What is a chain motor (chain hoist)?

A chain motor (also called a chain hoist or simply a motor) is an electric lifting device that climbs a chain to raise and lower heavy loads. In entertainment rigging, chain motors are the primary mechanism for flying truss, speakers, lighting rigs, video walls, scenic elements, and virtually anything that needs to be suspended and moved vertically.

Chain motors are driven electronically by control systems, usually these come in 8 Channel capacities, though multiple controllers are often paired together to move systems of 8, 16, 24, and even 32 motors at a time. Your Production Rigger will design the power and control system to efficiently manage all the hoists on your project as a part of their pre-production process.

Chain motors have come a long way in the last 50 years and are available with increased safety standards and specialty builds. The double brakes and specialty chains in models like D8, D8+, and C1 offer increased levels of additional safety that meet the more stringent European codes.

Motors are the lifeblood of the Entertainment Industry and every flown Production. Strict annual inspection and certification requirements are a necessary part of their use.