Manual Chain Hoists: Essential Equipment for Multiple Industries

Manual chain hoists have become indispensable components in warehouses, workshops, construction sites, and automotive transport services. These devices are designed to lift loads to higher elevations and are essential for many heavy-duty operations, significantly simplifying the lifting process and optimizing workflows. They are used to move small loads as well as heavy household appliances, goods in warehouses, parts, and components.

Technical Features of Manual Chain Hoists

Some models of manual chain hoists can lift loads weighing up to 50 tons to heights ranging from 3 to 18 meters. Their main advantages include mobility and autonomy.

Key advantages of manual chain hoists include:

• Mobility: Hoists can easily be moved from one object to another.
• Low energy consumption and service costs.
• Autonomy: They can operate under any conditions without the need for a power connection.
• Cost-effectiveness and long service life.

Design and Working Principle of Manual Chain Hoists

Manual chain hoists are essentially block and tackle systems, consisting of interconnected blocks with a gearbox and drive. The gearbox is driven by a chain transmission, greatly multiplying the applied force. They feature a disc brake, an additional brake, and blocks and steel hooks for securing the load.

Design Features of  Manual Chain Hoists

Chain hoists are more productive than lever hoists, with a load capacity of up to 50 tons and a lifting height of up to 18 meters. These simple and convenient mechanical devices are used in warehouses, garages, construction, and production facilities.

A manual chain hoist system consists of two chains: a load chain with hooks for securing the load and a drive chain operated by the user. The control is performed using a transmission chain passing through gears, significantly increasing the force and transferring it to the load chain.

Typically, gear hoists are permanently installed, requiring some time for setup. Therefore, they are most commonly used in production facilities, workshops, and service departments. When pre-installed on a monorail and used with special mechanisms like trolleys for the hoist, goods can be moved vertically and horizontally.

Safety in Hoist Operations

Manual chain hoists are designed to carry heavy and bulky loads, necessitating special caution and precise implementation of safety precautions to mitigate injury risks and equipment failure. Some key safety tips include:

• Check the chain condition before starting work. Do not use if the chain links are damaged or severely worn.
• Do not use the hoist to lift or move people.
• Do not use multiple hoists to lift a single load simultaneously.
• Avoid standing or walking under a lifted load.
• Do not use hoists with removed chains to carry loads.
• Do not leave loads suspended for long periods.
• Operators should lift loads smoothly without sudden movements.
• Ensure the load weight does not exceed the maximum allowable weight specified in the technical passport.
• Securely fix the load before lifting or moving.

Choosing the Right Manual Chain Hoist

Selecting a specific model of manual chain hoist involves considering several important parameters:

• Load capacity.
• Lifting height.
• Hoist weight.

For example, models with a load capacity of up to 2 tons are sufficient for garage use, while in construction and industry, a load capacity of about 8 to 10 tons may be needed. The lifting height depends on the chain length, which is also important. When installing, consider the hoist's weight and choose beams that can withstand the total weight of the equipment and load.

Gear hoists are better suited for lifting loads to greater heights, whereas lever hoists are more suitable for low-height work. For high-frequency use, it may be beneficial to consider purchasing an electric hoist.

Applications of Manual Chain Hoists

Manual hoists are convenient because they can be used almost anywhere, indoors or outdoors, without requiring a power connection. This versatility explains their usage across various industries:

• Construction: During construction and installation work.
• Automotive repair workshops: For lifting and securing heavy parts and mechanisms.
• Industrial workshops: For installation or dismantling of equipment, and on production lines.
• Trade: Servicing warehouses and wholesale centers.
• Railways: During loading and unloading operations.
• As part of special equipment: Such as suspension equipment (drilling rigs, cranes, etc.).

Extending the Lifespan of Manual Chain Hoists

The body and main mechanisms of manual hoists are made of structural steel. Corrosion, the main enemy of any metal, affects most mechanisms and parts, especially under adverse climatic conditions.

To extend the lifespan of lifting equipment and machinery, timely measures are crucial. Typically, parts are protected against corrosion when the hoist is purchased, as used in industrial applications. However, during operation, the casing may get scratched, dented, or damaged. Therefore, it's essential to promptly eliminate defects using specialized tools familiar to any mechanic or equipment owner.