When choosing a manual chain hoist or lever hoist, one key decision is the material — aluminum or steel. Both offer advantages, but the best choice depends on your working environment, load requirements, and usage frequency. Let’s compare the two and help you find the right fit.

1. Weight and Portability

• Aluminum Hoist: Much lighter than steel. Easier to carry, install, and operate. Ideal for mobile use, such as on-site construction or temporary lifts.

• Steel Hoist: Heavier and more solid. Better suited for fixed installation where movement is rare.

Choose Aluminum if you need to move hoists frequently or work at height.

2. Strength and Durability

• Steel Hoist: Stronger and more impact-resistant. Better for heavy-duty, high-load operations.

• Aluminum Hoist: Still durable, but not as tough under extreme impact or wear. More suitable for light to medium loads.

Choose Steel for heavy industrial tasks with high usage frequency.

3. Corrosion Resistance

• Aluminum naturally resists corrosion. Great for outdoor or marine environments where moisture is present.

• Steel Hoists may rust without proper treatment or coating. But galvanized or painted steel can still work well in dry indoor areas.

Choose Aluminum in coastal areas, offshore platforms, or rainy climates.

4. Maintenance and Longevity

• Steel Hoist: Long service life with proper maintenance. Can handle rough use.

• Aluminum Hoist: Easier to maintain because of lighter weight, but parts may wear out faster under overload or impact.

Choose Steel for long-term, intensive factory use.
Choose Aluminum for ease of handling and quicker setup.

5. Price and Budget

• Aluminum Hoist: Usually higher cost due to the material.

• Steel Hoist: More affordable, especially for standard lifting tasks.

Choose Steel when budget is limited and weight is not a major concern.

Comparison Table

Applications

Aluminum Lever Hoist (e.g. JTVM Aluminum Lever Hoist)
✔ Rooftop installation
✔ Maintenance in tight or high spaces
✔ Marine and offshore work

Steel Lever Hoist (e.g. JTVG Steel Lever Hoist)
✔ Heavy lifting in factories
✔ Rigging and construction
✔ Long-term warehouse setups

Final Thoughts from a China Chain Hoist Manufacturer

At JenTan, we design both aluminum and steel hoists to meet various industrial needs. As a professional China chain hoist manufacturer, we offer OEM solutions for global buyers. Whether you're lifting 0.5 tons or 9 tons, we’ll help you choose the right lever hoist or manual chain hoist for the job.

Need help selecting the best material? Contact us and our experts will guide you.