What Should Be Done If the Contactors of an Electric Hoist Burn Out?

When it comes to the easily damaged contactor contacts of electric hoists, many people find it distressing. Even with advanced technology today, there hasn’t been a more suitable alternative developed for contactor contacts. To avoid burnout, users can only pay close attention to proper usage and maintenance.  

Causes of Contactor Contact Burnout

1. Frequent Starting and Stopping: The motor of an electric hoist is designed for frequent starts and stops, leading to high-frequency switching of the contactor contacts. Each switch generates arcs between the contacts. If these arcs are not effectively controlled, they can cause the contacts to burn out.  

2. Overcurrent: When lifting heavy loads, an electric hoist may experience overcurrent, especially during startup, where the current can far exceed the contactor’s designed maximum capacity, resulting in contact burnout.  

3. Poor Contactor Quality: If the contactor used in the electric hoist is of substandard quality, its contact materials may not withstand the high temperatures generated by frequent switching, leading to premature damage.  

4. Lack of Proper Maintenance: Electric hoist contactors require regular inspections and maintenance to ensure clean contacts and reliable connections. Neglecting this can allow dust, grease, or debris to accumulate on the contacts, causing poor contact and subsequent burnout.  

Preventive Measures and Maintenance Recommendations

1. Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Periodically check the electric hoist’s contactor to ensure the contacts are clean, free from corrosion or wear. Also verify the spring tension to ensure smooth, unobstructed switching.  

2. Use High-Quality Contactors: Select reliable, high-quality contactors capable of withstanding frequent switching and corresponding current loads.  

3. Avoid Overloading: Minimize prolonged overloading of the electric hoist, which not only protects the contactor contacts but also extends the overall lifespan of the equipment.  

4. Operator Training: Provide professional training for operators to ensure they understand proper usage methods and reduce damage caused by improper operation.  

5. Install Overload Protection Devices: Incorporate overload protection devices in the hoist’s circuitry to automatically cut power when current exceeds safe thresholds, preventing burnout from overcurrent.  

6. Operating Environment: Ensure the electric hoist operates in suitable conditions, avoiding prolonged use in damp, high-temperature, or corrosive environments, which can accelerate contact damage.  

By implementing these preventive measures and maintenance practices, the risk of contactor contact burnout can be significantly reduced, ensuring stable operation and prolonging the electric chain hoist service life of the equipment.