An electric chain hoist is a powered hoist used for vertical lifting of freely suspended heavy objects as part of a material handling crane system.

In U.S. practice, hoists fall under ASME B30.16 (construction, installation, operation, inspection, testing, maintenance) and are commonly suspended from an overhead crane, workstation crane, or monorail crane as a crane component.

Compared with a manual hoist or hand chain hoist, an electric hoist provides faster, more repeatable control. If your process or bay geometry calls for cable instead of chain, wire rope hoist options are also standard.

You’ll see electric chain hoist solutions across manufacturing, warehousing, automotive, construction, and food processing—anywhere precise load handling matters.

They integrate with bridge crane lines, bridge cranes in production bays, workstation cranes in cells, jib cranes and jib cranes (articulated or fixed), gantry crane arrangements for mobile picks, overhead bridge cranes on runway beams, and even a compact davit crane for edge or hatch access—so your equipment flow stays efficient.

They’re only for objects. OSHA requires operators to avoid carrying loads over people, prohibits hoisting/lowering/traveling while anyone is on the load or hook, and restricts side pulls unless specifically authorized and verified safe.

Use purpose-built personnel equipment instead of an overhead hoist for human lifting, and keep clear zones beneath any running crane.

Site programs should include crane operator training and signage to enforce these rules.

Capacities vary by model. In U.S. catalogs, mainstream chain units commonly span from fractional tonnage up to “large-capacity” models that reach into the multi-ton range, with specific SKUs available at 20 ton. With the occasional models reaching up to approximatly 30 Tons. But usually once you are above 20 tons you move to electric wire rope hoists.

For very heavy load handling, many facilities transition to wire rope hoists under double girder crane or double girder overhead crane systems to achieve higher lifting capacity with proper duty ratings.

Always size to the heaviest load including rigging and below-the-hook devices.

Yes. Radio remotes are widely used on bridge crane and workstation cranes to keep operators clear of the load and improve sightlines.

They can be paired with your crane kit (trolley, controls) and below-the-hook tools like a lifting magnet or vacuum lifters—verify compatibility and, if applicable, hazardous-location ratings.

Match the electric chain hoist to your facility’s electrical service (the voltage, phase, and frequency available where the hoist will be powered). In North America, most hoists are built for 60 Hz and offered as 115/230 V single-phase (small units) or 208/230/460 V three-phase (industrial). 575 V three-phase is common in Canada. Order the hoist with the exact voltage–phase–frequency you have on site (e.g., 230-1-60 or 460-3-60) and have it factory-wired for that configuration when possible.

Simple 5-step checklist

1. Confirm your service: Ask your electrician or check the disconnect/MCC feeding the bay to identify voltage and phase (e.g., 120/240 V 1-phase or 208/240/480 V 3-phase at 60 Hz).

2. Specify exactly on the PO: State the required configuration (e.g., 460-3-60). Many chain hoists are dual-voltage three-phase (208/230/460); request factory wiring to your voltage so it arrives ready to install.

3. Match all components: Ensure the trolley, brake, pendant, and any control transformer are correct for your supply and the hoist’s control scheme.

4. Verify nameplates before energizing: The hoist and accessories must be labeled with the correct volts/phase/hertz.

5. Plan for mismatches: If your bay has 480 V but your preferred model is 230 V, either order the 480 V version or use a properly sized transformer/VFD approved by the manufacturer.

Common pitfalls to avoid

• Ordering 230 V when the bay is 460 V (or vice versa).

• Receiving a dual-voltage unit that wasn’t rewired to your voltage before install.

• Mismatching pendant/control voltages or trolley motors with the hoist motor.

• Trying to run a single-phase hoist on a three-phase circuit without the right approach.

Bottom line: identify your building power first, then order the hoist—and every accessory—to match it exactly.

Measure from the suspension point to the lowest hook position required, add clearance for rigging (slings, chain, rope) and obstacles, and confirm your headroom/“hook approach” against beam depth and girder geometry.

“Length of lift” (hook travel) and “reach” (elevation difference) are defined terms—spec them correctly for monorail crane feeds, tight workstation crane bays, or a jib crane with limited headroom.

Yes. Employers must ensure operators are trained/qualified for the specific gear in use. OSHA rules for overhead/gantry operations emphasize safe practices (e.g., no routine side pulls, no travel with people under the load).

Your program should include inspections, documented procedures, and (when part of a crane installation) commissioning and periodic load testing per your site policy and manufacturer guidance.

For lighter loads, simple tasks may be assigned to a lever hoist or hand chain hoist, but training still applies to every crane hoist in service.

Single-speed units lift at a fixed rate; for delicate placement at an articulating jib crane or along a production running crane line, a multi-speed or VFD hoist lets you “feather” movement and helps avoid excessive “plugging” (rapid on/off jogging) that can wear components.

In harsh environments or where fine throttle control is needed, an air hoist (using compressed air) is another option. Choose based on part geometry, cycle time, and tolerance for precision alignment.

Prioritize ASME B30.16 compliance for hoists and follow OSHA 29 CFR 1910.179 practices where overhead and gantry systems are involved.

For electrical conformity, look for a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory listing (e.g., UL/c-UL). In hazardous (classified) areas, ensure the hoist/controls carry proper NEC Class/Division or Class/Zone ratings; in the EU, you’d look for CE and ATEX.

Where ignition risks exist, consider an air hoist (powered by compressed air) or appropriately rated electric wire rope hoists and enclosures.