3.4.2 Number of Falls of Chain

The lower capacity hoists (e.g. 500kg, 1t) lift the load on a single fall of load chain. (See Figure 3.4.1-1 a and b) Higher capacity hoists may either be of similar design but with a larger frame or may utilise two or more falls of load chain. The very high capacity hoists may utilise a combination of a larger frame and multiple falls of load chain and may even have two or more frames linked by a yoke. (See Figure 3.4.1-1 c)

The various configurations available each have their own advantages and disadvantages with regard to weight size, minimum drawn up dimension and cost.