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A Few Tips:
Chain Hoists
- Chain hoists are intended for use in a vertical or
near vertical position only. If rigged at an angle, the upper hook
can be damaged at the shank and the throat may open up. If the gear
housing is resting upon an object while under load it can be damaged
or broken.
- Always make sure the hoist is hanging freely.
- Before using the hoist, inspect the chain for nicks,
gouges, twists and wear.
- Check the chain guide for wear.
- Hooks should be measured for signs of opening up.
- Ensure hooks swivel freely and are equipped with
safety catches.
- If the hoist has been subjected to shock loads or
dropped, it should be inspected thoroughly before being put back in service.
- Check the load brake by raising the load a couple of
inches (several cm) off the ground and watching for creep.
- If the hoist chain requires replacement, follow the
manufacturer's recommendations. Different manufacturers use different
pitches for their load chain.
- The load chain on chain hoists
is case-hardened to reduce surface wear and is unsuitable
for any other use.
- Load chain will stretch 3% before failing,
whereas Grade 8 alloy chain will stretch at least 15%.
- Load chains are too brittle for any other application.
- Any load chain removed from a hoist should be
destroyed by cutting it into short pieces.
- Never try to repair a load chain yourself. Welding
will destroy the heat treatment of the chain entirely.
Come-Alongs
- They can be used vertically, horizontally or at an angle.
- A come-along that requires the use of a cheater or
the help of another worker to move a load is inadequate for the job.
- Inspect for twisted, kinked, damaged or worn chain.
- See Chain Hoists.
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