Load capacity with block
Load capacity of the unit when using an external moving block; in other words, the actual traction force developed by the hoist/winch when using such a block.
The moving block doubles the effective thrust of the device (at the cost of reducing the speed and range of movement); however, for normal operation, the remaining components of the unit (cable, drum, mechanism/motor, etc.) must be designed for increased weight. However, many modern devices (mainly hoists) are initially designed to work only with a block; and in others, these points are usually taken into account, so that in the end the load capacity with the block, as a rule, turns out to be exactly twice as large as without it. For example, a winch with its own thrust of 2600 kg, when using a block, works without problems with loads weighing
more than 5 tons(more precisely, up to 5200 kg). Although, of course, for a complete guarantee, this parameter still does not hurt to clarify before use.
The general rules for choosing a model based on load capacity in this case are almost the same as when used without a block. To move objects vertically, the unit’s carrying capacity must be at least 10–15% greater than the maximum weight of the intended load - this will provide an additional guarantee in case of malfunctions and unforeseen circumstances. Movements on horizontal and inclined surfaces have their own specifics; here it is better to refer to detailed recommend
...ations set out in special sources. And if a winch is purchased for an SUV, its pull must be at least 2 times the total weight of the car; only in this case can the resistance of mud, slush, etc. be effectively overcome.Operation speed
The speed of movement of the load provided by the hoist / winch without an external movable block (data on working with the block are given separately). Specified only for models with electric or hydraulic drive (see "Device"); for a manual drive, it makes no sense to specify the speed, since, in fact, it depends only on the user's capabilities. Also note that we are talking about working with cargo; idle speed can be specified in the specifications additionally.
When choosing according to this indicator, it should be taken into account that a higher speed (with the same carrying capacity) requires a more powerful drive, which accordingly increases the price and energy consumption of the unit, and in hydraulic models, it puts forward increased requirements for the power of the hydraulic pump. In addition, speed is not always desirable from a purely practical point of view — for accurate and smooth movement of goods, low speeds are more convenient. And with carrying capacity, this parameter is inversely related: with the same engine power, higher speed will mean less tractive effort. In light of all this, it makes sense to specifically look for a “fast” model only if this moment is of fundamental importance — for example, if you often have to move a large amount of cargo in a limited time, or if we are talking about an auto winch for off-road racing, where on every second counts.
As for specific indicators, the “high-speed” models include models where t...his indicator is 10 m / min or more. The slowest units give out less than 1 m / min — these are mainly auto winches, in which, due to this, it was possible to achieve good traction with a relatively low-power (and therefore light and compact) engine.
Also note that the use of a movable block (see "Complete set") reduces the speed of work by exactly half. So knowing the unit's own speed, you can evaluate the speed of working with the unit, even if it is not indicated separately in the characteristics.
Speed with block
The maximum speed of movement of the load provided by the hoist / winch when using an external movable block. Specified only for models with electric or hydraulic drive (see "Device"); for a manual drive, it makes no sense to specify the speed, since, in fact, it depends only on the user's capabilities. We also clarify that we are talking about working with cargo; idle speed can be specified in the specifications additionally.
For the block itself, see "Complete set". Here we note that the speed of work with such a device inevitably turns out to be half as much as without it (if work without a block is generally allowed by the design of the unit). Accordingly, if the most “high-speed” modern hoists / winches themselves give out about 14 – 16 m / min, then with blocks, even in them, the speed will not exceed 7 – 8 m / min.
When choosing by speed (whether with or without a block), you should keep in mind that speed has not only advantages, but also downsides. Firstly, with the same carrying capacity, it requires a more powerful — and therefore more expensive, heavy and high consumption — engine. Secondly, an increase in speed can adversely affect the accuracy and smoothness of movement. So it makes sense to specifically look for a “fast” model only if this moment is of fundamental importance — for example, if you often have to move a large amount of cargo in a limited time, or if we are talking about an auto winch for off-road racing, where every second.
Cable / chain link diameter
The diameter of the cable supplied as standard with the device; or, for chain traction mechanisms (see above), the diameter of the wire from which the individual links of the chain are riveted.
On the one hand, the strength of the traction element directly depends on this indicator; on the other hand, a thicker cable / chain will weigh more (ceteris paribus). It is worth noting that manufacturers usually select this parameter so that the cable / chain provides at least the claimed load capacity (see above), and often also has some margin. Therefore, paying attention to this indicator and specifically looking for a thicker chain or cable is primarily in cases where it is important to have a good margin in case of emergency situations — for example, if you have to work in strong winds and the lifted load can sway, creating additional loads.
