Whether you're working on a high-rise tower or an industrial site, choosing the right building hoist (also called a construction hoist or material elevator) starts with one key question:
“How much weight can it safely lift?”
The answer depends on several factors—including the type of hoist, its motor and gearbox configuration, and your project’s specific requirements. In this article, we break down the typical lifting capacities of building hoists and what influences them.
Standard Lifting Capacities
Most modern rack-and-pinion building hoists fall into these standard capacity ranges:
| Hoist Type | Typical Lifting Capacity |
|---|---|
| Single cage SC100 | 1,000 kg (1 ton) |
| Single cage SC200 | 2,000 kg (2 tons) |
| Double cage SC200/200 | 2,000 kg per cage |
| Heavy-duty hoists | Up to 3,200–3,500 kg |
“SC” refers to "construction elevator" in international naming standards. For example, SC200/200 means two cages, each capable of lifting 2,000 kg.
What Determines Lifting Capacity?
1. Motor Power
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Larger motors (e.g., 15–30 kW) can lift heavier loads.
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More powerful motors = more torque = more lifting strength.
2. Gearbox & Pinion Strength
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A heavy-duty gearbox and hardened pinion gears help transfer torque efficiently and withstand high loads without failure.
3. Cage Structure & Floor Space
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A stronger cage frame and reinforced platform design allow for higher load ratings.
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Hoists designed for materials (vs. personnel) may allow higher capacities but slower speeds.
4. Rack and Mast System
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The mast must handle the total weight, including dynamic forces during movement.
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Taller hoists may limit load to reduce structural stress and improve safety.
5. Control System
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VFD systems help manage acceleration and deceleration smoothly, preventing overload spikes.
Typical Use Cases by Capacity
| Load Capacity | Common Uses |
|---|---|
| 1,000 kg | Light materials, small crews, renovation work |
| 2,000 kg | General site transport for tools & personnel |
| 3,000+ kg | Heavy equipment, prefabricated elements |
Don’t Forget: Safety Load Limits
Every building hoist includes a maximum rated load—but never load a hoist to 100% of its limit during regular use. Always consider:
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Wind conditions at height
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Load distribution in the cage
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Load sensor calibration
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Real-time weight monitoring
Most hoists have an overload protection system that prevents operation if the load exceeds safety limits.
Final Thoughts
The lifting capacity of a building hoist is more than just a number—it's a key part of your safety strategy and job site productivity. From 1-ton light-duty lifts to 3.5-ton heavy-duty solutions, modern hoists come in many sizes to suit different applications.
When choosing a hoist, always consider:
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How much weight you need to move
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How often you’ll operate the hoist
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How high you’ll need to lift