What Is a Chain Hoist?
A chain hoist is a mechanical device that helps lift and lower heavy loads. They are commonly used in warehousing and construction.
When the hand chain is pulled, it rotates the main cog which in turn turns a drive shaft and gears that revolve the load chain sprocket. Larger gears move slower than smaller ones, which multiplies the force being applied to the sprockets.
Multiplication of Force
A chain hoist is one of the most effective tools used to lift heavy loads on a ship. It uses multiple larger and smaller gears inside the mechanism to multiply the mechanical force of the pull chain hoist by at least a dozen times. This allows it to lift heavier loads than would be possible with manual lifting.
The motor on a chain hoist converts electrical energy into the mechanical power required to rotate the sprocket and chain system. It works by passing electrical current through different sets of electromagnets on the armature. These magnets have alternating poles which create a magnetic field that rotates the sprocket and chain system as electrical power passes through them.
Once the sprocket and chain system is engaged, it can be powered by an electric motor to move forward, backward, and side-to-side. It can also be raised and lowered using the hand chain.
The safety features on a chain hoist can help prevent accidents by ensuring that the load is secure and not able to fall or swing uncontrollably. For example, many models feature a brake system that locks the chain in place. This ensures that if there is an issue with the motor, it will shut off rather than risk damage to the equipment or people working on the load. This feature can make the difference between a successful project and a disaster.
Redistribution of Force
When a chain hoist is used, the pulling force from the hand chain is redistributed to the load chain. This allows a small amount of pull on the hand chain to create high efficiency lifting power on the load chain. This can greatly reduce the strain on the hand chain and make it easier to lift heavy objects.
It’s important to understand how a chain hoist works in order to use it effectively. A hoist’s rated capacity is the maximum weight it can lift at its peak performance. It’s also important to consider the weight of attachments like slings and spreader beams when determining how much load to place on a hoist.
A chain hoist uses a series of large and small pulleys to create a mechanical advantage for lifting. The large chain wheel turns a smaller chain wheel, which in turn, turns another larger wheel to lift the load. This means there are a lot of moving parts that can wear down and cause issues with the hoist if not properly maintained.
There are different types of hoists available for many applications. For instance, a manual chain hoist is ideal for construction and industrial environments where it’s common to lift heavy materials. Similarly, a lever chain hoist can be used in auto repair shops to lift motorcycle engines and other car parts.
Safety
Routine maintenance is important for any workplace equipment, but it’s particularly critical for a piece of hardware as essential and dangerous as a crane chain hoist. The chain hoist must be inspected thoroughly before each shift to ensure it’s working efficiently and that there are no safety issues. This routine maintenance can help avoid costly repairs and even dangerous accidents.
In addition to ensuring that the hoist is in good condition, it’s important that the work area surrounding the hoist is clear and free of any obstructions. A hoist with a rusty or dirty chain can become stiff and difficult to operate, so it’s a good idea to dismantle the entire hoist and clean it and lubricate it at least twice a year.
Before each use, check that the hoist is fully reeved and that all of the warning and safety labels are present and legible. If there’s an oil leak, it must be repaired immediately before using the hoist again. Finally, the hoist must be test-run without a load to make sure it’s free of any unusual sounds.
If the hoist is tied to a trolley, care must be taken to avoid crashing it into the end stops on the beam. This puts extra strain on the hoist and can cause uncontrolled load swings that could hurt anyone standing below them. Columbus McKinnon’s Magnetek LaserGuard Mini collision avoidance system can prevent this by programming a no-fly zone into the hoist’s control systems.
Installation
For chain hoists to be safe and effective, proper chain hoist installation is vital. In addition to ensuring that the equipment is properly sized and rated for its application, it must also be securely attached to prevent damage or tripping hazards. Electrical cables should be properly insulated and routed through the host structure to prevent tangling or damage, and it is essential that they be installed in a manner that will comply with all applicable safety standards.
A full load test should be conducted to evaluate the hoist’s stability and functionality. Admalite encourages its customers to prioritize this step to gain confidence in the equipment’s ability to handle expected loads and minimize any potential risks to personnel or property.
Another important consideration during the chain hoist installation process is the ambient environmental conditions in which it will operate. Excessive temperatures can accelerate wear and negatively impact the hoist’s load-bearing capacity, while freezing temperatures may affect lubrication and other mechanical components. Humidity is another critical factor to consider, as high levels of moisture can cause corrosion in chains, hooks, and other metallic components.
In addition to conducting a full load test, adhering to all safety norms and standards, and providing operator training, it is critical that workers follow proper operation and rigging procedures when using a chain hoist. This will help ensure that the equipment operates correctly, safely, and efficiently throughout its lifetime.
