The construction site – whether indoors or outdoors – is obviously always replete with a host of heavy machinery. It’s the muscle needed to fulfil the gruelling requirements of building.
The lifting hoist, then, is a vital part of this power-core – it’s called upon to move heavier objects around the site, safely and quickly.
But there are many kinds of projects, site locations and things to lift, so how do you go about choosing a construction lifting hoist that’s going to suit your job, and for the longest time possible?
Let’s unpack what a lifting hoist is here, and how to choose the right one for the job.
What is a hoist?
A hoist is a piece of equipment or device used for lifting or lowering a load. Among the main components of a hoist, there’s usually a drum or lift-wheel, with a rope or chain wrapped around to drive the lifting mechanism. A hoist can be operated manually, electrically, or pneumatically.
How do you know which type of hoist is right for your business operations?
There are many factors to consider when choosing a lifting hoist for your project. The first thing you need to decide is what type of lifting hoist you need. There are three main types of lifting hoists: electric, chain, and wire rope.
Electric chain lifting hoists
Electric lifting hoists are the most popular type of lifting hoist. They are easy to use and can lift heavy loads. However, they are more expensive than manual lifting hoists, and a lot less robust.
Manual chain lifting hoists
Manual chain lifting hoists are another popular type of lifting hoist. They are less expensive than electric lifting hoists, but they can be more difficult to use. Chain lifting hoists can lift heavy loads, but they may not be as smooth as electric chain lifting hoists. Their operation can also take longer than the electric iteration, so that time discrepancy must be taken into account, if the manual chain lifting hoist needs to be operated.
Wire rope lifting hoists
Wire rope lifting hoists are the most popular type of lifting hoist. They are stronger, more robust, and last longer than other chain lifting hoists. What’s more, they’re perfect for lifting particularly heavy loads.
5 factors should you consider when choosing a lifting hoist
The specific application for a given hoist in a warehouse or building site situation, can differ on a daily basis. However, a modicum of thought needs to be applied to the broad scope of possible work the lifting hoist may be exposed to, as the need may arise.
Here are 5 factors to check, when considering the need and purpose of a lifting hoist.
- What are you lifting? – Once you have decided on the type of lifting hoist you need, you need
to decide on the capacity. The capacity is the maximum weight that the lifting hoist can lift.
Make sure to choose a lifting hoist with a capacity that is appropriate for your project. - How often will the hoist be used? – Lifting hoists are manufactured to classes that specify
their regularity of use in particular project requirements. Knowing these classes, and how
often a hoist will be, and can be, used, will dictate the longevity of the machine. - How fast must the hoist move and lift? – You also need to consider the lifting speed of the
lifting hoist. The lifting speed is how fast the lifting hoist can move the load up and down.
Make sure to choose a lifting hoist with a lifting speed that is appropriate for your project. - How often does the hoist need to be serviced? – The construction environment is tough, and
any piece of equipment there will be put through its paces – the lifting hoist is no exception.
So, consider the cost of maintaining this equipment, how often the machine needs to be
serviced and the components that need to be checked more regularly. - What is the budget? – Finally, you need to consider the price of the lifting hoist. Make sure to
choose a lifting hoist that is within your budget.
When you are ready to purchase a lifting hoist, make sure to shop around and compare prices. Be sure to read customer reviews before you purchase a lifting hoist. This will help you make sure that you are getting a quality product.
Alternatively, come straight to FB Cranes. We have the lifting hoists for you, to suit your project type, budget and timeframe.
Click here – We have a construction lift hoist for every need.