Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
What is the difference between a winch and a hoist?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably in the industry, there are important differences:
Hoists are designed to both lift AND lower loads safely. They typically have:
- Load-holding brakes adequate to control lowering
- Larger drum core diameters relative to line size
- Larger diameter line for suspended loads
- No freespool or freefall features
Winches are designed primarily to pull loads, not suspend them. They typically feature:
- Brakes designed for holding, but not controlled lowering
- Freespool to disengage the drum from the gearing to allow manual payout of the winch line
- Smaller drum core diameters relative to line size
- Designed for loads that remain supported during operation
Critical Note: Using a winch to lift suspended loads can be dangerous. If the brake fails or freespool is accidentally engaged, the load can drop or cause the drum to spin backwards at high speed, creating a catastrophic situation. Always use a hoist for lifting applications where the load will be suspended.
Do you sell directly to customers or only through distributors?
We sell both directly to end users and through authorized distributors. Contact us at (503) 626-0654 to discuss the best purchasing option for your needs.
How long have you been in business?
Allied Power Products was founded in 1983, and has been providing specialized winch and hoist solutions for over 40 years, with extensive experience in custom applications across multiple industries.
What is the difference between Allied Power Products, Inc. and Columbia Winches and Hoists?
Allied Power Products, Inc. designs and manufacturers our Columbia line of winches and hoists. Allied Power Products, Inc. is also an authorized distributor for a number of hydraulic and DC electric winch and hoist manufacturers.
What makes Columbia Winches and Hoists different from other brands?
Columbia winches and hoists are designed for specific applications rather than general use. We focus on providing the exact solution you need, whether from our extensive standard line or through custom engineering.
Product Selection
How do I calculate the capacity of the winch or hoist I need?
Capacity depends on your specific application. Consider the maximum load weight, pulling angle, line speed requirements, and duty cycle. Our engineers can help you calculate the proper capacity – call (503) 626-0654 for assistance.
What’s the difference between AC electric, DC electric, and pneumatic power?
- AC Electric: Best for stationary applications with reliable electrical power
- DC Electric: Ideal for mobile applications, vehicles, or battery-powered systems
- Pneumatic: Perfect for hazardous locations or where electrical power isn’t available
Can I use an electric winch outdoors?
Yes, many of our electric winches and hoists are designed for outdoor use with NEMA and/or IP ratings and weather-resistant enclosures. Specify outdoor use when ordering to ensure proper protection rating.
Do you offer marine quality coatings and corrosion protection?
Yes, we can provide marine quality paint and corrosion resistant coatings and/or parts for equipment that will be used in harsh marine environments or other corrosive conditions. This ensures longer equipment life and reduced maintenance in challenging environments.
What’s the maximum pulling capacity you offer?
Our standard hoists range from 100 pounds to over 64,000 pounds line pull, with motor sizes from fractional horsepower to over 200 horsepower. We’ve built custom units exceeding these capacities, and for applications requiring even higher pulls, we can design multiple-unit systems or engineer completely custom solutions to meet your specific requirements.
Customization
Do you modify standard products?
Yes, we frequently modify standard units to meet specific requirements. This is often more cost-effective and faster than designing a completely custom unit.
How long does a custom winch or hoist take to build?
Lead times vary depending on complexity and current workload. We have some products ready to ship, standard products available in a few weeks, and modified units in a few months. Completely custom units can take considerably longer depending on the application requirements. Contact us for current lead times on your specific project.
Can you design a winch for a hazardous location?
Yes, we manufacture HAZLOC equipment for use in potentially explosive environments, including pneumatic units that eliminate electrical ignition sources.
What if I don’t know exactly what I need?
That’s what we’re here for! Our experienced sales team works closely with you to understand your application and help provide the best solution. We’ve solved thousands of unique lifting and pulling challenges – call (503) 626-0654 and we’ll help figure it out.
Technical Support
Do you provide installation support?
We provide basic setup guidelines, technical drawings, and specifications for mounting and rigging. We recommend using qualified local electricians for wiring and certified rigging professionals for installation to ensure proper and safe deployment.
What maintenance is required?
Our units are built to last with minimal maintenance requirements. Regular inspection and lubrication are typically the main needs, plus replacement of normal wear items like wire rope when needed. We provide basic maintenance guidelines with each unit, though most Columbia equipment requires very little attention over its service life.
Do you offer training on equipment operation?
We can provide operation and safety guidance for your specific equipment. For hands-on training, we recommend working with local training partners who can demonstrate proper operation procedures on-site.
What if my equipment needs repair?
We frequently help customers repair equipment that’s been in service for decades. We can source parts for Columbia products and provide repair guidance and service options. Contact us for repair estimates.
What warranty do you provide?
All Columbia equipment manufactured by Allied Power Products comes with a 24-month warranty from date of shipment, covering defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty covers repair or replacement of defective products when examined at our facility. Freight, removal, and installation charges are the buyer’s responsibility.
