Air Hoist in Melbourne & Sydney for Sale - Compare Prices & Suppliers

What is an air hoist and how does it work?

An air hoist is a type of lifting equipment that uses compressed air to power its operations. It works by using a pneumatic motor to rotate a drum or chain pulley system, which in turn lifts and lowers the load attached to the hoist. The compressed air is supplied to the motor via a hose, and the hoist can be controlled through a pendant or remote control. Air hoists are commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and mining due to their ability to lift heavy loads with ease and precision. They are also preferred in hazardous environments where the use of electric hoists may pose a safety risk.

What weight capacity do I need for my application?

However, the weight capacity needed will depend on the weight of the load being lifted. It is important to choose an air hoist with a weight capacity that is greater than the weight of the load to ensure safe and efficient operation. Consult with a professional or the manufacturer of the air hoist for specific recommendations.

What is the difference between a wire rope and a chain hoist?

Wire rope and chain hoists are both types of lifting equipment used to lift and move heavy loads. The primary difference between them is the type of lifting mechanism they use.

A wire rope hoist utilizes a steel cable or wire rope as the lifting medium. The wire rope is wound around a drum, which is rotated by an electric motor or manual power. As the drum turns, the wire rope is either wound up or unwound, depending on the direction of rotation, causing the load to be lifted or lowered.
A chain hoist, on the other hand, uses a chain as the lifting medium. The chain is wound around a set of gears and sprockets, which are rotated by an electric motor or manual power. As the gears and sprockets turn, the chain is either wound up or unwound, causing the load to be lifted or lowered.
Both wire rope and chain hoists can be powered by electric motors, air motors, or manual power. However, air hoists are a separate type of lifting equipment that use compressed air to power the lifting mechanism. Air hoists can be either wire rope or chain hoists, but they use air motors instead of electric motors or manual power.

In general, wire rope hoists are better suited for heavy-duty lifting applications that require high lifting capacities and long lifting heights. Chain hoists are better suited for lighter loads and shorter lifting heights. Air hoists are ideal for use in hazardous environments where electric motors could pose a safety risk.

What type of air compressor do I need to power my air hoist?

To power an air hoist, you will need a suitable air compressor that can provide the necessary air pressure and volume required by the hoist. The type of air compressor you need will depend on the specific requirements of your air hoist, including its maximum lifting capacity, the length of the lift, and the frequency of use.

Generally, air hoists require compressed air at pressures ranging from 80 to 150 PSI and air volumes ranging from 20 to 50 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute). Therefore, you will need an air compressor that can deliver these pressure and volume requirements consistently.
For smaller air hoists or light-duty applications, a portable or stationary piston compressor may suffice. However, for larger air hoists or heavy-duty applications, a rotary screw compressor may be more suitable, as it can provide higher air volumes and operate continuously without overheating.

It is essential to choose an air compressor that is compatible with your air hoist and provides sufficient air pressure and volume to ensure safe and efficient lifting operations. Consult with a qualified air compressor supplier or manufacturer to determine the right type and capacity of air compressor for your specific air hoist requirements.

Can an air hoist be used in hazardous environments?

An air hoist can be used in hazardous environments, provided it is designed and certified for use in such environments. Hazardous environments are those that contain flammable gases, vapors, or dust that could potentially ignite and cause an explosion or fire. In these environments, special precautions must be taken to ensure that all equipment is properly designed, installed, and maintained to prevent any ignition sources. Air hoists that are designed for use in hazardous environments are typically made with special materials, such as spark-resistant metals, and are equipped with safety features like explosion-proof motors and electrical components. It is important to always consult with the manufacturer or a qualified engineer to understand the specific requirements for using an air hoist in a hazardous environment.

What safety features should I look for in an air hoist?

Air hoists are used in various industries to lift and move heavy loads. Safety is a critical aspect when it comes to choosing an air hoist. Here are some safety features to look for when selecting an air hoist:

Overload protection: An air hoist with overload protection can detect when the load exceeds the maximum weight capacity and stop the hoist from lifting the load. This feature helps prevent accidents caused by overloading the hoist.
Emergency stop: An emergency stop button should be located in a visible and easily accessible location. This feature allows the operator to stop the hoist immediately in case of an emergency.
Limit switches: Limit switches are used to stop the hoist automatically when the load reaches a certain height. This feature prevents the hoist from lifting the load too high, which can cause damage or accidents.
Anti-drop device: An anti-drop device is a safety feature that prevents the load from falling in case of a malfunction. This feature is especially important when lifting heavy and valuable loads.
Self-locking brake: A self-locking brake is a safety feature that locks the hoist when it is not in use. This feature prevents the hoist from accidentally lifting the load due to a power outage or other malfunctions.
Chain container: A chain container is a safety feature that stores the chain when the hoist is not in use. This feature prevents the chain from dangling and causing accidents.
Corrosion-resistant materials: Air hoists used in harsh environments should be made of corrosion-resistant materials to prevent rust and other damages that can affect the hoist's functionality and safety.

Overall, it is important to choose an air hoist with safety features that match your specific application and environment.

What maintenance is required for an air hoist?

Maintenance typically includes checking and replacing lubricants, inspecting and replacing worn or damaged parts, and performing regular cleaning to prevent buildup of debris and contaminants. It is also important to follow manufacturer guidelines and recommended maintenance schedules to ensure the longevity and safe operation of the air hoist. Regular inspections and preventative maintenance can help identify potential issues before they become serious problems, and can help extend the life of the hoist while reducing the risk of accidents or equipment failure.

Can an air hoist be used for lifting people?

An air hoist can be used for lifting people, but only if it is specifically designed and certified for human lifting. Standard air hoists are not recommended for lifting people because they are not equipped with safety features that are necessary for human lifting, such as emergency stop buttons, safety brakes, or overload protection. Additionally, human lifting requires a higher level of safety and reliability than lifting inanimate objects. Therefore, it is important to consult with a qualified safety professional before using an air hoist for lifting people.

What is the warranty on an air hoist and what does it cover?

The warranty on an air hoist can vary depending on the manufacturer and model. Generally, the warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for a certain period of time, such as one year or more. Some manufacturers may also offer extended warranties or additional coverage for certain parts or components.

The warranty typically covers repairs or replacement of parts that are found to be defective due to manufacturing defects or faulty materials. It may also cover labor costs for repairs, as well as shipping or transportation costs for returning the hoist to the manufacturer or authorized repair center.
However, the warranty may not cover damage or failure due to misuse, abuse, or neglect of the hoist, or from improper installation or maintenance. It may also have limitations on certain types of use, such as in hazardous or extreme environments.

It is important to read the warranty terms and conditions carefully before purchasing an air hoist, and to follow the recommended maintenance and operating instructions to ensure that the warranty remains valid.

What is the lead time for delivery of an air hoist in Australia?

It is recommended to check with specific suppliers or manufacturers for the most up-to-date information on lead times.