How to choose a hoist or a pulley block: load capacity and use

A hoist is used to lift loads with less effort or with a motor; a pulley is used to redirect a rope or to reduce the pulling effort. For loads from 50 to 2,000 kg in the workshop or on site, look at hoists (manual or electric) and winches. Petzl pulleys, on the other hand, are designed for rope work and rescue manoeuvres, under the PPE standards: they are not workshop hoists.

The types

• Electric hoist. Lifts with a motor, at speeds of a few metres per minute (in the collection from about 2 to over 12 m/min). It saves time and effort when lifts are frequent.
• Manual hoist. Reduces the effort through gearing, with no need for mains power. It is the choice for occasional lifts and for places with no power supply.
• Hand winch. Used to pull or lift by means of a rope wound on a drum, operated by hand.
• Progress-capture pulleys. These are used in rope work: the Petzl Spin S1 and Spin L1 are progress-capture pulleys. The PRO Traxion, on the other hand, is a high-efficiency pulley.
• Pulleys and rescue systems. Products such as the Twin Release or the JAG System are designed for rope work and rescue manoeuvres.
• Ropes, brackets and accessories. Ropes and support brackets for mounting the hoist.

How to choose by job

The features to look at

Load capacity (kg). In the collection you will see values of 50, 150, 250, 500, 1,000 and 2,000 kg. Always choose a value above the maximum load you will really lift, and check that the anchor point (beam, bracket, hook) can carry the same weight.

Lifting speed. Electric hoists have values ranging from about 2 m/min to over 12 m/min. For delicate loads or precise positioning a low speed is better; if you lift a lot and often, you need a higher speed.

Efficiency. This is the percentage of the effort that actually reaches the load, after friction losses. In the data it ranges from about 71% to 97%. A high efficiency means less force needed to lift the same weight.

Sheave diameter. In pulleys it ranges from about 21 to 51 mm. A larger sheave means less rope wear and less friction.

Weight and material. Hoists weigh from a few kilos to over 17 kg; rope work pulleys are in aluminium and stainless steel and weigh from about 70 g to 1.4 kg. If you have to take them up to height, weight matters.

Standards. The data include EN 12278 (pulleys for personal protective equipment) and EN 13157 (hand-powered lifting appliances). Check the standard given on the model's data sheet, because it changes depending on the use.

Common mistakes

• Checking the capacity of the hoist but not that of the anchor point: a weak beam or bracket is the real weak link.
• Using a rope work pulley outside the use intended by the manufacturer, for example as if it were a hoist.
• Lifting with the load not vertically below the anchor point, or standing under a suspended load.
• Closing the hook safety catch badly or forgetting it.
• Not checking the rope or chain, hooks and brake before use, and skipping the periodic inspections required for lifting appliances.

Frequently asked questions

Is a manual or an electric hoist better?

Electric if you lift often and there is mains power. Manual if lifts are occasional or you work in places with no power supply.

Can I use a Petzl pulley to lift materials?

The Petzl pulleys in the collection are designed for rope work and rescue manoeuvres, and must be used only as indicated by the manufacturer. To lift materials in the workshop or on site, choose a hoist or a winch with a suitable load capacity and standard.

What load capacity should I choose?

One above the maximum load, with a good margin. If you are unsure about the type of load, ask the AMES technicians.

Are periodic inspections needed?

Yes, periodic inspections are required for lifting appliances. Before each use, visually check the rope or chain, the hooks and the brake.

You will find the models in the pulley blocks and hoists collection; if you do not know what load capacity or type you need, ask the AMES technicians for a quote or some advice.