Chain Hoists and Wire Rope Hoists from Lifting Systems
Lifting Systems supplies a comprehensive range of industrial hoists – including chain hoists and wire rope hoists – designed to provide precise and reliable hoist lifting equipment for a wide range of applications. Our range is sourced from leading manufacturers in the industry, with lifting capacities from 125kg up to 50,000kg, covering the full spectrum from light workshop lifting to heavy-duty industrial requirements.
Chain Hoists: Versatility and Durability
Our electric chain hoists are known for their versatility, durability, and ease of use, making them a reliable choice for frequent lifting across a range of load sizes. Key features of our chain hoists include:
- Wide Lifting Capacity
- Robust Construction
- Easy Maneuverability
- Ideal for Vertical Lifting
Wire Rope Hoists: Heavy-Duty Lifting Power
For heavy-duty lifting applications, our electric wire rope hoists deliver exceptional performance and lifting capacity, particularly where higher loads, longer travel or more demanding duty cycles are required. Key features of our wire rope hoists include:
- Impressive Lifting Capacity
- Smooth and Precise Operation
- Longer Reach
- Enhanced Safety Features
Consult with Our Experts
Choosing between a chain hoist and a wire rope hoist depends on your load, duty cycle, and available headroom. Our experienced engineers are ready to advise on the right hoist type and capacity for your application, wherever you’re based in the UK.
Hoist Selection Guide: Chain Hoist or Wire Rope Hoist?
Both chain and wire rope hoists are available across a wide range of capacities, but they suit different applications. As a general guide:
- Chain hoists are well suited to frequent, shorter-lift applications where compact design, ease of use, and low maintenance are priorities.
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Wire rope hoists are generally better suited to heavier loads, longer lifts and higher duty cycles, where their greater rope length and capacity range make them the more practical option.
With lifting capacities from 125kg to 50,000kg across our range, Lifting Systems can cover the full spectrum of industrial hoist requirements. Our engineers will advise on the right product for your application following a consultation.
HOIST FAQS
What is a chain hoist?
A chain hoist is a lifting device that uses a looped chain to raise and lower loads. An electric motor drives the chain over a gear mechanism to lift the load attached to the hook. Chain hoists are compact, reliable, and suited to a wide range of industrial lifting tasks from light workshop use to heavier applications.
How does a wire rope hoist work?
A wire rope hoist uses an electric motor to wind a steel wire rope onto a drum, raising the attached load. The rope’s greater length and the drum’s larger capacity make wire rope hoists the preferred choice for heavier loads, longer lifts, and applications with higher duty cycles.
What is the difference between a chain hoist and a wire rope hoist?
The main differences are capacity, lift height, and duty cycle. Chain hoists are compact and low-maintenance, suited to frequent lighter lifts. Wire rope hoists handle heavier loads and longer travel distances, and are better suited to high-duty applications. The right choice depends on your load, headroom, and how intensively the hoist will be used.
What is the safe working load of a hoist?
The safe working load (SWL) is the maximum load a hoist is rated to lift under normal operating conditions. Every hoist in our range is marked with its SWL and must not be used to lift loads that exceed it. Our engineers will confirm the correct SWL for your application during the selection process.
Do hoists need a LOLER inspection?
Yes. Under the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER), hoists are subject to thorough examination at defined intervals – typically every 6 months for lifting accessories and 12 months for the hoist unit itself, or in accordance with an examination scheme. Lifting Systems carries out LOLER inspections on all makes and models of overhead lifting equipment.