Top 8 Electric Chain Hoist Failures and Effective Repair Solutions

September 07, 2024

Electric chain hoists are essential tools in many industries, offering reliable lifting and material handling capabilities. However, like all mechanical equipment, they can encounter issues that disrupt their functionality. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the 8 most common electric chain hoist repair problems and provide you with practical solutions to address them. Whether you’re experiencing unresponsive controls, overheating motors, or directional movement errors, this guide will help you troubleshoot and repair your electric chain hoist efficiently.

Electric Chain Hoist Failure 1: Hoist Operation Unresponsive

CauseRepair
No powerCheck the three-phase power breaker, switch, fuse, and connecting cables.
Incorrect power voltage and frequencyCheck if the on-site power voltage and frequency match the specifications on the hoist nameplate.
OverloadReduce the load to within the hoist’s rated capacity.
Incorrect, loose, or damaged internal wiringInspect the wiring according to the wiring diagram and replace any damaged cables.
Hoist motor overload or thermal protection switch activatedRefer to the section on “Motor or Brake Overheating” in this table.
Brake not releasingCheck the brake coil and replace the brake if necessary.
Check the rectifier input/output voltage and replace the rectifier if necessary.
Contactor malfunctionInspect the hoist control contactor and its connecting cables. Replace the contactor if necessary.
Emergency stop switch triggered or pendant control button damagedUnlock the emergency stop switch by turning it clockwise. Check all pendant control buttons and contacts and replace any faulty components if necessary.
Transformer malfunctionCheck the transformer for signs of overheating or burn damage and inspect the coil windings. Replace the faulty component if necessary.
Motor burnoutReplace the motor rotor, stator, or other damaged components.

Electric Chain Hoist Failure 2:Hoist Moving in the Wrong Direction

CauseRepair
Incorrect power phase sequenceCheck the power phase sequence and swap two of the three-phase power lines.
Incorrect electrical wiringCheck all wiring according to the electrical wiring diagram.

Electric Chain Hoist Failure 3: Motor or Brake Overheating

CauseRepair
Incorrect voltage or frequencyCheck if the on-site power voltage and frequency match the specifications on the hoist nameplate.
External environment temperature too highIf the ambient temperature exceeds 40℃, reduce the hoist’s operating frequency. Take measures to lower the ambient temperature, such as improving ventilation or moving the hoist away from heat sources.

Electric Chain Hoist Failure 4: Hoist Can Lift But Cannot Lower

CauseRepair
Electrical circuit for lowering is openCheck the reliability of the lowering control circuit wiring and inspect the electronic limit switch on the lowering side.
Pendant control wire contact is poorCheck the reliability of the pendant control wire core. If the wire core is broken, replace the entire pendant control wire.
AC contactor malfunctionCheck the contactor coil and wiring. Replace the contactor if necessary.
Pendant control button or contact malfunctionCheck if the pendant control button is stuck and if the contacts are faulty. Replace them as needed.
Chain jammingCheck if the chain can smoothly enter the chain box, and inspect the chain links for any foreign objects. If any damage is found on the chain or the chain guide, replace them promptly.

Electric Chain Hoist Failure 5: Hoist Can Lower but Cannot Lift

CauseRepair
Hoist overloadReduce the load to within the hoist’s rated capacity.
Low power voltageCheck if the on-site power voltage and frequency match the specifications on the hoist nameplate. Measure the voltage at the hoist input power terminal block.
Electrical circuit for lifting is openCheck the reliability of the lifting control circuit wiring and inspect the electronic limit switch on the lifting side.
Pendant control wire contact is poorCheck the reliability of the pendant control wire core. If the wire core is broken, replace the entire pendant control wire.
AC contactor malfunctionCheck the contactor coil and wiring. Replace the contactor if necessary.
Friction clutch malfunctionInspect the clutch settings or replace it.
Chain jammingCheck if the chain can smoothly enter the chain box, and inspect the chain links for any foreign objects. If any damage is found on the chain or the chain guide, replace them promptly.

Electric Chain Hoist Failure 6: Unable to Lift Rated Load or Achieve Normal Lifting Speed

CauseRepair
Hoist overloadReduce the load to within the hoist’s rated capacity.
Low power voltageCheck if the on-site power voltage and frequency match the specifications on the hoist nameplate. Measure the voltage at the hoist input power terminal block.
Friction clutch malfunctionInspect the clutch settings or replace it.
Chain jammingCheck if the chain can smoothly enter the chain box, and inspect the chain links for any foreign objects. If any damage is found on the chain or the chain guide, replace them promptly.

Electric Chain Hoist Failure 7: Hoist Drifts after Stopping

CauseRepair
Brake not engagingCheck the brake status and its “gap” value. Replace it as needed.
Hoist overloadReduce the load to within the hoist’s rated capacity.
Exceeding duty cycleLower the hoist duty cycle.

Electric Chain Hoist Failure 8: Periodic Control Failure of the Hoist

CauseRepair
Contactor contact is poorCheck if the contactor contacts are burnt and replace them if necessary.
Poor cable contactInspect all cables and terminal blocks and replace them as needed.
Pendant control button or contact poor contactCheck if the pendant control button is stuck and if the contacts are faulty. Replace them as needed.

Note:

  • Inspections and repairs must be carried out by trained professionals.
  • Be aware that the electrical components of the hoist involve high-voltage connections; take precautions to prevent electric shock, which can result in serious injury or death.
  • Always disconnect the power supply before performing inspections and repairs.
  • Clearly mark the area with “Under Inspection” signs.
  • Do not perform inspections or repairs while the hoist is under load.

By understanding and addressing these common electric chain hoist repair issues, you can extend the lifespan of your equipment and ensure smooth, efficient operations. Regular maintenance and timely repairs not only prevent costly downtime but also enhance safety in your workplace. As a leading manufacturer of cranes and electric hoists, Dafang Crane is committed to providing top-quality products designed for durability and performance. Explore our range of advanced lifting solutions on our website, and discover how our innovative hoists and cranes can meet your material handling needs with unmatched reliability.

cindy
Cindy
WhatsApp: +86-19137386654

I am Cindy, with 10 years of working experience in the crane industry and accumulated a wealth of professional knowledge. I have chosen the satisfying cranes for 500+ customers. If you have any needs or questions about cranes, please feel free to contact me, I will use my expertise and practical experience to help you solve the problem!

TAGS: Electric chain hoists,Electric chain hoists failure,Electric chain hoists repair

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