Chain Hoist
A chain hoist (or motor) is an electric or manual lifting device used to raise and lower LED walls and support structures. Electric chain hoists for entertainment typically lift 1/2-ton to 2-ton loads at speeds of 4-16 feet per minute. Hoists connect to venue rigging points and support truss or directly suspend LED panels.
Chain Hoists for LED Display Rigging
Chain hoists are essential equipment for flying LED walls, providing the mechanical means to lift, position, and support heavy display systems safely.
Hoist Types
**Electric Chain Hoists**
- Motor-driven with chain wheel
- Entertainment-rated with safety features
- Common capacities: 1/2-ton to 2-ton
- Speeds: 4 to 32 feet per minute
- Remote or centralized control
**Manual Chain Hoists**
- Hand-operated via chain wheel
- Lower cost, no power required
- Labor-intensive for height adjustment
- Good for dead-hang installations
**Wire Rope Hoists**
- Steel cable instead of chain
- Higher speeds, capacities possible
- Less common in LED applications
- Used for very heavy loads
Entertainment Hoist Standards
Professional hoists for entertainment meet specific requirements:
Dual Braking: Two independent brake systems
Overload Protection: Prevents operation above rated capacity
Upper Limit Switch: Stops before chain fully retracts
Lower Limit Switch: Prevents over-extending chain
Low Voltage Control: Safe control pendant voltage
D8+ Rating: Designed for entertainment lifting
Hoist Specifications
Key specifications to consider:
| Specification | Typical Range | |--------------|---------------| | Capacity | 500 lbs to 4,400 lbs | | Lift Speed | 4 to 32 FPM | | Chain Length | 30 to 100+ feet | | Power | 110V to 480V 3-phase | | Weight | 40 to 200 lbs |
Control Options
Pendant Control: Wired controller for each hoist
Chain Control: Pull chain operation (manual)
Centralized Control: Multi-hoist controller for synchronized operation
Wireless Control: Radio-controlled for convenience
Motion Control: Computer-controlled positioning
Selection Criteria
Capacity: Match to expected loads with margin
Speed: Balance setup time vs. noise/smoothness
Voltage: Match venue power availability
Chain Length: Adequate for venue height plus travel
Noise Level: Critical for sound-sensitive venues
Duty Cycle: Consider continuous vs. intermittent use
Installation
1. Attach to approved rigging point via rated shackle 2. Lower control pendant to floor 3. Unspool chain to required length 4. Attach load to hook with proper hardware 5. Test operation with no load 6. Lift load in controlled increments 7. Verify brake holding at final position
Safety Requirements
Rated Hardware: All connection points properly rated
Secondary Attachment: Safety cable backs up primary connection
Load Path Inspection: Verify all components before each lift
Training: Only qualified operators run hoists
Clear Communication: Established signals for operation
Exclusion Zone: Area below cleared during movement
Frequently Asked Questions
What size chain hoist do I need for my LED wall?
Calculate total load at each pick point including panels, truss, and hardware, then add 25% margin. A 3,000 lb point load would need a 1-ton (2,000 lb) hoist minimum, but a 2-ton provides better margin. Never exceed 80% of rated capacity.
What is the difference between entertainment and industrial hoists?
Entertainment hoists have safety features like dual braking, overload protection, and limit switches. They also run quieter, have better speed control, and meet entertainment-specific standards. Never use industrial hoists for overhead people or audience exposure.
Can I use manual chain hoists for LED walls?
Yes, for smaller walls and fixed installations. Manual hoists (hand chain or lever) are less expensive but require more labor and time. They work well for dead-hang installations where height adjustment during the show is not needed.
Related Terms
Flying
RiggingFlying refers to LED walls suspended from overhead rigging points using chain hoists, motors, and ri...
Truss
RiggingTruss is aluminum or steel structural framework used to support, hang, or ground-mount LED video wal...
Point Load
RiggingPoint load refers to the concentrated weight applied at a single rigging point when supporting an LE...
Ground Support
RiggingGround support refers to LED wall installations supported from the floor rather than hung from overh...
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