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The chain block, commonly referred to as a hand chain hoist or block and tackle, hell people call them what they want these days, basically they are used for lifting loads too heavy for man. The block and tackle is made up of a hoisting unit which features a top hook for suspending and plenty of gears and cogs to move the chain. There is a hand chain and a load chain. The load chain features a hook at the end to attach a load and begin hoisting, the bottom load hook will usually feature a snap hook to ensure the load is safely positioned. To begin hoisting one must secure the load correctly and then use the endless hand chain to operate the hoist, pulling in one direction will turn the gears inside the hoist unit and move the chain along thus pulling the load upwards, you will notice slack load chain falling down beside your load while you hoist, this is can be bundled into a slack chain container (optional extra on premium blocks) this automatically collects the slack load chain and stores it in usually a fabric bag fitted to the hoisting unit, this can solve the issue where lifting a delicate load it can be damaged by the slack chain. Chain blocks can be suspended in a number of safe methods. A suitable beam should always be used, ideally tested and certified for lifting by an engineer capable of doing so. You then need to decide if you require your hoist to travel along the beam horizontally like a crane. If not then a static beam clamp can be used. This is a simple 'V' shaped clamp that is screwed tighter to fit the beam. If you require horizontal travel you may use a beam trolley. Beam trolleys can be supplied to operate electronically, geared or manually. Manual beam trolleys are used when lifting loads usually up to three tons, small wheels are fitted to a trolley and you can push the load along moving the trolley and hoist with it. Geared trolleys require the operator to pull on a hand chain the same as the hoist hand chain, this turns gears and they turn the wheels moving the trolley along, this is usually used on heavy loads where pushing is difficult. Electric travel trolleys are controlled via a pendant or radio remote control, left and right buttons with single or dual speed operate the trolley motor pushing it forwards or backwards. Usually powered by three phase. I full recommend buying a good quality chain block. Poor quality hoists will not feature a certificate of conformity or test certificate and are not safe for use. A great online retailer of hoists and other lose lifting gear is Lifting Equipment Store.
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Chain Block, Hand Chain Hoist, hoist, chain hoist,
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