An air hoist is a mechanical lifting device used in various manufacturing and other industries to lift objects like machinery or raw materials. It consists of a pulley, held together by a chain that also helps the user to pull easily by hand.
The load is basically raised with the air hoist and the closed chain is used to pull it across. They are mainly helpful in improving the productivity of the worker and reduce fatigue of employees. Some units use Kromer spring balancers for enhancing the performance of the hoist. The mechanism used in the air hoists aids the worker in lifting objects easily and continue with the tasks.
An air hoist is basically a chain device with a pulley. A chain is used for hoisting and pulling purposes. These hoists are ideally equipped with hook pivots, reduction gears and swivels. The control push button is pressure sensitive, the harder the button is pressed, the faster the operating speed.
Air hoists, which are also known as pneumatic hoists, use a rotary or piston driven motor powered by compressed air. Air passes through the system and cools the system as it operates, so it can run continuously without the risk of overheating.
These lifting equipment are ideal for an industrial and heavy-duty production environment, are ideal for high speed and heavy usage that has a constant start, and stop. They can lift up to 100 tons and are unaffected by high-heat environments. They can be used in high explosion-proof environments. Brass and stainless steel components are used to make them spark resistant.
A hoist is a cable wrapped around the pulley that mechanically lowers and transports items. They can be used to lift disabled people and in the transportation and construction industries. They are used for specific purposes depending upon the cable and power source. The main advantage of air hoists is that it can be operated in remote environments where there is no electricity. Its weight is 40-50 per cent less than electric hoists. They need very less maintenance, resistant to dust, dirt, heat, vapours, high temperatures and humidity. They work well in chemical plants, paint shops and mines.
Full trained and authorized personnel should only be allowed to operate these hoists as it is a bit difficult to control the speed of its hoisting. Most of the models come with extra safety features like load brakes, emergency stop, shock protection and hook latch and limit switch.
Regular maintenance of these devices should be done to avoid any accidents and for the long life of the equipment.
