7.4.1 Hand Operated Plate Sided Winch

The hand operated plate sided winch, also known as the contractor’s winch, is a foot mounting and is designed to be bolted to a firm foundation. This type of winch is used for general lifting and pulling operations and is ideal in situations where no power supply is available.

The design permits the wire rope to be taken off the drum either vertically downward or horizontally. Generally available in a range of capacities up to 10 tonnes, these winches have two operating handles, allowing for two or more operatives. They may have two speeds of operation; the fast speed is not suitable for use under load but allows the rope to be positioned quickly; the slow speed is then used to raise or lower the load. These winches are fitted with a band brake and the drum is also fitted with a ratchet and manual/gravity pawl mechanism. Operation is from the side of the winch. Rope drum storage capacities vary between 80 metres and 150 metres. (See Figure 7.4.1-1 )