Hand hoists are intended for horizontal lifting only. They are considered a force multiplier, giving the ability to lift very large loads with ease by using mechanical advantage. Most hand hoists are used for infrequent maintenance applications where speed is not a requirement. They have 2 sets of chain, one is for lifting and the other is used to pull or lower the load. They are considerably less expensive than powered hoists, but require physical effort (pulling on the hand chain) to lift the load. They are not fast and should not be specified for continuous lifting applications, especially when long lifts are required. Several are light and small enough and considered more portable and allow them to be taken to the job site.

Selection Criteria

Load Capacity (lbs. or tons): The weight of the load to be lifted. A hoist’s rated capacity is the maximum load for which the hoist is designed by the manufacturer to lift. Carefully consider the load weight including attachments such as slings, grabs, spreader beams etc. and the capacity of the hoist.

Lift (ft.): The maximum length of travel required for raising and lowering the load. Standard lifts are generally 8,10,15 and 20 ft. lifts.

Hand Chain Drop: The length of chain required for the hoist’s hand chain. The drop is normally 2 ft. less than the length of lift, which prevents the chain from contacting the floor. The actual length of hand chain required is approximately 2 x lift minus 2 ft., since the chain is in a continuous loop when it travels around the hoist’s hand chin wheel.

Suspension: How or where will the hoist be attached? Most hand chain hoists are sold with a top hook used for single point suspending. They can also be hooked on to a trolley, or built special with a top lug or eyebolt. This allows attachment to a low headroom style trolley for more permanent installations. Accessories: Are there any other special requirements? Many hoist manufacturers offer special options such as chain containers to hold the excess load chain, plated chain for corrosion resistance and special spark resistant features for hooks and chain.

Applications

Hand chain hoists are most often used as an in-plant tool for periodic maintenance applications. A typical use might be for lifting pumps, generators, or other heavy equipment in water treatment facilities. Whether used in construction, machine shops, automotive garages, farms, or in the private home, hundreds of applications exist for a hand chain hoist.

CAUTION: This equipment is intended for industrial use only and should NOT be used to lift, support, or otherwise transport people, or to suspend loads over people.