6.4.7 Capacities

Electric power operated chain hoists are generally available in a range of capacities up to 10 tonnes whilst wire rope hoists are generally available in a range of capacities up to 40 tonnes. Both types are available in larger capacities from certain manufacturers and the code is not restrictive in this respect.

In addition to the size of the chain or wire rope used, the capacity of the hoist is governed by the number of falls that support the load. A large proportion of hoists are manufactured with multiple falls. The same basic power unit may therefore be used for two or three capacities of hoist, e.g. 1 tonne single fall, 2 tonne with two falls or 4 tonnes with four falls. (See Figure 6.4.7-1 )