The Difference Between Chain & 'Rope' Rotators

When it comes to lifting heavy loads, it’s important to have the right equipment to get the job done safely and efficiently. One piece of equipment that is often used in lifting operations is a rotator. Rotators are designed to rotate loads, making it easier to position them in the desired location & more importantly freeing up the valuable overhead crane. There are two main types of rotators: chain rotators and rope rotators. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between the Bendmak ZR series of chain rotators and the Bendmak HR series of rope rotators.

The Bendmak ZR Series of Chain Rotators

Chain rotators are a popular choice for lifting heavy loads. They are designed to rotate beam loads up to 26,000 LBS (standard capacities) a full 360 degrees, making it easier to position them in the desired location for detailing, layout or welding and assembly of features such as clips, angles and more. The Bendmak ZR series of chain rotators is a high-quality, durable option for lifting heavy loads utilizing a double link chain with positive sprocket drive through a powerful reduction gearbox driven motor. These rotators are designed to be loaded with overhead cranes and then allow the fabricator complete freedom to safely position, rotate and manipulate the beam for comfortable access to all sides, and they come in a range of capacities, from 6.5 tons to 50 tons (special applications).

One of the key features of the Bendmak ZR series of chain rotators is their ability to rotate loads safely, smoothly and evenly. They are designed with high-quality bearings and gears, which means that they can handle heavy loads without any problems. The rotators are also designed to be easy to use, with simple controls that allow you to rotate & lift the load in either direction.

Another advantage of the Bendmak ZR series of chain rotators is their versatility. They can be used with a wide range of loads, including beams, pipe, assemblies, and machinery. This makes them a great choice for a variety of industries, including structural fabrication, construction, and logistics.

The Bendmak HR Series of Rope Rotators

Rope rotators are another popular choice for lifting heavy loads. They are also designed to rotate loads up to 360 degrees, just like chain rotators. However, they use a different mechanism to achieve this rotation. Instead of using chains, they use coated cables, or 'ropes' to lift and rotate the load without marring or damaging the surface.

The Bendmak HR series of rope rotators is a high-quality option for lifting heavy loads. They are designed to be loaded with overhead cranes, and they come in a range of capacities, from 2 & 3/4 tons to 11 tons, or more (special applications). One of the key features of the Bendmak HR series of rope rotators is their ability to rotate loads smoothly and evenly with a finer adjustment available then their chain counterparts. They are also designed with high-quality bearings & gears & utilize a friction hydraulic drive system, which means that they can handle heavy loads without any problems. Also incorporated in the design is a hydraulic support table along the beam to bet set in place on a solid support for welding and other fabricating needs. The rotators are also designed to be easy to use, with simple controls that allow you to rotate the load safely and smoothly in either direction.

Another advantage of the Bendmak HR series of rope rotators is their flexibility. They can be used with a wide range of loads, including beams, tubes, pipe, assemblies and machinery. This makes them a great choice for a variety of industries, including fabricating, manufacturing, construction, and logistics where surface integrity is important to the quality of the components.

So, What’s the Difference?

While both the Bendmak ZR series of chain rotators and the Bendmak HR series of rope rotators are designed to lift and rotate heavy loads, there are some key differences between the two.

The main difference is the mechanism that is used to lift and rotate the load. Chain rotators use chains, while rope rotators use coated cables or 'ropes'. This means that they have slightly different load capacities and capabilities. For example, chain rotators are generally better suited for lifting and rotating heavier loads of structural steel, while rope rotators are better suited for lifting and rotating lighter loads of cosmetically important parts.

Another difference is the way that the rotators are controlled. The Bendmak ZR Series of Chain Rotators are controlled by a positive tooth engagement in the chain whereas the Bendmak HR Series of Rope Rotators are hydraulically driven through a system of friction wheels on the rope. While both types of rotators have simple controls, the controls for chain rotators are generally easier to use. This is because they lack the additional hydraulic support tables that are standard on the Bendmak HR Series of Rope rotators. 

Finally, there is a difference in the cost of the two types of rotators. Chain rotators are generally less expensive than rope rotators, due to the fact that they are sim[pler in design and lack some of the features that the HR Rope Rotator series offers.

Conclusion

Both the Bendmak ZR series of Chain Rotators and the Bendmak HR series of Rope Rotators are high-quality options for lifting and rotating heavy loads. While they have some key differences, both types of rotators are designed to be easy to use and versatile, making them a great choice for a variety of industries. Whether you choose a chain rotator or a rope rotator will depend on your specific needs and the types of loads that you need to lift and rotate. Visit BENDMAKUSA.COM for more info or Contact Us today to get more information on how the Bendmak series of Rotators can help your business position heavy loads safely and easily.