Konecranes' new chain block

The KM2 block can lift 250kg (550 lb) on a single fall of chain up to 10t (11 US tons) on four falls. The six models up to 3t use one fall of chain, the 5t model uses two falls of chain, and the 7.5t and 10t models use four. The two largest models are the hardest to pull, with maximum chain pull force of 38kg. The 10t model weighs 78.5kg (173 lbs) with the standard 3m (10ft) of chain.

All models except the 250kg unit have an overload limiting device. They are fitted with galvanised Grade 80 chain, have machined chain sprockets and gears and heat-treated alloy steel hooks with inspection points.

The hoists are distributed in Europe by supply organisation Konecranes Distributed Products, based at the headquarters of Verlinde in Vernouillet, France.

Standard lifting marketing manager Pekka Päkkilä did say that the company markets products made by other manufacturers, but did not say whether KCI Konecranes manufactures the hoist or not.

“However, if the products carry Konecranes brand colours (or any other brand in the corporation) we always make sure that the products are fulfilling our high standards for quality and performance,” he said.

• The Hoist magazine survey of European manual hoist manufacturers in August omitted Verlinde’s PHR hand chain block, with lifting capacities from 250kg to 20t. The company also makes the CHR chain travel trolley in Vernouillet, France, according to Verlinde marketing manager Jean-Yves Beaussart.