What Are Overhead Hoists, and How Do They Compare to Other Lifting Solutions?

Overhead hoists are essential to many industrial operations for a variety of reasons. Learn what overhead hoists are and how they compare to other lifting solutions below.

Chain Hoists

This hoist type utilizes a chain and pulley system to gain the mechanical advantage necessary to lift heavy materials and loads. They can be powered through manual labor, electricity, or pneumatically (air-powered). These hoists can usually handle five tons or less.

Wire Rope Hoists

Like chain hoists, but because of the wire rope and the fact it is wound around a circular drum, these hoists have a higher lifting capacity and can lift the loads to greater heights. They are usually powered by electricity but can also be powered by air.

Overhead Hoists: Manual and Electric

Manual overhead hoists gain mechanical leverage through a chain and pulley system, while electrically powered ones are often incorporated into overhead cranes. Manual hoists can lift relatively light objects and require no electricity or air. Electric ones can lift heavier loads than manual ones and are used in many industrial applications.

How Overhead Hoists and Cranes Differ

Overhead hoists are mounted onto the crane structure and only lift items on the vertical axis. They can be powered through manual labor, electricity, or air. Overhead cranes can transfer heavy loads vertically and horizontally; thus, they can move them up and down or from side to side. The crane structure is needed to support the hoist, which can be either mobile or fixed.

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