Choosing the Right Hoist for the Job

Mechanical hoists are simple, useful tools for lifting and moving heavy loads. Hoists can move loads up or down, though supplementary tools allow movement of loads horizontally. Hoists are defined by multiple properties, including the lifting medium, the hoist’s power source, the suspension method, and the hoist’s lifting capacity. It is important to use the right hoist for the job. Before renting or purchasing a hoist, there are four factors to consider.

The Load Being Hoisted

It is vital to know the weight of the load being hosted, as using the wrong hoist can damage the hoist and endanger the workers around it. Hoists are specifically designed for certain pound ranges; the strongest hoists can lift 50 tons (100,000 pounds), whereas the least powerful hosts can lift 1,000 pounds. It’s a good practice to round up when calculating the weight of the load being hoisted. Hoists with chains are suitable for loads under 5 tons, but hoists with wire ropes should be used when dealing with loads heavier than 5 tons.

Choosing Between a Manual Hoist and an Electric Hoist

The three factors that should determine whether to acquire a manual hoist or an electric hoist are the available manpower of the company, the distance that the load will be moved, and the timeline of the project. Manual hoists lift at approximately 2 feet per minute. Electric hoists can lift from 8 to 28 feet per minute. Electric hoists may have higher up-front costs, but electric hoists may save money in the long run depending on how much labor costs are reduced.

How the Hoist Will be Rigged

Hoists require specialized infrastructure to install and operate. Companies without this infrastructure at their worksite will need to rent or purchase a gantry crane. Gantry cranes, like hoists, are designed for certain weight ranges, so ensure that the gantry crane can safely handle the load being hoisted.

Additional Equipment

Successful hoist operation requires supplementary equipment – in addition to supporting infrastructure or a gantry crane -- to properly operate. Beam clamps safely secure the hoist. Beam trolleys allow the load to be moved horizontally. Come-along tools can be used as a substitute for beam trolleys to move loads horizontally. As is the case with hoists, the equipment should be verified as suitable for the weight of the load being moved.

Americrane and Hoist Company offers a variety of hoists as well as repair and maintenance services for hoists. We sell electronic hoists and manual hoists, and we also sell refurbished hoists. Our electric hoists can lift up to 2 tons, and our manual hoists can lift up to 6 tons. Our beam clamps are suitable for loads up to 10 tons. We sell hoists from over 50 brands, including Coffing, ACCO, and Chester Hoist. We also keep a robust inventory of hoist parts. And we offer far more services and parts than what is currently listed on our website, including inspections of hoists and cranes. Call 1-216-267-9100 today to check our current inventory for the hoists, hoist parts, and hoist services your company needs.