Being able to lift correctly is essential. You only need to recall that wall notices you could find in commercial spaces advising you to “lift with your knees, not with your back, " illustrated with a corresponding stick figure to properly demonstrate how to do it.
This is important for the safety of the person doing the lifting and the item being lifted. Fortunately, the time has moved on, and we have advanced beyond needing to physically lift overly heavy things in that way.
One such method of lifting safely and efficiently is using a block and tackle, which can prove to be a simple solution for your lifting requirements.
What is a Block and Tackle?
There are many ways to lift items in commercial premises, with the best option being dependent on a number of different factors. It will be necessary to consider the location in which the equipment will be used, who will be using it and the weight and position of the load to be lifted.
A block and tackle – which is also known as a chain block or chain hoist – is suited to a limited area that can accommodate the installation of the block, which will need to be bolted in place.
It is a piece of equipment that is – in short – a pulley system that makes it easy to lift heavy items without the need for a significant amount of exertion. As its name suggests, it comprises two main parts which work together to create a large amount of force that can lift and move weighty loads.
How Does a Block and Tackle Work?
The block and tackle’s pulley system works by creating a pivot point through which the rope or chain – or tackle – can move, which makes the ability for the force to be transferred. The block must be securely fixed in place to enable the process to work as it should and allow the tackle to flow freely through the sheaves connected to the block; this is known as an anchor.
When the block is safely installed – usually to a ceiling – the operation of it is undertaken by applying force to one end of the pulley system. This is achieved by pulling on the end of the rope or chain, which transfers and increases the force that is achieved at the other end.
The increase in the force is possible as a single rope/chain can transfer to multiple others. The hook housing at the lifting end can be secured to the load for it to be lifted.
Types of Block and Tackle
There are various styles of this pulley system available, and the best one for your needs will depend on how and what you intend to lift. Fortunately, Lifting365 offer a range of blockchains to make it simple to find the right one for you.
1. William Hackett WH-C4 Manual Chain Hoists
- Capacity range from 500kg to 5 tonnes
- Height range from 3m to 12m
- Comprises twin pawl for double safety as standard
- Strong safety latches constructed from heavy-duty steel
- Hook housing held with socket head cap screws, hex head bolts and nylon insert locking nuts
- Load chain meets international standard BS EN818-7 Grade T (8)
2. Yale VSIII Manual Chain Block
- Capacity range from 250kg to 5 tonnes
- Height range from 3m to 12m
- Designed to prevent the tackle becoming titled or jammed
- Zinc plated components guard against corrosion
3. Yalelift360 MKIII Manual Chain Block Hoist
- Capacity range from 500kg to 20 tonnes
- Height range from 3m to 12m
- Innovative hand chain that rotates through 360°, allowing it to be used in any position
- Zinc plated components guard against corrosion
4. Yale lift ATEX 360 Manual Chain Block Hoists
- Capacity range from 500kg to 20 tonnes
- Height range from 3m to 12m
- Fully enclosed steel housing protects the components
- Operationally flexible, allowing it to be used with horizontal pulling
- Secure and quiet brake system
- Protection against explosion with version comprising spark resistant coating
5. Yalelift360 ITG Integral Gear Trolley Chain Block Hoist
- Capacity range from 500kg to 5 tonnes
- Height range from 3m to 12m
- Flexible enough to be used directly above the load
- Innovative chain guide ensures smooth motion
- Two beam widths available
- Easy assembly and installation
6. Yalelift360 ITP Integral Push Trolley Chain Block Hoist
- Capacity range 500kg to 5 tonnes
- Height range from 3m to 12m
- Flexible enough to be used directly above the load
- Innovative chain guide ensures smooth motion
- Two beam widths available
How Much Can You Lift with a Block and Tackle?
Like other types of lifting equipment, there is a wide variety of block and tackle types available. The one that you choose will dictate the amount of weight that you will be able to lift; you will need to ensure that you select a chain block with the correct weight capacity.
In many cases, the chain block will be able to accommodate a weight of at least 500kg and the capacity will increase from there.
No doubt, the maximum capacity will often be a bigger concern, and many varieties can lift up to five tonnes. While this will be sufficient to satisfy the needs of many commercial operators, others may need something more and will be able to seek out those varieties with a lifting capacity of up to 20 tonnes.
How Our Products Can Help You
When you want to lift loads safely, you need to use the correct equipment to be able to undertake the task. In order to achieve this, you need to know which equipment is right for you, and that is where we come in. As our name suggests, at Lifting365 we are experts in lifting and can assist in deciding on the right equipment for you.
Even if the loads are awkwardly positioned, a chain block is flexible enough to be able to assist, allowing to move heavy loads in limited spaces. You may be surprised at how much a simple piece of apparatus can do.
A chain block can be indispensable in a number of situations, whether in a static position or on a vehicle.
Feel free to contact us if you have any further queries.