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Types of Rigging Hoists
Whether lifting heavy machinery on construction sites or positioning components in manufacturing facilities, hoists provide the mechanical advantage required to move loads safely and efficiently. Simply put, hoists are lifting devices that use manual force, leverage, or electric power to raise, lower, or pull heavy objects, and are essential to nearly every rigging operation, offering controlled movement, load security, and reducing strain on workers.
Hoists are commonly paired with cranes, trolleys, and rigging assemblies, and can be suspended from beams, gantries, or other overhead structures. The type of hoist selected depends on the application, environment, available power sources, and frequency of use. Below, you’ll find a variety of hoisting solutions offered by Empire Rigging, each designed to meet specific operational needs.
Manual Chain Hoists
Manual chain hoists, also referred to as hand chain hoists or chain blocks, are straightforward yet highly effective lifting tools. By pulling a hand chain, these hoists use gears to amplify force and lift heavy loads with minimal effort.
Features and Benefits
• Rugged Construction: Constructed from high-strength steel components, manual hoists are engineered to operate under harsh conditions, ensuring a long service life.
• Precision Lifting: The manual operation provides fine control over positioning, making it ideal for sensitive or delicate lifts.
• Cost Efficiency: With no power requirements, they are economical to operate and maintain.
• Mobility: Being lightweight and portable, they are ideal for fieldwork and situations where mobility is essential.
Common Applications
• Hoisting materials on job sites with limited or no access to power.
• Maintenance work in plants where reliability and control are crucial.
• Occasional or light-duty lifting needs in warehouses or storage areas.
• Lifting engines and equipment in auto repair shops and garages.
Lever Chain Hoists
Lever chain hoists—often referred to as ratchet lever hoists or come-alongs—represent another type of manual lifting device that provides the additional capability to pull and position loads both vertically and horizontally. By cranking a lever, they are extremely versatile and preferred in tight or awkward spaces.
Features and Benefits
• Versatile Orientation: Unlike traditional hoists, lever hoists can pull from various angles, making them ideal for load positioning and tensioning tasks.
• Compact and Lightweight: Created for portability, they can be effortlessly transported to remote or challenging locations.
• Positive Load Control: Equipped with internal load brakes and hooks that swivel for added flexibility and safety.
• Quick Setup: Easy to attach to a beam, pipe, or anchor point using a simple hook connection.
Common Applications
• Rigging and positioning structural components in construction.
• Tight-space lifting operations in HVAC, utilities, and mining industries.
• Load securing during transport or equipment maintenance.
• Pulling, stretching, or aligning pipes, conduits, and cables.
Electric Chain Hoists
Electric chain hoists are the ideal solution for high-volume, repetitive lifting operations. Using electric power instead of manual effort, these hoists dramatically improve productivity while minimizing worker fatigue and risk.
Features and Benefits
• High Lifting Speeds: Designed to quickly raise and lower heavy loads, reducing downtime and increasing output.
• Precision and Safety: Advanced braking systems, overload limiters, and optional remote controls enhance operational safety and control.
• Reduced Physical Strain: Ideal for frequent lifting operations where manual hoists would be too labor-intensive.
• Customizable Options: Available in single-phase or three-phase models, with various lift heights, hook types, and pendant controls.
Common Applications
• Assembly lines and production floors that require repetitive lifting.
• Warehousing operations for stacking, loading, and managing inventory.
• Steel mills, shipyards, and fabrication shops that handle heavy components.
• Overhead crane systems that require centralized control and automation.
Choosing the Right Hoist from Empire Rigging
Regardless of your application, Empire Rigging provides hoisting equipment that adheres to the highest standards of safety, durability, and performance. Whether you require the simplicity and reliability of a manual chain hoist, the versatility of a lever hoist, or the speed and power of an electric hoist, our products are designed to accomplish the task effectively. We also offer essential accessories, trolleys, and beam clamps to assist you in constructing the ideal lifting system.
Our team of rigging experts is ready to help you choose the right equipment based on your load capacity, lifting height, power requirements, and usage environment. Let Empire Rigging be your trusted partner in lifting and rigging solutions—delivering the performance and safety your job demands.