How a Manual Chain Block Hoist Can Speed Up Lifting Operations
A manual chain block hoist can help you speed up lifting operations, allowing you to get the job done faster. Other benefits include safety and cost efficiency.
Never attempt to make modifications or shortcuts when operating the hoist, as this could void the warranty and put you and your employees in danger. Make sure the workplace is clear of personnel and equipment and that the device is always centered below the load.
Productivity
Using a manual chain hoist can speed up lifting operations, helping your crew get the job done ahead of schedule. Having heavy loads lifted and moved quickly is not only better for productivity, it’s also safer and less stressful for your team.
Manual chain blocks can be of a suspended or built in type; the former will usually incorporate a top hook, shackle or eyebolt by which it can be hung. The latter are generally combined with a purpose made travelling trolley but can be attached directly to the supporting structure.
Both styles of chain block will usually be rated for a certain load, the maximum capacity at which they should safely work. Loads are tested at the factory to ensure they will not damage or overwork a hoist. Many also have a feature called overload protection which allows the chain to be lowered under its rated capacity, saving lives and property. Premium models will typically have a high level of quality components that are designed with long life in mind. This is important because your rigging equipment needs to be durable enough to withstand rugged use day in, day out.
Safety
Although a chain block hoist makes it faster and easier to move heavy loads around the workplace, they are still dangerous equipment that can cause serious injury if used incorrectly. This is why it’s important to always prioritise safety when working with them.
Only trained and authorised personnel should be allowed to operate the chain block hoist. Before use, it should be inspected and ensured that the load is properly secured. It’s manual chain block hoist also important to check that the chain isn’t twisted and that the correct connection pin has been selected for each lift.
It’s also important to keep the workplace clear of other items and personnel during lifting operations and to ensure that all rigging hardware is securely attached to the load. Never stand under a suspended load and be sure to use tag lines for horizontal movement. It’s also a good idea to avoid excessively jogging the hoist motor as this will generate heat in the motor windings and could lead to eventual failure. We stock a range of manual chain block hoists that are suitable for use in hazardous environments and are fully compliant with ATEX regulations.
Versatility
Compared to electric hoists that need an electrical power source, manual chain blocks can be operated by simply using the hand chain over the gears and turning them manually. This means they can be used for a wide variety of applications and locations and are the perfect option for when power is unavailable.
They’re commonly used in garages by mechanics to lift engines and other heavy components for repair, or for moving large items around factory floors. They can also be used for a wide range of construction and maintenance projects, including rigging work in areas with low headroom.
A wide variety of models are available in our manual lifting chain hoist manual chain block hoist collection, with capacities starting at 250kg up to a massive 50 tonnes. Whether you’re looking for a standard model or a more specialised one, our expert team is here to help you find the best one for your requirements. We can advise you on the most suitable capacity for your application, and provide recommendations for additional features, such as a safety brake or load-sharing gears.
Durability
When you’re dealing with heavy loads it can take a long time to lift and manoeuvre them around, which affects your productivity. A chain hoist can speed up this process to ensure you get the job done on time.
Industrial hand chain block hoists are incredibly durable and can withstand some serious pressure when lifting and lowering your loads. They also don’t require any electricity to operate so they’re great for operating in remote and unmanned locations.
The load chains on our chain blocks are crafted from premium grade alloy steel that’s been heat treated and expertly forged to ensure strength. This gives them a high breaking stress and resists corrosion.
The brakes on our chain block hoists use a double-pawl mechanism to offer the best possible safety standards. This prevents the chain from accidentally releasing or freewheeling while the unit is suspended. This can be a life saver in certain environments where the risk of injuries is heightened. They also have a high-quality ratchet assembly to protect the gears from damage. The flanged load sheave and guide rollers help reduce friction, further improving their durability.
ATEX
In many industries and trades, flammable gases, mists, vapours or combustible dusts can create explosive atmospheres which pose a serious risk to employees. This means that a high level of safety is needed to work in these environments. This can be achieved by using equipment that is ATEX certified. A manual chain hoist is an ideal option for such environments as it does not require a power supply and does not spark or emit any heat.
The ATEX certification means that it can be used in potentially explosive atmospheres, for example oil and gas production, mining and petrochemical, as long as the relevant guidelines and regulations are followed. The Yalelift 360 ATEX is an excellent choice for such applications as it has all the features of a conventional hand chain hoist but with ATEX certification.
The ATEX model also benefits from heavy-duty cast hooks with safety latches that close against the hook tip, creating a strong and robust hook closure. Both top and bottom hooks are embossed with a batch code, manufacturer’s mark and working load limit for traceability.