Should I Use A Chain Hoist or a Lever Hoist?

A chain hoist and a lever hoist serve similar purposes—lifting or moving heavy loads—but they differ in design, operation, and specific applications. This blog looks at breaking down their individual use cases:

Chain Hoist

A chain hoist (also known as a chain block or manual hoist) uses a pulley system with a hand chain to lift or lower heavy loads in a vertical direction.

Use Cases:
1. Lifting heavy loads vertically: The primary use of a chain hoist is to lift objects straight up or lower them down. It is ideal for lifting heavy materials in factories, warehouses, and construction sites.

2. Overhead applications: Chain hoists are often used for lifting objects into place in overhead spaces, such as installing equipment in workshops or lifting large components in assembly operations.

3. Fixed location use: A chain hoist is typically mounted to a beam, trolley, or structure, making it ideal for tasks where the hoist remains in a single location for repetitive lifting.

4. Precise load control: Chain hoists offer controlled, slow lifting, making them ideal for tasks requiring careful positioning, such as machinery assembly or maintenance.

5. Heavy-duty loads: Chain hoists are generally more suitable for very heavy loads (multiple tons), due to the mechanical advantage provided by the pulley system.

Lever Hoist

A lever hoist (or come-along) uses a ratchet and pawl mechanism, operated by a handle or lever, to lift or pull loads in any direction—vertical, horizontal, or angled.

Use Cases:
1. Versatile pulling and lifting: Unlike chain hoists, lever hoists can lift loads vertically, but they are also commonly used to pull or drag loads horizontally (e.g., moving machinery or vehicles). This makes them useful in scenarios where the load needs to be moved in various directions.

2. Tight spaces: Lever hoists are compact and portable, making them well-suited for working in tight spaces or in the field. They are frequently used in applications like rigging, positioning heavy objects, or adjusting the alignment of equipment.

3. Mobile and remote work: Due to their portability, lever hoists are ideal for tasks that require movement between locations or for jobs in remote areas like construction sites, outdoor projects, and emergency rescues.

4. Smaller loads and shorter lifts: Lever hoists are generally used for smaller loads compared to chain hoists. They’re typically rated for loads in the 0.5-ton to 6-ton range, and they’re more efficient for short lifts or quick adjustments.

5. Tensioning applications: Lever hoists are often used to apply tension to cables, ropes, or chains in operations like securing loads, adjusting scaffolding, or erecting poles. 

Some lever hoists feature a built in loadcell - The Oz Dynohoist for example

Comparison Summary
Chain Hoist:  Best for stationary, vertical lifting of heavy loads in fixed locations (e.g., industrial or warehouse settings).
Lever Hoist: More versatile and portable, ideal for pulling, lifting, or tensioning loads in various directions, especially in remote or outdoor settings.

The choice between the two depends on the specific task at hand and whether you need mobility, versatility, or the ability to handle larger loads.