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How Can Chain Be Used to Lift Objects? 

Manual chain blocks and hoists are versatile lifting solutions that you can use in various work environments and conditions. Chain hoists are classified into two types: manual chain hoists and electric chain hoists. 

Manual chain hoists, as you might expect, require a pulling action to lift objects, whereas electric chain hoists do most of the heavy lifting for you, using internal motors to pull the chain and lift heavy loads. 

Do you want to learn more about how chain blocks work? Here is your ultimate guide on how Chain blocks can be used to lift objects.  

What is a Chain Block? 

A Chain Block is a mechanism that uses a chain to lift and lower heavy loads. Chain blocks consist of two wheels around which the chain is wrapped. Pulling on the chain encircles the wheels, lifting whatever is hooked onto the rope or chain. Significantly, to help distribute the load more evenly, you can also fasten Chain Blocks to lifting slings or chain bags. 

However, since there are various manufacturers of chain blocks, it’s crucial to research the best lifting chain supplier who offers reliable, practical, and durable chain blocks so as not to spend so much on repair and worry about the safety of your employees. 

How a manual chain hoist works 

The chain hoist mechanism employs a mechanical advantage to convert a small force over a long distance to a significant force over a short distance. This is accomplished by using multiple larger and smaller gears. 

To lift a load, the chain hoist operator must pull the hand chain down, which turns the cog and axle that runs through the lifting mechanism. Multiple gears inside the lifting mechanism increase the mechanical force applied when pulling the hand chain using gear ratio, allowing easy lifting loads with considerable ton capacity. 

Chain hoists lift loads more slowly than hydraulic hoists because more giant gears move slower than smaller gears but produce more force. Significantly, a grab hook at the lifting chain’s end makes it possible to attach and remove a load. Furthermore, most chain hoist lifting mechanisms include a ratchet or braking system that prevents the load from slipping back. 

What Are Chain Blocks Used For? 

Chain blocks are most commonly found in mechanics’ garages because you can use them to hoist heavy components, such as engines, without much difficulty. 

Many recovery vehicles use chain blocks for hoisting damaged vehicles onto truck beds when doing road recovery.This is useful when you cannot drive the car due to significant damage. 

Additionally, assembly line factories use chain blocks to lift items to and from the belt and on construction sites where they can lift loads from higher levels. 

What to know before buying a Manual chain block? 

The benefits of a manual chain hoist outweigh those of any alternative, such as a wire rope hoist. When you select the right one, they are low cost, low maintenance, and lightweight, making it easy to relocate if necessary. 

A hoist can last long if you choose the right one for the job; using one that isn’t adequately protected or has a lower capacity than required can be dangerous. Investing in the safest option will be worth your money and time to ensure that your hoist performs optimally over its long life. 

However, purchasing more than one type may be necessary if a chain block is required for multiple applications or environments. Otherwise, it will deteriorate faster, causing productivity and safety issues. 

What features do I need to look out for in a chain block? 

  • Weight capacity:

    The first thing you should determine before purchasing a Chain block is the maximum amount of weight you will be lifting, not just in one go but over an average day. 

Because most hoists are calibrated in a quarter or half-ton increments, you must round up to the nearest number. For example, if the weight you’ll be lifting is slightly more than 1000kg, you’ll need the 2000kg chain block. 

Always choose a hoist with a capacity greater than what you usually lift. A larger hoist will reduce wear and tear on your chain block and extend its life if you lift many 1000kg loads in a day.

  • Suspension:

    There are two standard methods for hanging the chain hoist: lug suspension and hook suspension. Most chain hoists include lug suspension, ideal for use in confined spaces with limited headroom. 

  • Lift distance:

    When purchasing a manual chain hoist, you must select a height of lift option, which is the distance between the hoist and the lifted load. Notably, a lift height of 3 or 6 meters is typical. This is crucial, so you don’t have to pay for a replacement when you realize the size you bought is no longer usable. 

Bottomline   

There are several advantages to using manual chain blocks. Investing in these devices can increase your company’s profits and productivity. Furthermore, your employees will not be concerned much about their safety as they would not be doing the heavy lifting. The device’s durability will also be affected if the ambient temperature is too hot or too cold.

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