Electric Chain Hoist for Gravity Take-up of Conveyor Systems

Conveyor System in Steel Plants

A conveyor system is a mechanical assembly for transporting material quickly and efficiently. It consists of two or more pulleys (driver and idler) and a belt connecting them, usually powered by a motor, gravity, or manually. Not only does it facilitate faster movement of material from A to B, but it also significantly lowers labor expenses. Some of the important system specifications are Load Capacity per Unit Length, Flow Rate, Rated Speed, Throughput, Frame Shape, and Drive Location

The operating conditions of a conveyor system fluctuate wildly from start-up to switch off, with varying loads. It is paramount that the take-up tension on a belt is optimal for all conditions. A take-up device usually supplies the required tension and a mechanism to adjust the length of the belt, to nullify stretching and ensure continuity of transport. There are multiple take-up devices for conveyor actuation – Gravity Tower / Counterweight, Hydraulic, Manual Winch, Electric Winch, and more.

How Counterweight is Used

Vertical gravity take-up is an automatic take-up method where gravity generates all the tension. The take-up pulley with an attached counterweight is installed below the conveyor. This counterweight supplies the optimal tension in the conveyor system. It requires periodic maintenance to guard against mechanical wear and tear. There are other ways to perform the maintenance and lift the counterweight, which warrants the use of lifting equipment like a winch, mobile crane, wire rope hoist, or an electric chain hoist.

Electric Chain Hoist (ECH)

The advantages of an electric chain hoist are that it is inexpensive compared to a mobile crane or other hoisting methods. The KITO ECH, in particular, offers the following benefits

  • Takes Less Effort – Because of its push-button control, it is extremely hassle-free compared to manually operated hoists. It’s extremely robust and durable and mitigates the risk of accidents on the site.
  • High Load Capacity – It can handle heavy loads without breaking down and ensures smoothness of operations, guaranteeing a top-notch performance and output.
  • Occupies Less Space – It affords up to 60% more space compared to conventional wire rope hoists because of its compact form.
  • Requires Less Maintenance – Because of its enclosed body, it saves maintenance hassles.

How ECH can help counterweight maintenance

The KITO ECH is enclosed on all sides by an aluminium die-cast body for superior dust protection. Even the chains have a smooth surface to facilitate easy dust removal. Make sure to lubricate it for higher durability and better performance. Since it does not require a rope drum to provide additional lift height, its body remains the same for any chain length making it compact. The fail-safe DC electromagnetic brake comes with a massive 10-year warranty and guarantees maintenance-free one million cycles.

You can find out more about our industry-leading ECH solutions here.

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