Before using a running electric hoist for lifting and lowering operations, a thorough inspection is crucial to ensure safety and optimal performance. Here’s a detailed checklist of key components and aspects to verify:

1. Structural Integrity & Physical Condition

Hoist Body & Frame:

Check for cracks, deformations, or corrosion on the housing, frame, and mounting brackets.

Ensure all bolts, nuts, and fasteners are tightened to the specified torque.

Load Chain/Wire Rope:

Inspect for kinks, twists, broken strands, or excessive wear (e.g., reduced diameter).

Verify the chain/rope is properly seated in the sprocket/drum and moves smoothly.

Replace if any defects are found (e.g., 10% reduction in wire rope diameter or visible damage to chain links).

Hooks:

Check for cracks, bends, or excessive wear on the hook throat, tip, and safety latch.

Ensure the safety latch functions properly and is not deformed.

Replace hooks if the throat opening exceeds 15% of the original size or if cracks are visible.

2. Electrical Components & Safety Devices

Power Supply & Cables:

Verify the voltage matches the hoist’s rating (e.g., 380V/50Hz for industrial models).

Inspect power cables for fraying, insulation damage, or exposed conductors.

Ensure the grounding connection is secure to prevent electric shock.

Limit Switches:

Test upper and lower limit switches by operating the hoist to the extreme positions.

Confirm they cut off power automatically to prevent overtravel (e.g., chain/rope from running off the drum).

Emergency Stop Button:

Press the emergency stop button to ensure it immediately halts all motion.

Reset the button and verify normal operation resumes.

Overload Protection:

Check if the hoist is equipped with an overload limiter (e.g., electronic or mechanical).

Test the device by attempting to lift a load slightly above the rated capacity (if safe to do so).

Brake System:

Perform a no-load test: Lift a light load and release the control. The hoist should hold the load without slipping.

Inspect brake pads/linings for wear and replace if thickness is below the manufacturer’s minimum.

3. Mechanical & Moving Parts

Reducer (Gearbox):

Listen for unusual noises (e.g., grinding, clunking) during operation, which may indicate worn gears or bearings.

Check for oil leaks around seals or gaskets.

Ensure lubrication levels are adequate (refer to the manual for oil type and fill level).

Motor:

Verify the motor runs smoothly without vibrations or excessive heat (use an infrared thermometer to check temperature).

Listen for abnormal sounds (e.g., humming, screeching) that may indicate bearing or winding issues.

Running Wheels (for trolley-mounted hoists):

Inspect wheels for flat spots, cracks, or excessive wear.

Ensure wheels rotate freely on their axles and that the trolley moves smoothly along the beam.

Control Pendant/Remote:

Check buttons for responsiveness and ensure all functions (up/down, left/right for trolley) work correctly.

Inspect the cable for damage (e.g., cuts, kinks) and replace if necessary.

4. Environmental & Operational Checks

Load Capacity & Center of Gravity:

Confirm the load weight does not exceed the hoist’s rated capacity (e.g., 1-ton, 2-ton models).

Ensure the load is balanced and the center of gravity is aligned with the hoist’s lifting point to prevent tipping.

Lifting Height & Clearance:

Verify there is sufficient overhead clearance for the full lifting height, including the hoist’s upper limit switch travel.

Check for obstructions (e.g., beams, pipes) that could interfere with the load or hoist movement.

Operating Environment:

Ensure the area is free of flammable gases, dust, or corrosive substances (if the hoist is not explosion-proof or corrosion-resistant).

For outdoor use, confirm the hoist is rated for weather exposure (e.g., IP54 or higher for dust/water resistance).

5. Documentation & Compliance

User Manual & Labels:

Review the manufacturer’s instructions for any specific pre-use checks or maintenance requirements.

Ensure all warning labels (e.g., load capacity, emergency stop) are legible and in place.

Certification & Inspection Records:

Verify the hoist has a valid inspection certificate (if required by local regulations, e.g., OSHA in the U.S.).

Check the date of the last professional inspection and ensure it’s within the recommended interval (e.g., annually).

Pre-Use Test Procedure

No-Load Test:

Operate the hoist through its full range of motion (up/down, trolley left/right if applicable) without a load.

Listen for abnormal noises, check for smooth operation, and verify all safety devices function.

Light-Load Test:

Lift a load at ~25% of the rated capacity to test braking and limit switches.

Full-load Test (if safe):

Gradually lift a load at the rated capacity to confirm stability and performance.

Final Note: If any issues are detected during inspection or testing, do not use the hoist until repairs are completed by a qualified technician. Regular maintenance (e.g., lubrication, part replacement) is key to extending the hoist’s lifespan and ensuring safety.

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