Pneumatic Chain Hoists

A pneumatic hoist is driven by an air motor rather than an electric one, which removes the electrical ignition source entirely. That makes compressed air the obvious answer wherever powered lifting is needed in a classified area and an electric hoist would require extensive protection to be acceptable.

Two operational advantages come with it. An air motor can be stalled against a load indefinitely without overheating, so it tolerates duty cycles that would destroy an electric unit. And speed is infinitely variable from the control, which makes precise inching and load placement straightforward in a way an electric hoist with fixed speeds cannot match.

These hoists need pressure and, more importantly, flow. A hoist that lifts slowly or stalls below its rated load is almost always being starved by an undersized hose or a long run, not failing. Check the recommended hose bore and the free air consumption figure against what is actually available at the working position rather than at the compressor.

Fit a filter, regulator and lubricator. Moisture carried through the line is the most common cause of premature motor failure.

Being air driven does not by itself make a hoist suitable for a given zone, so confirm the equipment category, gas group and temperature class of the specific model against your DSEAR classification. The suspension, trolley and chain container all need an equivalent rating. LOLER thorough examination applies at least every twelve months.