How Does a Jet Hoist Work?

Overview

A Jet hoist is any type of hoist made by the Jet Industrial Company. The purpose of a hoist, Jet or otherwise, is to lift a heavy load, either by the strength of the user or through an electric motor. In both cases, the power of the hoist comes from its internal configuration of toothed gears, which drastically increase the device's lifting capacity.

Types

There are two types of Jet hoist: the electric chain hoist and the manual hoist. The manual hoist is more easily carried, often included in the load out of most tow trucks. It is composed of a heavy cable loop. Below that is a series of gears. A chain sits within the teeth of these gears, leading down to a tow hook. A lever or ratchet connects to the side of the gear assembly. An electric hoist is considerably heavier, with a solid steel housing covering the internal workings. An electric control panel extends on a cord from the side of the hoist, while a heavy chain and hook protrude from the bottom.

Function

In the case of an electric Jet hoist, the hoist must first be mounted in place. As it is used commonly in auto-body shops to lift heavy car parts, it is typically mounted against the ceiling. Inside, the gears connect to a small electric motor. The configuration of these gears is designed for maximum torque, connecting to a drum around which a chain is wrapped. When the control panel is activated, the gears turn the drum either to lower the chain and hook or raise it. Depending on the model of electric Jet hoist, it could lift several thousand pounds without difficulty. A manual chain hoist works differently. First the wire loop must be slipped around a sturdy raised bar or joist capable of sustaining the weight of the item one wishes to life. Then the ratchet is disengaged and the hook is secured to the load to be lifted. The ratchet is reengaged and the lever is pumped up and down, slowly turning the gear and reeling in the chain until the load is lifted to the desired height.