Swiss electric chain hoist manufacturer GIS AG has launched two new lightweight D8 products, of 500kg and 1,000kg capacity, for mobile use in the entertainment sector.

As riggers continue to demand the lightest possible motors, the LPML and higher capacity LPL chain hoists are both capable of lifting over 40 times their own weight. The LPML weighs a modest 12kg (20kg with 18m lifting height) and delivers a lifting capacity of half a ton. The LPL meanwhile lifts 1,000kg, and when fully equipped for an 18m lifting height weighs in at just 39kg (23kg net weight).

The net weight of the LPML is only 12kg with a lifting capacity of 500kg. A second brake can be integrated in the housing on the existing shaft.

The hoists will be introduced as a supplement to the popular GIS D8+ motors, used for static suspension of loads over people. Hoists to the standard D8 specification may also be used for static suspension of loads, but it is essential to have a secondary suspension, such as a load arrestor, for example. The hoists are manufactured in accordance with EN14492 and DIN56950.

Erich Widmer, sales and marketing manager at GIS AG, said: “Both motors are highly robust yet still light, thanks to the aluminium housing and covers. The design of the chain hoists in accordance with protection class IP65 [as standard] protects them against dust and water. This makes them ideal for both mobile and outdoor use. They are extremely quiet running due to closed three-stage transmission with helical gearing and grease permanent lubrication.”

The LPML and LPL can be installed in conventional trusses and transported inside them if necessary.

Other standout features, Widmer said, include casehardened profile steel chain with minimum five-fold static safety; modular configuration; quick assembly and disassembly thanks to polygonal couplings; and low maintenance. He added: “In comparison to a round steel chain, the case-hardened profile steel chain offers approx. 15% more capacity with the same nominal diameter. This is one of the main reasons behind the optimisation of the net weight. The skeleton load hook with stable, guided hook safety catch and damping system offers maximum safety.”

A second independent DC spring-loaded brake can be mounted on the existing shaft in just a few steps without the need of a housing extension. Further options include low voltage control, limit switch for highest and lowest hook position, load and path measurement (LPL), trolleys, flight cases and controls. 

Thanks to the compact design, both the LPML and the LPL fit in conventional trusses. Transporting the chain hoists from one event to the next can therefore take place while still installed to save space, or in a transport case. The flight case boasts external dimensions of only 800mm x 630mm x 630mm and accommodates four LPML motors.