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Air Hoists
Air hoists, which are also known as pneumatic hoists but are also referred to as compressed air hoists, are similar in features to electric chain hoists except that the hoist is powered by a compressed air supply.
A primary advantage of an air hoist is its ability to work continuously, thanks to its 100% duty cycle. This makes it suitable for extended use and longer lifting tasks, whereas electric motors could face overheating issues.
An air driven hoist is usually supplied hook-suspended, but can also be supplied with an integrated beam trolley. They are operated by push-button pendant control or by cord control.
An air hoist is generally a more budget-friendly choice when ATEX certification is necessary. It is usually more affordable than a similar electric hoist and is better suited for tough environmental conditions. This makes it the preferred option in areas like offshore oil and gas production, the petrochemical field, and maintenance industries.
As with all lifting chain hoists that we offer, the pneumatic hoist units supplied by us are all from top-quality manufacturers; these include Red Rooster, Yale, Tiger, Hadef, JDN (JD Neuhaus) and Ingersoll Rand.
Pneumatic Air Hoist Range by Manufacturer
Yale Air Hoists
Tiger Air Hoists
Red Rooster Air Hoists
Hadef Air Hoists
JDN Air Hoists
Ingersoll Rand Air Hoists
All Air Hoists
Air Hoist Accessories
To keep your hoist running smoothly, in most cases (some lubrication-free hoists are on offer), you will need an FRL (filter, regulator, lubricator) between your air hoist and its air supply. FRL's are not included as standard, and neither are air hoses, but they can be supplied if required.
We understand that some customers may have unique needs when it comes to their equipment. Therefore, we offer the option to provide certain models of our air-driven hoists with specialised hose connectors if that is what you require. If you have specific specifications in mind, please let us know, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
Mechanical airflow restrictors can be supplied with some models that effectively reduce the air flow into the hoist, causing a reduction in the lifting speed. This can be particularly handy on lower-capacity hoists where the lifting speeds are far greater.
Please get in touch if you're looking for a more specialist air-powered hoist, or any non-standard options or accessories.
What is an Air Hoist?
An air hoist is a lifting device powered by compressed air instead of electricity or manual effort. These hoists are ideal for environments where safety, precision, and reliability are critical, especially in hazardous, explosive, or continuous-use conditions.
How an Air Driven Hoist Works
- Power Source: Operates on compressed air, usually 6 bar, with some models working at 4 bar.
- Mechanism: Air pressure powers a vane or piston motor, driving gears to lift the load via a chain.
- Controls: Equipped with pendant or pull-cord controls for lifting, lowering, and speed control.
Advantages of an Air Hoist
- Explosion-Proof: No electrical components - safe for ATEX-rated hazardous zones. Different and higher zone classifications are available (zone 0, zone 1, zone 2, etc.). This by far makes an ATEX air hoist the most commonly seen type of hoist in ATEX classified environments.
- Continuous Operation: 100% duty cycle without overheating.
- Variable Speed: Precise load positioning for delicate tasks.
- Durability: Resists dust, moisture, and temperature extremes.
- Safety Features: Overload limiters and fail-safe brakes included.
Air Hoist Applications by Industry
An air hoist is used in:
- Oil & Gas (offshore rigs, refineries)
- Mining (underground heavy lifting)
- Shipbuilding (marine environments)
- Manufacturing (assembly lines, heavy machinery)
- Chemical & Pharmaceutical (explosion-risk areas)
Types of Air Hoist
- Chain Air Hoists: Compact, strong, easy maintenance (our main offering).
- Wire Rope Air Hoists: Higher speeds & heavier capacities (not currently offered by Lifting Safety).
Safety & Maintenance of an Air Chain Hoist
- Inspect chains/ropes, brakes, and air filters regularly.
- Use clean, filtered, and dried compressed air.
- Stay within rated load capacity (250 kg to 100+ tonnes).
- Train operators for safe and efficient use.
Quick FAQ: Air Hoist
Q: What is the main benefit of an air hoist over an electric hoist?
A: An air-powered chain hoist or pneumatic chain hoist is safer in hazardous areas, runs continuously without overheating, and is more durable in extreme conditions.
Q: Do I need a special air supply for an air-operated hoist?
A: Yes, clean and dry compressed air is essential for performance and longevity.