Ordering and Pricing
How do I get a quote?
Call (503) 626-0654 or email us through our website contact form. Provide details about your application, load requirements, and operating conditions for an accurate quote.
What information do you need for a quote?
To get started, at a minimum we will need to know:
- Load weight and dimensions
- Required pulling/lifting distance and speed
- Operating environment (indoor/outdoor, temperature, hazards)
- Available power source
- Mounting constraints or special requirements
Do you offer financing options?
Contact our sales team to discuss financing options that may be available for your project.
What is your typical delivery time?
Standard products typically ship in 2-6 weeks. Modified or custom units may take longer depending on complexity. We’ll provide delivery estimates with your quote.
Warranty and Support
Do you provide replacement parts?
Yes, we maintain parts inventory for Columbia products and can provide replacement parts, service kits, and upgrade components.
Can you service equipment from other manufacturers?
We focus on supporting Columbia products. For other brands, we may be able to provide guidance or recommend service providers.
Do you offer preventive maintenance programs?
Contact us to discuss maintenance programs for critical applications where downtime must be minimized.
Applications
What industries do you serve?
We’ve provided solutions for aerospace, utilities, mining, marine, construction, entertainment, logging, and many other industries. If you need to lift, pull, or position something, we can likely help.
Can you handle unique or unusual applications?
Absolutely! We’ve moved everything from ship anchors to elephants, concrete panels to artwork. Unusual applications are our specialty.
Do you work on international projects?
Yes, we’ve provided equipment internationally, particularly for mining and industrial applications. We can accommodate different electrical standards and shipping requirements.
Can your equipment work in extreme temperatures?
Yes, we can specify components and lubricants for extreme temperature applications, both hot and cold environments.
Getting Started
I’m not sure if you can help with my application – should I call?
Yes! If you need to move something and aren’t sure how, give us a call. We enjoy solving challenging applications and can often find solutions others can’t.
Do you provide site visits?
For significant projects, we can arrange site visits to better understand your application and requirements.
How do I become a distributor?
Contact our sales team at (503) 626-0654 to discuss distributor opportunities in your area.
Still have questions? Call us at (503) 626-0654 or email info@alliedpower.com. Our experienced team is ready to help solve your lifting, pulling, or positioning challenge
Technical FAQ - Winch & Hoist
Line Pull Calculations
How do I calculate the required line pull for my application?
The basic formula is: Required Line Pull = W × (GR + CF)
Where:
- W = Weight of the load
- GR = Grade Resistance (based on incline percentage)
- CF = Coefficient of Friction
Common Coefficients of Friction:
- Steel on Steel: 0.40 – 0.60
- Wood on Concrete: 0.40 – 0.60
- Steel on Concrete: 0.30 – 0.70
- Load on Wheels: 0.02 – 0.05
- Load on Rollers: 0.05 – 0.10
Grade Resistance Examples:
- 5% grade = 0.050 GR
- 15% grade = 0.146 GR
- 30% grade = 0.288 GR
- 45% grade = 0.414 GR
- Vertical lift = 1.000 GR
For detailed calculations and grade resistance tables, see our Line Pull Calculation Guide.
How do multiple parts of line affect pulling capacity?
Using multiple parts of line (block and tackle arrangements) can multiply your effective pulling power. The number of parts needed depends on your load requirements:
Example: If you need 7,400 lbs total pull but your winch only provides 2,000 lbs single line pull:
- Multiplier = 7,400 ÷ 2,000 = 3.70
- You’d need 4 parts of line with roller bearing sheaves (multiplier 3.77)
The efficiency depends on sheave type:
- Roller Bearing Sheaves: Most efficient
- Bronze Bushed Sheaves: Medium efficiency
- Nylatron Sheaves: Least efficient but most economical
Fleet Angle and Wire Rope Spooling
What is fleet angle and why is it critical?
Fleet angle is the angle between the wire rope and a line perpendicular to the drum axis. Proper fleet angle (0.5° to 1.5°) is essential for:
- Uniform wire rope spooling
- Preventing rope damage and premature wear
- Safe operation
How do I calculate proper fleet angle distance?
Rule of thumb: The minimum distance from winch to first sheave should equal the drum width in feet.
Examples:
- 12″ wide drum = minimum 12 feet to first sheave
- 20″ wide drum = minimum 20 feet to first sheave
Maximum Distances for Proper Fleet Angle:
- Smooth drums (1.5° max): Shorter distances required
- Grooved drums (3.0° max): Longer distances acceptable
For detailed calculations, see our Fleet Angle Guide.
What if I can’t achieve proper fleet angle?
If space constraints prevent proper fleet angle, consider our AutoAdvance Line Spoolers which automatically guide wire rope for uniform spooling regardless of fleet angle limitations.
