The Different Types of Lifting Devices & How They Can Benefit Your Warehouse
Industrial lifting devices facilitate the relocation of heavy loads safely and quickly, increasing your warehouse productivity. These industrial lifting devices allow the vertical lifting of loads that manual labor is physically unable to complete. Incorporating industrial lifting devices can reduce the risk of lost time and musculoskeletal injuries, maintain stored items’ integrity, and streamline the material handling process. The following are examples of industrial lifting devices that can help improve material handling in your warehouse:
Hoists
Hoists, an example of good lifting devices, allow you to easily move material from the ground to an overhead location with a limited need for physical manpower. They can be added to equipment (such as a crane) to increase its weight-handling ability. A chain hoist offers a load capacity of up to several thousand pounds. This allows you to move a wide range of materials to your facility’s higher areas and across the warehouse faster.
There are several types of hoisting equipment available, depending on the needs of your project. A hand chain hoist is a good option for smaller warehouses or situations that require limited positioning of loads. An electric hoist uses either a chain or a wire rope combined with an electric motor that powers an internal gear mechanism to lift a load. Although they have a wide application range, they are not able to run continuously. Small electric hoists are ideal for light-duty situations, as they utilize a roller chain rather than the link chain used for heavier lifting.
Below-the-hook lifting devices attach hoists to the loads they are transporting. There are three main categories of below hook lifters: pressure lifters, supporting lifters, and gripping lifters. The specific type of material you need to move will determine which is the best option.
Portable Lifting Devices
Portable lifting devices provide flexible lifting and transporting options for your business. These mobile lifts feature a safe lifting mechanism with a capacity ranging from 330 pounds to 1,100 pounds. Portable lifting devices can also function as a work surface that adjusts to the specific height you need. Steerable caster wheels and a parking lock allow you to move the device to different areas of your warehouse. There are also low-profile manual operation models available that are ideal for handling material like pallets.
Mechanical Lifting Devices
Mechanical lifting devices are the best option for moving material at high cycle rates and faster speeds. They are ideal for multi-level situations and tend to be safer options than manual labor or forklifts to move material between multiple levels. Mechanical handling equipment is also more cost-effective than a traditional elevator.
Vacuum Lifters
Vacuum lifters can safely handle a wide range of products such as cardboard boxes or even heavy items like tires. Special pads protect the material from damage, making them ideal for situations where the material is handled repeatedly.
Industrial Manipulators
Industrial manipulators are customizable systems designed for your specific project needs to improve workplace safety and increase efficiency. These industrial lifting devices provide specific positioning options that may not be available with standard lifting equipment. The construction material is tailored to industry-specific requirements, and the manipulators can be integrated into your manufacturing assembly process.
A-Lined Handling Systems: Your Go-To Source for Lifting Devices & More
When deciding which types of lifting devices are right for your warehouse, it’s important to consider the type of inventory you handle and the specifications of your space. Contact A-Lined Handling Systems today at (860) 289-1571 to learn more about how our lifting devices can improve your workplace safety and increase warehouse efficiency!