A hoist is a device used to lift or move material. The lifting force is provided by a drum (or wheel) on which wraps a rope (wire or fibre) or a chain. There are different types of hoists – Electro-hydraulic, manual or lever operated, base mounted, or pendant cranes.
The most common types of hoists are electric hoists, wire rope hoists, manual hoists, and pneumatic hoists. All of these hoists are similar to each other, but are different in some key areas. In function, they all lift things up and down.