To ensure the long-term reliability and safety of explosion-proof lever hoists, a systematic maintenance approach is essential. Below is a structured guide to effective maintenance practices:

1. Daily Maintenance: Quick Checks for Immediate Safety

Visual Inspection

Exterior Condition: Check for cracks, dents, or corrosion on the housing, hooks, and chains. Pay special attention to welds and joints.

Loose Components: Ensure all bolts, nuts, and pins are tightly secured. Tighten any loose fasteners immediately.

Chain Integrity: Inspect the chain for kinks, twists, or broken links. Replace damaged chains promptly.

Functional Testing

Hand Chain Operation: Pull the hand chain smoothly to confirm the hoist lifts and lowers without jerking or binding.

Brake Test: Lift a light load (within 25% of rated capacity) and release the hand chain. The brake should hold the load securely without slipping.

Hook Inspection: Verify that hooks are not bent, cracked, or worn. Check the safety latch for proper function.

Environmental Cleanup

Dust and Debris Removal: Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean dust, oil, and debris from the hoist body and chain.

Corrosion Prevention: Wipe down metal surfaces with a clean cloth and apply a thin layer of anti-corrosion grease.

2. Weekly Maintenance: In-Depth Checks for Preventive Care

Lubrication

Chain Lubrication: Apply high-temperature, non-flammable grease to the chain links to reduce friction and prevent wear.

Gearbox and Bearings: Lubricate moving parts (e.g., gears, bearings) with explosion-proof grease to ensure smooth operation.

Load Test Verification

Static Load Test: Lift a load at 125% of the rated capacity and hold for 5–10 minutes. Check for any deformation or slippage.

Dynamic Load Test: Perform a few lift-and-lower cycles with a load at 100% of the rated capacity to ensure consistent performance.

Electrical System Check (if applicable)

Cable Integrity: Inspect power cables for cuts, abrasions, or exposed wires. Replace damaged cables immediately.

Connection Tightness: Verify that all electrical connections are secure and free of corrosion.

3. Monthly Maintenance: Comprehensive Inspection and Adjustment

Disassembly and Cleaning

Partial Disassembly: Remove covers and inspect internal components (e.g., gears, brakes, springs) for wear or damage.

Deep Cleaning: Use a non-flammable solvent to clean grease and dirt from internal parts. Dry thoroughly before reassembly.

Brake System Adjustment

Brake Pad Wear: Measure brake pad thickness. Replace if worn beyond the manufacturer’s specified limit.

Brake Force Calibration: Adjust the brake spring tension to ensure the hoist can hold the rated load without slipping.

Safety Device Verification

Overload Protection: Test the overload limiter (if equipped) by gradually increasing the load until the device activates.

Limit Switches: Check upper and lower limit switches for proper operation (e.g., stop the hoist when the load reaches the end of travel).

4. Annual Maintenance: Professional Overhaul for Long-Term Reliability

Full Disassembly and Inspection

Component Replacement: Replace worn or damaged parts (e.g., chains, gears, bearings) with OEM-approved components.

Housing Inspection: Check for cracks or deformation in the housing. Replace if necessary.

Explosion-Proof Certification Verification

Documentation Review: Ensure the hoist’s explosion-proof certification is up-to-date and valid for the intended operating environment.

Component Compliance: Verify that all replacement parts meet explosion-proof standards (e.g., ATEX, IECEx).

Performance Benchmarking

Load Test Comparison: Compare current load test results with baseline data from the previous year to identify trends in performance degradation.

Operational Efficiency: Evaluate the hoist’s lifting speed, noise level, and energy consumption for signs of inefficiency.

5. Special Maintenance Considerations for Explosion-Proof Hoists

Material Compatibility

Non-Sparking Tools: Use bronze or aluminum tools for maintenance to avoid sparks during disassembly or adjustment.

Explosion-Proof Lubricants: Select greases and oils rated for use in hazardous environments to prevent ignition risks.

Environmental Adaptation

High-Temperature Areas: Use heat-resistant materials for seals and gaskets to prevent degradation in hot environments.

Corrosive Environments: Apply corrosion-resistant coatings to metal surfaces and use stainless steel components where possible.

Record-Keeping

Maintenance Log: Document all inspections, tests, repairs, and part replacements in a detailed logbook.

Certification Tracking: Maintain records of explosion-proof certifications, load test reports, and safety device calibrations.

6. Training and Safety Protocols

Operator Training

Proper Use: Train operators on correct lifting techniques, load limits, and emergency procedures.

Maintenance Awareness: Educate operators on basic maintenance tasks (e.g., lubrication, chain inspection) to identify issues early.

Safety Precautions

Lockout/Tagout: Follow lockout/tagout procedures during maintenance to prevent accidental activation.

PPE Requirements: Wear gloves, safety glasses, and explosion-proof clothing when working on hoists in hazardous areas.

The main equipment produced by Hebei Makita: stage electric hoist, electric chian hoist, wire rope electric hoist，Hand chain hoist, lever hoist, pneumatic hoist and other lifting equipment