Winch – universal traction mechanism
A winch is a lifting mechanism that is used to move cargo in vertical and horizontal planes. Regardless of the conditions of use of the winch, the principle of its operation does not change. It consists of a flexible connecting element (sling, rope, chain, etc.), which is attached with one side to the load, and the other is wound on the winch mechanism, thereby moving the load.
An externally simple device must be of high quality and reliable. Sometimes a winch needs to be used in extreme conditions, when the load on the mechanism exceeds several tons (for example, when pulling an SUV out of a ravine). To purchase a high-quality winch, you must not only have a good understanding of their model range, but also sometimes consult with a specialist.
Types of winches
Today there is a wide range of winches from various manufacturers. We will look at the main models that are used in Ukraine in 2019.
Electric winches
Such winches are used in all areas of human activity. They can operate both from a regular outlet and from the vehicle’s on-board power supply.
Advantages of an electric winch:
1. Possibility of remote control.
2. Ability to work with the engine turned off.
3. Ease of use.
4. Easy to install.
5. Durability of the structure with the possibility of using increased traction force.
The main disadvantage of such winches is the inability to work in water. Electric winches can operate on a battery for up to 15-20 minutes, after which they will need recharging.
Hydraulic winches
Hydraulic models and winches based on an internal combustion engine are less popular.
Winches powered by an internal combustion engine have little power. They can produce a force of up to 4 kN. Cable workers often use them in their work to tension cables.
Hydraulically driven winches are more popular among the population. This mechanism is powered by the power steering pump. Fluid from the vehicle's hydraulic pump is pumped to the winch motor. The more powerful the winch, the more powerful the pump should be. Professional equipment may require the purchase of an additional pump.
Advantages of hydraulic winches:
1. Ability to work underwater.
2. Increased strength and wear resistance of the mechanism.
3. Availability of a built-in power limiter.
The most significant disadvantage is that this winch will not be able to work without the engine running. Such winches are often used in tow trucks.
Hand winches
These models of winches are the most common in everyday life among the population of Ukraine. Manual mechanical winches have a low cost, which makes them an attractive purchase.
Advantages of manual winches:
1. The versatility of the model allows it to be used in any conditions. The only limitation is the weight of the object being moved and low speed.
2. Works without additional power sources.
3. The presence of an automatic lock in all models.
By design, hand winches are divided into drum, worm-drive and lever. Drum winches require attachment to a support before operation. Lever devices can move loads both horizontally and vertically over short distances.
What rope to use in a winch
Any type of cable can be used in a winch, depending on the purpose of the work. For cars, steel and synthetic ropes are most often used. There is no single answer as to which cable is best, as each one requires maintenance.
The steel cable is reliable and unpretentious, but it constantly needs to be lubricated with oil. The low price has made it popular among car enthusiasts, although we should not forget that steel fibers fray over time. A broken fiber not only causes discomfort during work, but can also cause injury.
Synthetic cable is lighter and more expensive. You need to take care of it after each use. After sand and dirt, rinse with water, and in winter, after use, the cable must be thoroughly dried. If it swells from moisture, it can damage the winch.
To purchase a high-quality cable, contact L.E.V. LTD." Our managers will answer all your questions. All company products are certified and have appropriate documentation.