At its very heart, an electric chain hoist does exactly the same job as a manual one. It lifts a heavy weight vertically through the use of a chain mechanism. The difference is that instead of the human muscles of the worker, it is the power of the electric motor that does the work. The motor turns a reduction gearbox, which in turn turns the load chain sprocket, thus lifting the chain up through the weight attached to the hook. Power is drawn from the mains or, in some cases, from battery packs in a smaller portable device.

The range of capacities varies widely, from small hoists that handle 250kg to larger ones that can move 5,000kg or more. The physical size also varies, although even large hoists remain relatively compact compared to their rated capacities.

The majority of electric hoists will be attached to an overhead beam system, although some will also include trolley systems that allow for horizontal movement along a beam as well as vertical lift.

Installation Isn’t Always Straightforward

Installing an electric hoist is not a simple matter of drilling a few holes in a beam to attach a piece of equipment. The beam has to be strong enough to support not only the rated capacity of the hoist, but also the weight of the hoist itself, dynamic forces when accelerating and decelerating, and possibly even a shock load if something goes catastrophically wrong.

An I-beam might look strong, but its lower width might not be suitable for a trolley, or its steel grade might not be appropriate for the application.

The height of hook approach, or the distance between the body of the hoist and the hook when fully raised, will determine the height to which a hoist will lift. Get this specification wrong, and you’ll soon realize, after installing a hoist, that it cannot lift to a height where you need to lift.

Where They Make Sense and Where They Don’t

Electric hoists are best used when the frequency of lifting is high. Manufacturing areas where the same parts are repeatedly handled through different processes. Maintenance areas where engines or gearboxes frequently need to be removed. Warehouse areas where pallets of goods frequently come in and need to be broken down.

They aren’t the best option if the frequency of lifting is low and spread out over a large area. It might be better to consider using mobile cranes, forklifts, or even manual hoists, even if it means it is slower and requires more work.

If you work in an environment with unique atmospheric conditions, such as explosive atmospheres, corrosive atmospheres, high temperatures, and the like, there is equipment designed to operate in these environments. It is, however, much more expensive and takes much longer to receive. Standard equipment is not designed to work in these environments and will fail if used improperly, which can be catastrophic.

Ultimately, it comes down to the frequency with which you lift the load, the weight being lifted, and whether the cost of the electric hoist is worth the return on investment in terms of improved efficiency and decreased strain on employees. Sometimes the answer is yes. Sometimes the answer is no.