Line Speed and Performance
How is line speed determined?
Line speed depends on:
- Drum RPM (revolutions per minute)
- Current drum diameter (changes as rope winds up)
- Number of rope layers on the drum
Key Points:
- Line speed increases with each layer of rope
- First layer = slowest speed
- Outer layers = fastest speed
- Larger drum core diameter = higher line speed, lower line pull
For detailed speed considerations, see our Line Speed Guide.
Can I increase both line speed and line pull?
No – speed and pull have an inverse relationship for any given horsepower:
- Increase line pull → line speed decreases
- Increase line speed → line pull decreases
- Increase both → requires more horsepower
Horsepower Requirements
How do I calculate required horsepower?
Formula: HP(T) = (Line Pull × Line Speed) ÷ 33,000
Where:
- Line Pull = pounds
- Line Speed = feet per minute
- 33,000 = theoretical constant (ft-lbs per minute per HP)
Example: To lift 2,000 lbs at 33 feet per minute: HP(T) = (2,000 × 33) ÷ 33,000 = 2.0 theoretical horsepower
Important: This is theoretical horsepower. Actual motor size must account for inefficiencies in motors, gears, bearings, and rigging.
For complete calculations, see our Horsepower Guide.
Wire Rope Selection
How do I determine proper wire rope size?
Wire rope selection depends on:
- Load requirements: Breaking strength must exceed working loads
- Drum capacity: Rope diameter affects how much fits on drum
- Flexibility needs: Smaller diameter = more flexible
- Safety factor: Typically 5:1 minimum for lifting applications
Common Wire Rope Constructions:
- 7×19: More flexible, smaller diameters (1/8″ to 3/8″)
- 6×19 class: Higher strength, larger diameters (1/2″ to 2″)
How much wire rope fits on my drum?
Use our wire rope capacity tables in the Wire Rope Selection Guide to determine:
- Maximum rope length for given drum dimensions
- Effect of rope diameter on drum capacity
- Weight considerations for different rope sizes
Travel Distance and Drum Sizing
How do I determine required travel distance?
Key principle: Drum capacity must accommodate the actual distance the load travels, not the distance from load to winch.
Important considerations:
- Distance to first change of direction (sheave or pulley)
- Multiple parts of line require additional rope length
- Allow extra capacity for safety and rope deterioration
For illustrations and examples, see our Travel Distance Guide.
Duty Cycle Considerations
What factors determine duty cycle requirements?
Three critical factors:
- Load as percentage of rated capacity
- Higher percentage = more demanding duty cycle
- Frequency of use
- Number of starts and stops per time period
- Frequent cycling requires robust components
- Duration of continuous operation
- Time unit runs with load applied
- Longer duration = higher heat generation
Proper duty cycle analysis ensures appropriate motor sizing, brake selection, and component specifications.
For detailed analysis, see our Duty Cycle Guide.
Operating Environment Considerations
What environmental factors affect equipment selection?
Critical considerations:
- Corrosive atmospheres: Require special coatings or materials
- Temperature extremes: Affect lubricants and component selection
- High humidity/salt water: Need sealed enclosures and corrosion protection
- Water exposure: Requires appropriate IP ratings
- Airborne contaminants: Dust, dirt, sand affect sealing requirements
- High elevation: Impacts motor performance and cooling
What about hazardous location requirements?
Hazardous locations are classified by:
Class I – Gases, vapors, liquids
- Division 1: Normally explosive
- Division 2: Accidentally explosive
- Groups A-D based on specific substances
Class II – Combustible dusts
- Division 1: Ignitable dust normally present
- Division 2: Dust not normally suspended
- Groups E-G based on dust type
Class III – Ignitable fibers and flyings
- Division 1: Manufacturing areas
- Division 2: Storage areas
For complete environmental guidelines, see our Operating Environment Guide.
Application Engineering Support
When should I consult with your team?
Contact our technical team for:
- Complex load calculations
- Multiple parts of line configurations
- Hazardous location requirements
- Custom duty cycle applications
- Environmental protection needs
- Fleet angle problem solving
How do I get technical assistance?
Contact our experienced sales and engineering team:
- Phone: (503) 626-0654
- Email: info@alliedpower.com
Our experienced sales team works closely with our engineers to ensure proper equipment selection and application engineering for safe, efficient operation.
For additional technical resources and detailed calculations, visit our Resources page or contact our sales team directly.
Testimonials
Why Work With Us?
Quality & Reliability
When downtime costs you money, you need a product you can rely on. All of our products are built to rigorous design and quality standards.
Wide Variety of Standard Products
With a huge number of standard products and range of inputs, we have an unmatched ability to find solutions for a wide variety of applications without needing to engineer a custom unit.
Completely Custom Units
Can’t find what you need? We can still help. Our website covers only a small fraction of the thousands of custom units we have provided over the last 30 years.