Different Types of Hoists and Their Uses

Hoists are among the most essential tools in the rigging industry for lifting and material handling. A hoist is a mechanical device designed to lift, lower, or move a load using a drum or lift wheel around which a rope or chain is wound. Selecting the appropriate hoist depends on several factors, including load size, environment, frequency of use, and, most importantly, the application and industry.

We'll cover the different types of hoists, how they work, and where they are most effectively used.

Manual chain hoists, also known as hand chain hoists, utilize a chain and pulley system to lift heavy objects manually. They are dependable, low-maintenance, and suitable for locations without power access.

•   Construction: Lifting equipment, steel beams, and formwork on job sites.
•   Maintenance & Repair: Workshops use them to hoist engines and parts.
•   Warehousing: Occasionally used for loading and offloading equipment.
•   Utilities: In remote environments where electrical power is not available.

•   Portable and easy to operate.
•   No power supply required.
•   Excellent for tight spaces and light-duty lifting.

Lever hoists function by moving a ratcheting lever back and forth to either tension or lift the load. They are capable of lifting vertically or pulling loads horizontally, which adds to their versatility.

•   Rigging & Erection: Ideal for tensioning and positioning beams or components.
•   Shipbuilding & Offshore: Used to align large structural components.
•   Utilities & Telecom: Stringing cables and lifting gear.
•   Mining: Horizontal pulling and recovery tasks in confined spaces.

•   Allows for precise load control.
•   Works in any position—ideal for awkward spaces.
•   Great for alignment and load securing.

•   Manufacturing: Found in assembly lines for moving parts or products.
•   Aerospace: Precision lifting for aircraft parts and engines.
•   Automotive: Engine mounting, press assembly, and bodywork positioning.
•   Warehousing: Efficient pallet handling and overhead lifting of heavy goods.

•   Increases productivity by reducing manual labor.
•   Compatible with push or motorized trolleys for side-to-side movement.
•   Comes with overload protection and remote-control features.

Pneumatic hoists use compressed air, providing spark-free and explosion-proof operation. This feature makes them ideal for hazardous or flammable environments.

•   Oil & Gas: Ideal for offshore platforms and refineries.
•   Chemical Processing: Safe for flammable or vapor-heavy environments.
•   Mining: Deep shaft lifting without the risk of sparks.
•   Heavy Manufacturing: Forging and foundry work where heat or fumes are present.

•   Excellent for use in explosive or hazardous areas.
•   Continuous operation with air compressors.
•   Lightweight and corrosion-resistant options are available.

Wire rope hoists utilize a steel cable wound around a drum, enabling smooth and rapid lifting, as well as improved vertical alignment. They are generally more durable than chain hoists.

•   Steel & Metal Fabrication: Lifting coils, plates, and fabricated components.
•   Shipbuilding: Transporting large sections of hulls or engines.
•   Infrastructure Construction: Bridge building and precast concrete assembly.
•   Cranes & Gantries: Frequently mounted to overhead cranes for heavy-duty lifting.

•   High speed and long lift heights.
•   Smooth lifting for precise handling.
•   Can support extremely heavy loads—up to 100 tons and more.

Construction hoists are large, high-capacity units that lift personnel or materials to elevated work areas.

•   High-Rise Construction: Transporting workers and tools to upper floors.

•   Scaffold Erection: Assisting in building and dismantling temporary structures.

•   Facade Work: Cleaning, painting, and repair of building exteriors.

•   Can be configured for materials or personnel.
•   High-capacity lifting for large or bulky materials.
•   Available in different options like rack-and-pinion or wire rope types.

Choosing the correct hoist involves more than simply knowing what needs to be lifted. It takes matching the equipment to the specific operational requirements, safety needs, and working environment. Here's what to consider when selecting a hoist:

1. Load Capacity - This is the most critical consideration. Always select a hoist with a capacity rating higher than your heaviest load. Operating close to or above the hoist's rated capacity can lead to accelerated wear, equipment failure, and safety hazards.
2. Lifting Height - Consider how far the load needs to travel vertically. Hoists are available in standard lift heights, along with custom options. Accurately measuring is essential to avoid purchasing equipment with an insufficient range.
3.  Frequency of Use - The frequency of lifting affects your choice between a manual, electric, or pneumatic hoist. Manual hoists are best for infrequent lifts, while electric and pneumatic models are preferred for high-cycle or continuous operations.
4. Power Availability - Assess whether your worksite has consistent access to electricity or compressed air. If neither is reliably available, manual or battery-powered hoists might be more practical.
5. Precision and Speed - Some applications need slow, controlled lifts (like those in manufacturing or equipment installation), whereas others require quick material handling. Consider hoists with variable speed controls if precision is important.
6. Mounting and Suspension - The installation method for the hoist—whether hook-mounted, lug-mounted, or trolley-mounted—will depend on your space, infrastructure, and whether you require horizontal movement in addition to vertical lifting.
7. Environmental Conditions - Outdoor sites, marine environments, high-heat foundries, and chemical plants all pose challenges. Select hoists designed to endure the elements—seek features like corrosion resistance, weather-sealed controls, or explosion-proof ratings if necessary.
8. Safety Features - Seek built-in overload protection, emergency shutoff systems, load brakes, and limit switches to improve the safety of your operation. Adhering to OSHA, ASME, and ANSI standards is also vital.

By assessing these factors, it can help ensure that the hoist you choose is not only capable of executing the task but also enhances a safer and more productive working environment.

No matter your lifting challenge, there's a hoist designed to meet your needs—and at Empire Rigging & Supply, we're here to help you find it.

Whether you're lifting engines in a garage, running heavy-duty operations in a plant, or working in hazardous environments that require specialized equipment, we offer a full range of manual, electric, and wire rope hoists from trusted manufacturers.

Contact us to let our rigging experts guide you through:

•   Selecting the right hoist capacity, lift height, and control features.
•   Matching your hoist with compatible trolleys and beam clamps.
•   Ensuring OSHA and ANSI compliance for workplace safety.
•   Customizing solutions for unique applications or environmental needs.