If your day to day business includes lifting heavy objects from one place to the next, then you need a chain block. There’s no question about it.
If you’re looking for a chain block Adelaide and most large cities have plenty of sellers that supply these. Given the different types of chain blocks at your disposal, careful consideration is needed to avoid buying the wrong one. No need to feel overwhelmed; take your cue from these handy tips.
Consider the Operation Type
Chain pulley blocks have different operation types which are determined by the source of power. Do you pick the manual or electric chain block? Or do you pick the one that’s powered by air?
The type you buy depends on the intended application, cost, lifting speed and operating environment. We differentiate the three operation types below:
- Manual hand chain hoist: This is the cheapest of the three types. Manual chain blocks will suffice for temporary use and lifting low capacity loads. They’re also ideal for lifting loads across short distances.
- Electric chain hoist: This type offers fast lifting speeds. As such they’re ideal for heavy duty tasks and lifting heavy loads across long distances.
- Pneumatic chain hoist: This type is powered by air and also offers fast lifting speeds. Because there are no electrical risks associated with this product, you can use it in areas that may be hazardous for electrical chain blocks such as places with flammable gas. Just be prepared for a little noise because pneumatic chain blocks are rather loud compared to the other types.
Consider the Weight of the Load
How heavy is the load that you want to carry? Whether you want the manual or electric chain block, first consider the weight of the heaviest load to be lifted.
Chain blocks have a rated capacity that’s stipulated by the manufacturer. To avoid accidents make sure that the load you intend to carry doesn’t exceed that rating.
Pick a Suspension Type
Chain hoists have different suspension types. They can either be mounted on a trolley using mounting hardware or suspended in a fixed location.
Consider your work site and how you intend to use your hoists. Will you be using them in multiple locations or just one? Pick a trolley-mounted chain hoist if you’re going to be lifting objects from one location to the next.
Consider the Duty Class of the Chain Block
Chain blocks are classified according to different duty classes which you need to observe. The class of the equipment in question depends on factors such as:
- How many lifts you’re going to perform hourly with the chain block
- The average as well as maximum load that you intend to lift
- The average distance that the load will be raised or lowered
- The overall number of stops and starts of the machine per hour
The duty class rating is usually stated in the user manual. Make sure that you familiarise yourself before operating the unit.
What is the Lifting Speed?
The lifting speeds on different chain blocks vary. No doubt chain blocks with fast lifting speeds will make the tasks go much faster, making them ideal for:
- A high number of lifting and lowering cycles
- Long lifts
- Tasks that you need completed in a short space of time
The Power Supply
In the case of electric chain hoists, you must consider the power supply that they produce. As a general rule of thumb, there are electric chain blocks which produce 120Vor 230V. Hoists which produce this range of power are ideal for small spaces such as garages, workshops or medium-sized manufacturing sites.
Those that produce 460V or 575V are ideal for heavy industries which require more power supply to get jobs gone on a large scale.
Consider the Operating Space
Before buying the largest chain block on the market, consider whether you have the space for it. You want to pick a product that can operate optimally in the intended environment and still leave you with enough room to manoeuvre.
Consider whether the hoist in question will have enough headroom and side clearance. The chain block must move freely when fully extended.
Consider the Operating Environment
You also need to consider the operating environment where you intend to use the equipment. Standard chain blocks are designed to operate under “normal conditions” and won’t suffer much damage.
But there are operating conditions which require specialized equipment. These include locations with:
- Extreme temperatures
- Corrosive atmospheres
- Marine environments
- Last-laden environments
Final Words
Selecting the right chain block is crucial if you expect smooth operation at your work site. Follow the outlined tips and we’re certain that you’ll purchase the correct one for your needs.
Feel free to ask for advice from qualified contractors who’ve got experience with using chain blocks. They’ll help you pick the right one for your needs. Buy from reputable sellers so that you get quality equipment. And make sure that the chain blocks are covered by reasonable warranty periods in case of malfunctions.
Are you ready to go chain block shopping?
