There are a number of differences between air balancers and chain hoists. In this article, we will evaluate those differences and the operational features that might make one a better choice for a particular Application.
Perhaps the most important difference is that air balancers offer a feature called “float,” whereas chain hoists generally do not offer any float. “Float” is a term which means that a suspended load has some freedom to be manually moved up or down from its current position, without having to activate the up or down levers on the control. All of our Tri-Motion air balancers have this range of “float” see full line of air balancers.
Air balancers operate on compressed air, which is naturally very elastic. This elasticity provides some freedom for a load suspended by an air balancer to be manually moved up or down, or float. Chain hoists are usually powered by electric motors and gear boxes, an arrangement which generally does not provide any float at all.
Of course both air balancers and chain hoists can move a suspended load up or down by activating the up and down levers on the control. However, trying to obtain a very precise position of a suspended load by repeatedly using the up and down levers can require many more steps than simply floating the load into position as can be done with an air balancer.
Our lift assist devices are proven quality, made in USA construction and preferred in the industry for over 35 years. We look forward to working with you on your next air balancer application!