Many people may not know the difference between cranes and hoists. While there are many differences between these two mechanisms, the main one is in how they operate. Cranes are much more mobile and flexible than hoists and are often capable of handling heavier loads.
However, because they’re used for many of the same purposes and applications, people often make the mistake of using them interchangeably. Here, we will go over the differences to help you decide which works better for your El Paso project.
If you require a crane or hoist system, the team at Wisco Supply is here to help. Contact us online or call (915) 544-8294 to learn more about our products.
What is a Crane?
Cranes, also known as overhead cranes because they operate above the workplace, are very comprehensive machines. Overhead crane systems are designed to lift and move heavy items and loads from one place to another. They have the ability to move up and down or from side to side, depending on your needs.
There are many different types of crane systems, and they’re all designed to increase safety and efficiency in your workplace. They’re often used in factories, warehouses, and distribution centers.
What is a Hoist?
As with crane systems, hoists are also designed to lift heavy items and increase safety and efficiency in the workplace. However, unlike cranes, hoist systems can only raise and lower these items and don’t have the ability to move from side to side. As such, you have to be more particular about where you situate hoist systems because they’re less mobile and flexible.
What’s the Difference Between the Two?
Now that you have a better idea of what crane and hoist systems are, let’s look at the difference between the two.
Mobility Options
The main difference between a hoist and a crane is in how they move. Crane systems can move things vertically and horizontally, while hoist systems can only move things vertically. Therefore, if you need more movement options and mobility, you should choose a crane.
Their Components
The second key difference between crane and hoist systems is in how they operate and the components they use. Crane systems use a hoist to move things up and down and a bridge and trolley system to move things from side to side. Hoist systems, on the other hand, use a suspension, lifting mechanism, and power component to lift things up and down. Therefore, crane systems have more components and working parts.
How They’re Classified
Finally, cranes and hoists are classified in different ways to differentiate between the different types of systems. Here are the different types of crane systems.
- Monorail cranes
- Under running cranes
- Top running cranes
- Gantry cranes
Here are the different ways that hoist systems are classified.
- Based on their suspension.
- Based on their power source.
- Based on their lifting medium.
Do I Need a Crane or a Hoist?
By noting the differences between hoist and crane systems, you can choose the best system to fit your needs. While either one can handle massive loads and weights and is sure to improve your workplace, it’s important to choose the right machine for your specific needs. The main criteria should be based on if you need to move things vertically and horizontally or just vertically. Contact us for our professional opinion about which system would serve you best.
Contact Wisco Supply for All Your Crane and Hoist Needs
Whether you need a crane or a hoist for your workplace, look no further than Wisco Supply Inc. We’re an industry leader in El Paso when it comes to all types of cranes and hoists and are sure to have what you need. We can customize our cranes and hoists to meet your needs so that you can increase workplace efficiency and productivity. Contact us online or call (915) 544-8294 for a full list of products or to schedule a consultation.
