Hoists are powerful lifting devices that are widely used in various industries, from construction to manufacturing. Whether you need to lift heavy loads or move materials from one place to another, choosing the right hoist for your needs is crucial.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the different types of hoists, their applications, advantages, and disadvantages, to help you make an informed decision about which hoists to buy.
So, without further ado, let’s explore 10 common types of hoists used in construction.
Types of Hoists Used in Construction
1) Swivel Hoists
Swivel hoists are hoisting devices that incorporate a swivelling mechanism, allowing the load to rotate freely during lifting operations. They are commonly used in various industries to facilitate the movement, positioning, and rotation of loads in a flexible and efficient manner.
Yoke Swivel Hoist Ring with alloy steel washer – type 204
2) Subsea Hoists
Subsea hoists are specialised lifting systems designed to handle heavy loads in underwater environments. They are engineered to withstand corrosive conditions, high pressures, and are remotely operated to support various subsea operations such as construction, maintenance, and equipment handling.
Subsea SS-L5 Lever Hoist
3) Electric Chain Hoists
Electric chain hoists use a chain and a motor to lift heavy loads. They are commonly used in industrial settings and can handle loads of up to several tons.
Yale CPS Electric Chain Hoist
4) Wire Rope Hoists
Wire rope hoists use a wire rope and a motor to lift heavy loads. They are commonly used in construction and manufacturing settings and can handle loads of up to several tons.
5) Air Hoists
Air hoists use compressed air to lift heavy loads. They are commonly used in industrial settings and are known for their high lifting capacities and reliability.
6) Hand/Manual Chain Hoists
Hand/manual chain hoists are manually operated and use a chain to lift heavy loads. They are commonly used in construction and can handle loads of up to several tons.
Yale VSIII Hand Chain Hoist
7) Lever/Ratchet Hoists
Lever/ratchet hoists are manually operated and use a lever to lift heavy loads. They are commonly used in construction and can handle loads of up to several tons.
Yale PT Pressed Steel Ratchet Lever Hoist
8) Hydraulic Hoists
Hydraulic hoists use a hydraulic system to lift heavy loads. They are commonly used in industrial settings and are known for their high lifting capacities and precision.
9) Pneumatic Hoists
Pneumatic hoists use compressed air to lift heavy loads. They are commonly used in industrial settings and are known for their reliability and durability.
Yale CPA Heavy Duty Pneumatic Chain Hoists
10) Explosion-Proof Hoists
Explosion-proof hoists are constructed with special features such as sealed motors, static grounding devices, and special wiring that prevent the ignition of explosive gases or dust. This is a concern in hazardous environments in industries such as oil and gas, chemical, and mining.
3 Main Features of Hoists
Load Chain Options
Load chain options refer to the different types of load chains that can be used in hoists, such as calibrated or uncalibrated load chains, and those made of different materials such as steel or stainless steel. The choice of load chain can depend on factors such as the weight of the load being lifted, the working environment, and safety requirements.
Hoists typically use either a load chain or wire rope to lift and move loads. The choice between load chains and wire ropes will depend on the specific application, load weight, and other factors.
Chain Hoists
Chain hoists are a type of lifting equipment that uses chains to lift and move heavy loads. They can be manually operated or electrically powered, and they are available in different load capacities to handle various weight limits.
Wire Rope Hoists
Wire rope hoists are electric hoists that use wire ropes to lift and move heavy loads. They are known for their strength, durability, and ability to handle heavy loads. Wire rope hoists can be further classified into single-part and multipart hoists, based on the number of wire ropes used.
Power Options
Hoists can be powered by different sources for different applications, including electric motors, air pressure, hydraulic power, and manual power.
Electric Hoists
Electric hoists are devices that use electricity to lift heavy loads. They provide a safe, efficient, and cost-effective way to lift and move heavy loads, reducing the risk of injuries and increasing productivity. What’s more, they are also versatile, and can be mounted in different ways to fit various applications and settings.
Manual Hoists
Manual hoists are a type of hoist that is powered by human effort, typically by pulling or cranking a lever. They are often used in situations where no power source is available, or where a small load needs to be lifted or moved.
They are generally lightweight, portable, and easy to use, but can be limited in terms of the weight they can lift and the height they can reach.
Pneumatic Hoists (Air Hoists)
Pneumatic hoists, also known as ‘air hoists’, use compressed air to lift and move heavy loads. They are known for their reliability, durability, and ease of use.
Furthermore, they can handle heavy loads, meaning they are often used in environments where there is a risk of explosion or where flammable materials are present.
Mounting Options
In construction, hoists can be mounted in different ways depending on the specific needs of the job. The mounting option determines how the hoist will be secured and how it can move, making it important to choose the right mounting option for the job.
Hook-Mounted Crane Hoists
Hook-mounted crane hoists are one of the most common mounting options. They are designed to attach to a crane using a hook, making them easy to install and move.
Versatile and adaptable, they can be used in a variety of settings. However, they are limited by the crane’s capacity and are best suited for lighter loads.
