Hoists

A: The 575 VAC hoist is designed for industrial operations, offering robustness and performance for frequent lifting, over long distances or with precision. Conversely, the 120 VAC hoist, due to its configuration and limitations, is better suited for residential or occasional use. If a 575 VAC power supply is not available, consult an electrician about installing a rotary phase converter.

A: Using an electric hoist in a paint booth poses a risk of spontaneous combustion. The necessary explosion-proof equipment is expensive, and even pneumatic hoists must be classified as spark-proof to avoid any risk of explosion. For more details, see our article: Hoists for paint booths: what are the recommended solutions?

A: A hoist and a winch are both used to handle loads, but they differ in how they work and how they are used.

Hoist: Designed for vertical lifting, it uses a system of pulleys and chains or cables to lift heavy loads with precision.
Winch: Primarily intended for horizontal traction, it winds a cable around a motorized or manual drum to pull or move loads. It is often found on vehicles, construction sites, and tow trucks.

In summary, a hoist lifts, while a winch pulls.

A: A hoist is a lifting device designed to lift loads vertically. In Canada, its installation and use are governed by CSA B167. It is intended for lifting suspended loads and must not be used to move a cabin or platform between different landings.

A freight elevator is a lifting and lowering mechanism with a cabin or platform that moves between two or more landings. Its installation must comply with CSA B44/ASME A17.1 standards, which impose strict safety requirements, including safety brakes, fall protection devices, and access-limiting safety systems. The installation of freight elevators must also comply with the safety requirements applicable to elevators and be maintained by a qualified RBQ contractor in subcategory 14.1 Elevators and Freight Elevators.

In conclusion, hoists and freight elevators have distinct functions and designs. Using a hoist as a freight elevator mechanism does not comply with Canadian safety standards. For all freight elevator and material lift installations, it is essential to follow CSA B44/ASME A17.1 and verify installation requirements with the RBQ.