Cable hoists manufacturers have designed many cable hoists for highly specific uses. For example, large weights and lift cycles require heavy duty cable hoists and cable winch hoists. If portability is an issue, manual cable hoists are easy to transport and set up.

Determining the exact function of your cable hoist will narrow your choices considerably. Different types of cable hoists are capable of lifting weights from 100 lbs to 100 tons. To choose the appropriate hoist consider the following:

1. What is the maximum weight you expect the cable hoist to lift?
   
   
2. At what speed do you need this weight lifted?
   
   
3. What are your normal lift lengths?
   
   
4. What is your average duty cycle?
   
   
5. Will a package cable hoist or a built-up cable hoist best meet these requirements?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Determine which cable hoist is right for you

There are industry standards and codes designed to help you choose the best electric cable hoist or manual cable hoist for your needs.

I recommend: The Material Handling Industry of America (MHIA) offers a document to help choose the most economical hoist for your project. It may be downloaded for free or purchased in book form for a small price. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) offers the codes and standards for a variety of electric hoists. These publications are also available for immediate download in PDF format or may be ordered in printed book form.

Choose the best package hoist for your needs

If your weight capacity is between 500 lbs and 30 tons, your speed and lift ranges are average and you need only standard duty cycles, a package hoist may meet your needs. Most electric cable hoists and cable winch hoists are this type.

I recommend: ACE Industries, Inc. offers a variety of electric hoists and promises next day delivery on all orders received before 2:00 pm EST. American Crane and Equipment Corporation offers larger industrial hoist packages for projects ranging from manufacturing to nuclear.

If your needs are highly specific or atypical, choose a built-up or custom cable hoist

Some companies offer design and engineering services in addition to sale. Many package hoists may be customized by adding specialty parts.

I recommend: American Crane & Hoist offers electric chain hoists and electric wire rope hoists, with optional equipment that allow hoists to be customized or built-up to your specifications. Gorbel offers an online crane hoists resource center, and custom design and engineering services.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Choose an electric cable hoist that is reliable and familiar to your maintenance staff.
• •  If you choose an electric cable hoist, consider the safety features. Limit switches will stop the hoist in the event of an emergency and may cause less unnecessary strain on your hoist engine than the clutch type.