When a production facility or warehouse needs to regularly lift and move heavy loads, the most practical solution is an electric hoist (also known as an electric chain hoist). This compact industrial mechanism operates reliably, requires minimal maintenance, and significantly reduces the workload for personnel.
In this article, we’ll cover:
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What a hoist is and how it works;
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Where and why it’s used;
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The different types of hoists;
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The solutions currently offered by TETIKA.
What Is a Hoist and How Does It Work?
A hoist (or electric chain hoist) is a motorized lifting device designed for vertical and horizontal load movement. It can be installed as a stationary unit or mounted on a trolley that moves along a beam or monorail.
Hoists automate processes that were previously performed manually or with simple chain blocks and winches, enabling safe lifting of loads ranging from a few hundred kilograms to tens of tons.
Key Components of a Hoist
A hoist is a compact yet complex mechanism consisting of the following main components:
Lifting Motor
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Drives the drum (in wire rope hoists) or sprocket (in chain hoists).
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Typically uses an asynchronous motor with thermal protection.
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Often features dual-speed operation: fast for lifting and slow for precise positioning.
Gearbox
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Transfers torque from the motor to the lifting mechanism.
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Modern hoists are equipped with oil-bath gearboxes that require minimal maintenance.
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The gearbox’s reliability is critical for the system’s lifespan.
Drum with Wire Rope or Sprocket with Chain
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In wire rope hoists, the rope winds around a drum for lifting/lowering.
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In chain hoists, the chain moves over a sprocket.
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The wire rope is usually steel with anti-corrosion coating.
Load Hook
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Features a safety latch to prevent accidental release.
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Heavy-duty models may include a swivel hook with bearings.
Safety Mechanisms
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Limit switches – stop movement at upper/lower extremes.
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Overload limiter – activates if weight exceeds capacity.
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Trolley travel stops – prevent collisions on the beam.
Control System
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Includes a pendant or radio remote control and a control panel.
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Operates on low voltage (24–48 V) for operator safety.
Trolley (if equipped)
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Allows the hoist to move along a beam.
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May be manual or motor-driven, often with variable frequency control for smooth operation.
How It Works
When the operator presses the “lift” button, the motor engages, transmitting torque through the gearbox to the drum (or sprocket). The rope or chain winds up, lifting the load. Lowering reverses the process.
For travelling hoists, the trolley motor activates, moving the entire unit along the beam.
Where Hoists Are Used
Hoists are essential in environments requiring reliable heavy-load handling:
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Factories – moving parts, assembling equipment, transporting materials.
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Warehouses – loading/unloading goods, order fulfillment.
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Construction sites – temporary lifting systems, structural installation.
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Service workshops – equipment disassembly and repair.
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Overhead cranes – integrated into complex lifting systems.
Types of Hoists
By Lifting Mechanism:
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Wire rope hoists – for heavy loads and high lifts, durable in harsh conditions.
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Chain hoists – simpler and more affordable but limited in height and capacity.
By Design:
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Fixed – mounted in one location.
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Trolley-mounted – moves along a beam for multi-directional operation.
By Control:
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Wired pendant (standard).
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Radio remote (ideal for long-distance operation).
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Automated systems (integrated into smart factories).
KOMAY Hoists from TETIKA: Practical Industrial Solutions
TETIKA is a Russian supplier of industrial electrical equipment, specializing in lifting systems, busbars, and automation components. Our clients include manufacturers, logistics hubs, and engineering firms.
As an official distributor of KOMAY hoists, we offer products compliant with the FEM international standard, designed for heavy and medium-duty applications.
Our Catalog Includes:
KOMAY PWL
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Low-profile wire rope hoists (3.2–20 t capacity).
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Ideal for low-ceiling facilities.
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Dual-speed lifting, thermal protection, trolley with VFD.
KOMAY PWD
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Heavy-duty hoists (up to 50 t) for overhead cranes.
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Rated for FEM 3m class (intensive use).
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Enhanced safety, braking system, reinforced suspension.
We also provide custom solutions tailored to specific needs—considering load, height, environment, and duty cycle. Our support includes technical documentation, consultations, and after-sales service.
For detailed specs, drawings, and case studies, visit TETIKA’s website.
Conclusion
An electric hoist is a compact yet powerful solution for safe and efficient heavy-load handling. While its design is straightforward, proper selection is crucial for longevity, safety, and performance.
If you need reliable lifting equipment, contact TETIKA. We’ll help you choose, supply, install, and commission the right system for your needs.
