A forklift is a heavy duty truck fitted with powerful hydraulic systems or with similar items, which can move, lift, and store the items or objects placed on it to the desired place. Factories, warehouses, construction companies, mining firms, car wreck companies or other organizations where there is a commercial movement of heavy materials and objects is concerned, employ the use this machine. (more…)

When you are operating any kind of crane, or you are supervising others whilst they are using a crane, you need to adhere closely to the load capacity set out for that crane and the specific hoist that is being used.

Why is this so important? Because:

• It can cause serious damage to the crane and the sling, and these are expensive pieces of lifting equipment
• It can cause serious injury. It might not seem like too big an issue to overload a lifting sling just a little, but when a load is too heavy, it will be unstable and can act unpredictably. This might mean that it will swing unsteadily, or even fall, with the potential to cause injury to people in the vicinity.

Consult the manual when using any kind of crane for the first time to make absolutely sure of the load capacity – never, ever make assumptions about the weight a crane can take.

Lifting operations continually make demands of people and of equipment: both have to be using the latest technology and processes in order to achieve the best possible lifting processes and to remain completely safe whilst doing so. A pneumatic air hoist can help with this, providing a viable alternative to manual or electric hoists. They are often used offshore for power generation, where an electric motor would not be able to deliver. At the same time, they are in no way limited to the offshore industry and you might well find them in various different industries, perhaps along a production line or in tough environments.

What is meant by pneumatic? 

Pneumatic operation uses compressed air to function. This kind of hoist may also be referred to as a compressed air hoist, or just an air hoists, which refers to the way in which they function and operate. This type of hoist can lift enormous loads, perhaps up to 100 tonnes, and will also operate in very difficult environments. They can work in high temperatures and will withstand lots of pressure, offering lifting with unlimited duty. It’s clear to see, then, why they might be used in so many different industries, and why they will withstand the kinds of conditions that are prevalent in the offshore and rigging industries.

Why choose pneumatic hoists over electric hoists? 

A pneumatic hoist can offer very fast, tailored lifting solutions. This can be useful in speeding up processes, and because the hoist can lift heavier and more unusually shaped loads, it might also be beneficial in making the processes you are utilising safer for your members of staff as well. This is a primary concern of anybody running a building site, and as such, can be a big benefit for you, making it easier for you to keep track of your health and safety processes.

How to source a pneumatic hoist 

You must first establish that this is going to be the right kind of hoist for you. Bearing in mind you know the benefits, it might be easy for you to justify it from a convenience point of view, however the costings need to be right too. First of all carry out a full cost analysis to make sure this is a viable option, so you know what kinds of budgets you are working to. You should also take into account the amount of servicing and maintenance your crane and hoist will need, so you can factor this into the budget as well.

Once you know your budgets, make sure they are realistic. This can involve finding a supplier who will be able to come down to your costs, which might also involve choosing a second hand hoist instead of buying new.

Make sure the supplier is a specialist in pneumatic hoists and they are leaders in their field. If you are buying used, then ask about the range they have and which brands they regularly stock. Ask them to keep you up to date, as stock will often come in regularly.

Buying used cranes can offer good value for money but it’s also important you get it right for the sake of health and safety. Purchasing a crane that is not up to the right standard could be disastrous and could end up causing serious injury or even a death on site. It’s essential you find the right used cranes for your needs.

Used cranes can easily be bought from reputable suppliers throughout the UK. The main thing to do is to make sure the suppliers are reliable and stock quality branded cranes that have been fully tested and meet with standards and regulations. Check the supplier’s credentials before you do anything else. Make sure they have a good reputation in the used crane industry.

The crane you buy should come with all the relevant paperwork and should have a full inspection history. You can buy quality jib cranes, vehicle mounted cranes, gantry cranes and any other type of lifting equipment.