Lug-Mounted Crane Hoists
Lug-mounted crane hoists are another common mounting option. They are secured to the crane using lugs or brackets, providing a more secure and stable connection than hook-mounted hoists.
This type of hoist can typically handle heavier loads and are more suitable for industrial applications.
Trolley-Mounted Crane Hoists
Trolley-mounted crane hoists are mounted on a trolley, which allows the hoist to move horizontally along the crane beam. This provides greater flexibility in moving heavy loads and allows for more efficient use of space in a warehouse or manufacturing facility.
Trolley-mounted hoists are typically used for heavy loads in more industrial settings.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Hoist
When choosing an electric hoist, there are several factors to consider to ensureconsider, ensuring that the hoist meets the specific requirements of the application. The following are some of the key factors to consider:
Load Capacity
The load capacity of the hoist should match the weight of the load that needs to be lifted. It is important to choose a hoist with a load capacity that exceeds the weight of the load to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Lifting Height
The lifting height of the hoist should be sufficient for the application. It is important to choose a hoist with a lifting height that exceeds the height that the load needs to be lifted to.
Lifting Speed
The lifting speed of the hoist should be appropriate for the application. It is important to choose a hoist with a lifting speed that is fast enough to be efficient, but slow enough to ensure safe and controlled lifting.
Duty Cycle
The duty cycle of the hoist should match the demands of the application. It is important to choose a hoist with a duty cycle that exceeds the expected usage to ensure durability and long life.
Environment
The environment in which the hoist will be used should be considered when choosing a hoist. If the environment is wet, dusty, or corrosive, a hoist with suitable protection should be chosen to ensure long-term durability.
Power Supply
The power supply available should be considered when choosing an electric hoist. If the power supply is limited or intermittent, a hoist with a lower power requirement should be chosen to ensure that the hoist can operate reliably. It is also important to consider the voltage and frequency of the power supply to ensure that the hoist is compatible.
How to Compare Electric Hoist Types
There are a few important factors to consider when comparing between different electric hoist types. Among them are load capacity, lifting speed, price and more. Let’s take a look in further detail:
Load Capacity
Electric wire rope hoists typically have the highest load capacity, ranging from a few hundred kilos to several tons. Electric chain hoists have a similar load capacity, but are generally less than electric wire rope hoists. Electric belt hoists have a lower load capacity, typically ranging from a few hundred kilos to a ton.
Lifting Speed
Electric chain hoists generally have the highest lifting speed, followed by electric wire rope hoists and electric belt hoists. Electric chain hoists are designed for faster lifting and moving of loads, while electric wire rope hoists are designed for slower lifting and moving of heavy loads over long distances.
Lifting Height
Electric wire rope hoists are designed for lifting heavy loads over long distances, and so they have the highest lifting height. Electric chain hoists have a lower lifting height, and electric belt hoists have the lowest lifting height.
Price
Electric chain hoists are generally the most affordable option, followed by electric belt hoists and electric wire rope hoists. However, the price may vary depending on the load capacity, lifting speed, and lifting height required.
Maintenance
Electric chain hoists generally require less maintenance compared to electric wire rope and belt hoists. Electric wire rope hoists require more maintenance, including periodic wire rope inspections, lubrication, and adjustment. Electric belt hoists are easy to maintain, and they require periodic inspections and adjustments to ensure proper operation.
What is a hoist in construction?
A hoist is a mechanical device used to lift and lower heavy loads. It typically consists of a pulley system, cables or chains, and a motor or other power source. Hoists are used in construction to move materials and equipment to different levels of a building or construction site.
They come in various types and mounting options, and choosing a hoist depends on the specific needs of the construction project.
Why are hoists important?
Hoists are vital for heavy lifting in many industries, providing a safe, efficient, and versatile way to move loads. As a cost-effective solution, electric hoists are an essential component of industries that require heavy lifting, offering reliable and safe handling of loads.
Conclusion
In conclusion, electric hoists have become an essential tool in various industries, making the lifting and moving of heavy loads safer, more efficient, and less time-consuming. By understanding the different types of electric hoists and the factors to consider when choosing one, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific lifting needs.
Next Steps
If you would like to discuss any of your hoist-related needs with a professional, then don’t hesitate to contact Hawk Lifting
Commonly Asked Questions
Are cranes and hoists the same?
No, cranes and hoists are not the same. A crane is a machine that is used to lift and move heavy objects horizontally and vertically, while a hoist is a device used to lift or lower objects vertically.
What is the purpose of a hoist?
The purpose of a hoist is to lift or lower heavy objects vertically using a chain or rope. Hoists are used in a variety of industries, including construction, manufacturing, and warehousing, to move heavy materials and products efficiently and safely.
What are hoists used for in construction?
Hoists are used in construction for lifting and moving heavy materials. They can also be used to lift workers and tools to higher levels safely and efficiently, and are often installed on scaffolding or cranes to provide a reliable and secure means of transporting heavy materials and personnel.
What are the 3 main types of hoists used in construction?
The three types of hoists commonly used in construction are electric chain hoists, electric wire rope hoists, and electric belt hoists. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, making them suitable for different applications and industries.