Mini Electric Chain Hoists

What is a mini chain hoist?

A mini chain hoist works on the same principle as an industrial chain hoist. The motor turns the chain sprocket, the load chain raises the hook and the slack chain collects in the chain bag. The difference is in its size and power supply. The body is small and light, and it does not need a three-phase supply. It runs on 230 V single phase and usually comes with a plug. Lifting and lowering are done from a push-button pendant. On most models a brake holds the load in the air when the motor stops, and limit switches stop the hook at its highest and lowest points. It is also sold as a small electric hoist or a 230 V chain hoist. We describe the parts of a chain hoist in our electric chain hoist guide.

Where is it used?

• Workshops and repair shops: Lifting parts onto the bench and lifting small motors and machine parts.
• Small businesses and stores: Taking crates, sacks and boxes from shelves, vehicles or a mezzanine.
• Hobby and home workshops: Lifting heavy parts in a garage or hobby workshop.
• Occasional lifting: Service and maintenance points with no three-phase supply.

How it differs from other chain hoists

A mini model stands apart for its small capacity and 230 V supply. If the load is getting heavier, the hoist will run often and for long periods, or your site has a three-phase supply, fixed chain hoists running on 400 V are the better choice. If the load has to travel along a beam by motor, see our monorail chain hoists. In the same class there are also mini wire rope hoists that run on 230 V. They are the better fit for light work with a long lifting height.

What to check when choosing

1. Capacity: The capacity on the label (for example 100 kg) must be above your heaviest load, including slings and attachments.
2. Lifting height: The chain must be long enough for the distance the hook travels up and down.
3. Duty rating: Mini hoists are mostly made for intermittent use. The duty rating on the label shows how long the motor can run and how long it must rest within a set period.
4. Suspension point: The hook, beam or bracket the hoist hangs from must easily carry the weight of the hoist and the load.
5. Power: You need an earthed socket. The pendant and power cables must be long enough to reach the work area.
6. Portability: Thanks to its light body, the hoist can be taken down and moved to another suspension point when needed. Every new suspension point must be checked again.

Mini chain hoist prices

The price depends on capacity, lifting height, lifting speed, body design and extras such as a trolley. A longer chain also needs a bigger chain bag, and this shows in the price. Just tell us on WhatsApp what you need to lift and how heavy it is.

Safe use and maintenance

• Never exceed the capacity on the label. A mini hoist is made for light work.
• Lift the load straight up. Do not pull it sideways or drag it along the floor.
• Never use a mini hoist to lift people. No one should stand under the load.
• Check the chain, hook and safety latch before each use. Keep the chain clean and lubricated.
• If the motor gets hot, let the hoist rest. Do not force it.
• Protect the pendant cable from crushing, sharp edges and water. Unplug the hoist when the job is done.

We service mini chain hoists from our base in Tuzla. Mini hoists used at work are lifting equipment too, and in Turkey they must have a periodic inspection at least once a year. For more rules, see our hoist safety rules.