How to Maintain an Electric Chain Hoist
Compared to manual hoists, electric chain hoists are significantly more efficient and durable. They also consume two to four times less power, reducing electricity bills and operating costs.
The first step in choosing an electric chain hoist is determining its power requirements. You must know what voltage your job site is wired for so you can choose the right model.
Power
An electric chain hoist uses a motor to lift and lower heavy-duty materials electric chain hoist in industrial settings. The motor is attached to a sheave or drum that holds either wire rope or chain, and the sheave or drums are connected to hooks or cable carriers. The motor provides the necessary power to rotate the sheave or chain and move a load up and down on its track, and it is often mounted on an industrial trolley.
To avoid accidental damage, an electric chain hoist has a built-in electromagnetic brake that engages to keep the load secure while in operation. This system also shuts off the motor when power is cut to prevent over-lifting or lowering. The motor also has a sensor that detects overheating and can shut the hoist down before it can cause an accident or damage to the machine.
Electric hoists are commonly used in steel warehousing, fabrication industries, machine shops, mills and foundries, service and maintenance operations, and for handling loads that exceed the human lifting capacity. The design of an electric hoist can vary, but most models have a range of features to improve efficiency and safety. These include a limit switch, hook latch, and a pendant push button station that operates at low voltage for thumb or two-handed operation. Some have a NEMA 3R enclosure that protects the equipment from dust, dirt and moisture.
Design
Electric chain hoists are more efficient than manual chain hoists, saving you on energy costs. They use between two and four times less power than a manual chain hoist and do not depend on the operator’s strength, providing more uniform motion control throughout operation. A built-in electromagnetic brake prevents sway or vibration while hoisting loads.
Unlike manual chain hoists, which use a lever to activate the chain, an electric chain hoist uses a remote control to move the chain. This reduces the operator’s exposure to hazards and increases safety in high-stress situations. They can also be used to lift items in hard-to-reach places, such as above a warehouse or shop floor.
When choosing a hoist, consider the load you’ll be lifting and its height. Some manufacturers offer models that can lift up to 50 tons. A hoist’s duty cycle is another factor to consider, as it specifies how long equipment can operate before it needs a break.
An electric chain hoist has a motor that powers the gearing inside its load chain drum. The electric motor converts alternating current to direct current, sending power through the hoist system to rotate the drum and wind up the suspending chain around it. This process continues until overload protection stops it or until you reach your desired height. Most chain hoists use single-disc brakes, while others have dual-disc brake systems that provide greater stopping torque.
Safety
The most important thing to remember when using an electric chain hoist is safety. There are several rules and regulations associated with these devices that must be strictly adhered to at all times to prevent injuries to personnel or damage to equipment. These include: ensuring that the load is not dropped or allowed to swing freely, that there are no people around the load, that the hook and upper suspension is firmly attached to the load, that the wire rope clamps and any other safety devices are intact, and that there is nothing blocking the hoist.
Before operating an electric chain hoist, the operator must check that all controls are in working order. This includes a short test of the controls and examination electric chain hoist of the wiring and connectors. Hoists should also be inspected for defects such as excessive wear, corrosion and rust. These must be repaired before hoists are used again.
A hoist’s motor control device is designed to monitor speed, current and voltage and shut off power if any abnormalities are detected. It should also have a magnetic overload relay that protects the motor from overheating and an emergency stop switch or button that can be activated in case of malfunction.
In addition, the work area where hoists are operated must be well-ventilated. This will reduce humidity, which can cause problems with the electric circuitry. Hoists should also be stored away from areas where pests may be present as these can weaken cables and other attachments by chewing or gnawing them.
Maintenance
Whether it’s an electric chain hoist or a manual one, regular maintenance procedures should be followed to reduce the risk of damage and accidents. These procedures are generally easier and less expensive than replacing damaged parts, so they’re worth the effort. Some maintenance tasks include no-load operation, cleaning the sprocket and rope guide, and examining the limit switch and motor brake. Some manufacturers also provide specific maintenance procedures for each type of hoist.
The most important maintenance step is checking the load capacity. It’s vital to avoid overloading, which can cause the load to drop or fall. Using an automatic overload protection system can prevent this from happening. In addition, it is advisable to use an electric chain hoist in dry areas and not in humid, high-temperature or chemical environments.
Another critical step in maintaining an electric chain hoist is lubricating the load chain and wire rope. The chains should be lubricated regularly according to the manufacturer’s specifications to extend their lifespan. In addition, the wire rope should be checked for nicks, gouges, kinks, distortion, birdcaging and strand displacement.
A hoist that is taking longer than usual to lift or lower the load may be in need of maintenance. This is a sign that the hoist is overworking, which can shorten its lifespan and impact its performance. The problem could be caused by a worn or damaged brake, gears, or chain.