Manufacturing facilities often need to lift awkward, unbalanced, or long heavy loads. Many work-in-progress (WIP) components used to build final products require specialized handling that can’t be achieved with just one hook. In certain applications, synchronized hoists offer safer and more efficient load movement. Here, we explore synchronized lifting solutions with both chain hoists and wire rope hoists.
Comparing Synchronous and Independent Lifting with Fixed Synchronized Lifting
Synchronous and independent lifting (S/I lifting) provides ultimate flexibility for synchronized hoist applications. With this method, two separate chain hoists work together to lift products using two hooks or can operate independently to lift single loads with one hook. Some tandem lifting applications allow the hoists to move apart on the crane bridge, while others require a link bar connecting the two hoists on the trolleys.
In fixed synchronized lifting with chain hoists, two or four hooks are positioned on a fixed structure. A single motor operates the hooks, which remain synchronized at a fixed distance apart thanks to a mechanical connection.
Fixed Synchronized Lifting with Chain Hoists
Demag’s LDC-D dual chain hoist offers a synchronized solution with two mechanically connected hooks. These hooks can operate at right angles or parallel to the track, which can be made from KBK steel or aluminum. Depending on your requirements, you can choose between standard or low headroom configurations.
With the LDC-D system, the synchronized hooks are powered by one hoist motor and connected by a drive shaft, allowing hooks to stay in sync up to 19 feet apart. The structure can be equipped with manual, powered, or articulating trolleys, offering further flexibility.
Synchronized Lifting with Four Hooks
When dealing with more complex lifting scenarios, such as awkward or oversized loads, multiple hooks provide safer, more efficient handling. Demag’s LDC-Q quad chain hoist system uses a fixed frame and four synchronized hooks, mechanically connected by a drive shaft between two chain hoist sets. This setup ensures the hooks remain in sync, and the unit can be paired with various trolley options, lifting up to 11,000 pounds.
In the food industry, one customer used the LDC-Q quad chain hoist to maintain, refill, and monitor scales for weighing nuts. The system was an optimal solution for their packaging process, requiring precise, synchronized lifting.
Synchronized Lifting with Wire Rope Hoists
For larger loads, synchronized lifting with two wire rope hoists may be necessary. When lifting long loads from two points, synchronization ensures the hoists run and stop simultaneously, maintaining alignment. This synchronization can also extend to the hoists’ movement along the crane girder, whether they are on the same or separate girders.
Programmable hoists make maintaining this alignment easy. Two identical contactor-controlled hoists can be programmed to lift in tandem using radio control, ensuring precision.
Introducing the Demag DVR Rope Hoist
Demag’s DVR Rope Hoist offers a compact, versatile solution for a range of industrial lifting applications. Available in five sizes with a lifting capacity of up to 80 tons, the DVR can be configured for standard headroom, low headroom, double girder trolley, or foot-mounted setups. It offers two-speed or variable-speed lifting, making it suitable for everyday high-performance tasks.
The DVR hoist comes with intelligent safety features such as anti-sway control and slack rope prevention. It also includes area-specific load reduction to prevent overloading in areas with structural limitations and bypass control to block the hoist from entering zones where machinery height might pose risks.
With Smart Tandem Control, you can synchronize up to four DVR rope hoists across two cranes, ensuring safe and efficient tandem lifting.
Conclusion
Synchronized lifting offers numerous benefits, making operations safer and more efficient when handling loads with two hooks or multiple connection points. Whether you need synchronous and independent lifting, fixed synchronized lifting with chain hoists, or tandem lifting with wire rope hoists, working with an experienced crane dealer ensures your application will meet both your project needs and budget.
Optimize your lifting operations with synchronized hoist solutions that are tailored to your unique industrial requirements.