Wire rope hoists vs chain hoists: how to make the right choice

To properly answer these questions, it’s important to understand the differences between these two types of lifting equipment and determine for which applications they are designed. In this article, we’ll explore the applications suited to chain hoists versus wire rope hoists, as well as the differences in terms of maintenance and price.

Wire rope or chain hoist? The application will determine.

The choice of hoist type should not be based on the type we already use, or the one we prefer. Nor should it be determined by the supplier’s available or preferred product line. It should be the specific application that guides the choice. From the outset, wire rope hoists are not better than chain hoists, and vice versa. It’s a question of identifying the type of equipment you need for your application. It’s your lifting expert’s job to understand your application so he or she can advise you on the right equipment.

The first factor to consider is the lifting capacity. As a general rule, if you need to lift loads over 7,500 kg with a single hoist, you should choose a wire rope hoist. Conversely, for loads under 2,000 kg, a chain hoist is usually the better option. For capacities between 3,000 kg and 5,000 kg, both options are common, so it’s normal to wonder which one is the better choice.

Speed is also an important factor. For example, for regular loading/unloading operations in a production setting, the wire rope hoist will be preferable because of the greater speed options available.

However, in terms of flexibility of approach with the hook, whether at horizontal or vertical ends, the chain hoist is often more advantageous. The small footprint of the hook allows it to get lower and enter tight spaces, such as the heart of an engine, which is ideal for industrial mechanics. For precise vertical lifts, chain hoists are ideal, as they are designed for “true vertical lift”, enabling the hook to rise without deflection. However, for precise horizontal positioning, wire rope hoists offer a wider range of lifting speeds, enabling finer adjustments.

The table below gives you a quick overview of the main differences between the wire rope hoist and the chain hoist.

What’s the difference in price and maintenance costs?

A chain hoist is generally more affordable to purchase because it has a simpler design, using a gear mechanism instead of a grooved machined drum. A wire rope hoist, on the other hand, often includes sensors and electronic components that increase its cost. On average for a 5 000 kg capacity wire rope hoist, you can expect to pay an additional $3,000 to $4,000 more than for a chain hoist.

When it comes to choosing a lifting solution, you need to consider not only the purchase price of the equipment, but also the maintenance costs. If, after a thorough analysis of your needs, both options are equal, the price of the equipment and its maintenance may influence your decision. In terms of maintenance costs, chain hoists are pretty similar to wire rope hoists, as well as their service life. For example, although the lifting chain is more expensive than a wire rope, it can last up to 30 times longer.

Common questions

Does the chain of a hoist cause judder when lifting the load?
A chain jump is usually caused by a maintenance problem. Like any other high-risk situation, you should always maintain your equipment properly. But load movement during ascent or descent is rarely the result of using a chain hoist. Other factors, such as beam deflection, have a greater impact.

Are wire rope hoists more reliable ? 
Wire rope hoists may be more common, but that doesn’t mean they’re more reliable. Here are a few reasons why wire rope hoists are more common :

1. More applications require wire rope hoists.
2. Standard wire rope hoists can lift larger loads.
3. In the past, chain hoists were less available
4. Some suppliers may not have access to a range of industrial-grade chain hoists.

Are chain hoists noisier ?
This depends on the brand and quality of the equipment. For example, a Stahl wire rope hoist and its chain equivalent have similar noise levels (74-76 dB at 1 meter distance)

In conclusion, the wire rope hoist is not superior to the chain hoist, and vice versa. It all depends on the application and your specific needs. Knowing the differences between these two types of equipment will help you make the right choice.

To talk to our specialists about the hoist best suited to your needs, fill in the form at the bottom of the page.