When lifting heavy objects with a hoist, a hoist ring is typically used. Consisting of a thick and durable looped piece of metal, it works in conjunction with a hoist. The hoist ring is mounted to the object, after which the hoist can lift it. The hoist will feature a chain or rope that connects to the hoist ring. Once connected, the hoist can raise the chain or rope to lift the object. There are two primary types of hoist rings, however: swivel and pivoting. What’s the difference between swivel and pivoting hoist rings?
What Is a Swivel Hoist Ring?
A swivel hoist ring is a type of hoist ring that’s characterized by a swiveling action. It’s able to turn on its axis, essentially swiveling while mounted to an object. Swivel hoist rings feature a stationary mounting unit, such as a screw, that doesn’t move. Around this stationary mounting unit, though, is a looped piece of metal that’s able to turn on its axis.
Many companies prefer swivel hoist rings because they protect against tangles and knots. When an object is secured to a hoist via a swivel hoist ring, it will swivel freely while being lifted. Therefore, the chain or rope won’t wrap around itself. Even if the lifted object moves in the air, the chain or rope will remain straight. Other types of hoist rings may cause the chain or rope to wrap around itself. Swivel hoist rings are protected against this phenomenon thanks to their swiveling action.
What Is a Pivoting Hoist Ring?
A pivoting hoist ring, on the other hand, is a type of hoist ring that’s characterized by a pivoting action. It doesn’t turn on its axis. Rather, a pivoting hoist ring is only able to pivot forward and backward. They still feature a stationary mounting unit, but the surrounding piece of looped metal is only capable of moving back and forth. It can’t turn all the way around on its axis.
Pivoting hoist rings can work in hoisting applications as well. Since they don’t swivel, they are exposed to less stress than their swivel counterparts.
Not all hoisting applications will result in a tangled chain or rope. Depending on the type of object being lifted, as well as the way in which it’s lifted, the rope or chain may not wrap around itself. In these applications, a pivoting hoist ring can be used.