them a smart investment for your business. However, you will need to ensure that the model you purchase can comfortably lift the load you need. Look for a high-quality hoist that has been extensively tested to ensure it can operate safely at or above its rated capacity.

Many different industries use hand chain hoists to perform their operations. Some common examples include construction sites, automotive repair shops, and warehouses. Construction sites often employ these hoists to move heavy materials, such as steel beams or concrete blocks. Car repair shops use them to lift and transport engines or other heavy automobile parts. In addition, warehouses rely on them to move cargo, such as pallets or crates. They can be used to load and unload flatbed trucks, as well. Other uses include repairing HVAC units and reassembling appliances.

More Versatility

A hand chain hoist is a versatile tool that can be used in many different kinds of environments. It can move heavy materials in construction sites or load items into production lines. In automotive repair shops, it can position engines without damaging fragile components.

This simple yet powerful equipment consists of a central block housing two joined gears of differing sizes and a ratchet mechanism. Pulling the thinner handling chain across the larger gears forces movement of the heavier lifting chain on its teeth, while locking mechanisms prevent the lift chain from moving freely or accidentally disconnecting from the hoist. Pre-lubricated ball bearings and precision machined gears help reduce manual effort and offer trouble-free service.

The biggest come along hoist and manual chain hoist sellers hand chain hoist feature a fully enclosed mechanical Weston-style load brake that reacts to the inertia of descending loads to hold the chains. They use alloy steel lift chains designed to stretch before they break and forged steel hook latches to keep them from being pulled off of the shaft. These features make them ideal for high vertical lifts, especially in locations with limited headroom.

More Control

A hand chain hoist can be used in a variety of different lifting applications. It is ideal for delicate or precise lifting. It can also be used for positioning loads. For example, it could lift up a log just enough to allow a worker to work beneath it to position a hydraulic cart.

Like any piece of equipment, your chain hoist will need to be maintained to ensure it continues to function well. A basic maintenance practice is to inspect it and perform regular tests. This will help to identify any problems before they become serious.

For example, a chain block can suffer from damage, wear and tear or even failure if it is exposed to contaminants, physical damage, inadequate lubrication or if it is used incorrectly. It is important not to jog or bounce the hoist. Doing so generates heat and can cause the motor to overheat. It is also a good idea to keep the hoist stored out of the weather and away from high moisture areas. Ideally, the chain should be dismantled for cleaning and oiling twice a year.

Easier to Move Around

One of the most obvious benefits of choosing a hand chain hoist is that they are easy to move around. Especially when they are powered by air (compressed). This means that there is no electricity involved in their operations, which helps you to keep your energy bills as low as possible.

Another great benefit of choosing a chain hoist is that it is also very easy to train someone to use. After just a few tries and demonstrations, most people will be able to understand how to operate the equipment and lift loads with ease.

In comparison, it can be more difficult to train employees on how to properly use a wire hoist. This is because a wire system involves more parts and requires the worker to be directly underneath hand chain hoist the load in order to operate it. This is why it is more suited for bigger jobs with limited space. You can still find these types of hoists in car service shops, for example, when lifting cars engines is required. This would require a lot of workers and more manpower to complete without a chain hoist.

Less Disappointment

When compared to their powered counterparts, hand chain hoists are much less likely to break down. They have no motor to fail, so if you don’t misuse them they are going to last a long time.

Misusing a hoist by putting too much force on the hook or exceeding their working load limit is one of the most common mistakes users make. This can strain the hook, damage equipment or cargo, and cause worker downtime. It is also dangerous and may void your warranty.

Other misuses include making equipment alterations, which can be very dangerous for the user and the equipment. It is best to always use a hoist with caution and to never alter it or modify it in any way. Choosing the right hoist from the beginning can help your business in the long run, no matter the application. Harrington, CM, Chester, and Ross hand chain hoists are made with strong alloys and durable components to provide years of service. These nifty pieces of equipment can lift big things without the need for manual labour, which means you can get the job done faster.