Do You Need Affordable Winch Hire Services?

If you’re working in heavy industry, you’ve probably come to realise how essential a good quality winch is for your business. Whether you’re working on a construction site or a large-scale offshore mining operation, having a high-performance winch system in place can drastically improve efficiency, output and, most importantly, profit. And, if you’re working to a deadline, knowing your equipment is going to stand up to the job can make the difference between a smooth process and one fraught with downtime and costly penalties. However, it’s always going to be an expensive reality to invest in heavy-duty equipment and this is no different when looking to buy a quality winch for your next job. If cost is a big deciding factor when looking for new equipment, there is a great alternative to buying your machinery outright. Instead, many are now looking to winch hiring services as a cost-effective option that doesn’t skimp on excellence. So, if you’re looking for a one-off hire or a long-term lease, winch hire services like Atlas may be able to help. With this in mind, let’s explore why you might need quality winch hire services. Winch vs. hoist Before hiring out heavy loading equipment, it’s important to know what will best suit your operation. With this in mind, it can be easy to simply believe that winches and hoists are one and the same. However, although similar in application, the two are used slightly differently and should be seen as such when deciding which you might need for the job at hand. A cable winch is primarily designed to drag an item along a relatively flat surface not exceeding 45 degrees. Due to winch equipment utilising a dynamic brake system, they are perfect for rolling weights and work especially well for jobs such as tree clearing, towing and other heavy lifting jobs along flat ground. There are a variety of winches that can be used for a diverse range of operations, especially as technological advancements and innovations have made them increasingly efficient and safe. Because of this, a quality winch hire service will be able to supply you with the perfect winch solution for your operation. Electric winch: One of the more convenient options due to their range of sizes from small shop winches to industrial models, electric winches are ideal for a majority of jobs. There is also a superior element of control when using an electric winch, allowing for a smooth stop and start. For those looking to have an even greater handle on the speed of their winch, suppliers can offer models with Dynamic Power Optimisation (DPO) allowing speeds to be easily adjusted and, with their modular design, they can be easily adapted to best fit your needs. However, electric winches may not be suitable for jobs where electricity could pose a risk and you will, of course, need a viable power source in order for your winch to work. The 100-tonne Grundowinch mentioned in one of our previous blogs is a prime example of innovation in the industry. Created to meet the heavy demands in trenchless operations, this behemoth is one of the largest electric winches on the market and only goes to show how useful an electric winch can be to your operation. Air winch: When using an electric winch is not possible due to safety conditions, air winches can be a great alternative. Although requiring more space to operate due to their need for an air receiver and compressor, they are one of the best options for heavier payloads at a relatively cheap price in comparison to other high-powered models. They are also much safer due to not relying on a significant power source. Therefore, air winches are great when working in harsher environments that may damage your winch and compromise safety. They also have a stronger pulling power making them especially good for more heavy duty payloads. A minor downside with air winches is that they can create a significant amount of noise whilst in use. The classic high-pitched whistling noise is a staple when using an air winch so if noise is a factor, there are quieter models. Specialist winch equipment and custom builds: Some professional winch suppliers will offer custom builds to fit your individual specifications. Every job is different, so having the option to find the perfect winch system for your more complex projects can be a real time and money saver. Hoists Whilst winches are good for dragging items, hoists are more primarily focused on the lifting of payloads. With a locking brake, you have far greater control over your payload, making them perfect for holding hanging weight. In much the same way as winches, you can choose from electronic, air-powered or hydraulic options to best fit your needs. These are only a few of the heavy lifting products that are offered by professional winch hire services so it’s good to understand which product is right for you. If you’re unsure about what you may need, consider the weight of your payload and what angle you are working with. However, your chosen supplier will likely have the knowledge to advise you on the best course of action to take. The importance of safety On average, there are around 64,000 non-fatal accidents in the construction industry alone every year. Working in heavy industry comes with a variety of risks that need to be avoided as much as possible. With this in mind, if you’re currently working with a winch or hoist system, you’re likely already familiar with the ‘safe working period’ of your equipment. However, if you’re not completely sure, it’s imperative to understand this in order to keep you and your employees safe whilst working as using a winch or hoist after its use by point can pose a serious risk to life. In order to give you peace of mind when using your lifting equipment, an expert supplier can offer their assistance in ensuring you’re safe on the job. Inspections and on-site testing of your equipment can ensure that you’re working at peak efficiency and quality repairs can be taken in order to minimise dreaded downtime. Aside from servicing your machinery, a specialist supplier can also offer comprehensive training to you and your employees for their products, so you’re clued up on all aspects of the machinery, from safety to efficiency. Used heavy lifting equipment Although hiring equipment can be a huge money saver in comparison to outright buying your machinery, it can still be a costly process if you’re trying to tighten your belt for the budget. For those looking to save even more money, many skip hire services will offer a range of quality products that have been used and refurbished. Supplying all of the aforementioned products and much more, second-hand winch hire can be a real money saver. Those looking for hydraulic winches, an expensive option, may find this service especially useful. Sometimes it may be easier to source specific equipment or parts rather than hiring out a full rig to fit your needs. With this in mind, winch hire services will likely have a product range for more specific client needs. Equipment such as drum trailers, anchors and shackles, and power packs are essential in the smooth running of your rig so make sure you work with a company that can quickly and easily supply you with quality goods. On-going service The sign of a truly professional winch hire company is the level of service they can provide during and post-sale. Top level suppliers will have excellent supply lines if you’re looking for more niche products and will be able to advise and support you with all aspects of hiring winch services so you’ll never be without professional assistance. Specialist winch hire services at an affordable rate In hiring a quality winch or hoist you could end up saving yourself a serious amount of money and time for your operation, so it’s important to make sure you’re working with the best. With Atlas Winch and Hoist Services, we supply top of the range heavy lifting equipment to fit all of your heavy industry needs and with our on-going servicing, from on-site testing to training programmes for your employees, you can be sure you’re working with professionals. Having two depots stationed in Scotland and Essex means we can easily supply across the UK and beyond. For more information on our great range of products and services, visit our website or get in touch with one of our branches to speak to one of our experts.