The Vestil VS-ECH variable speed electric chain hoist is an electric power hoist with a hook mount, single phase motor, and infinitely adjustable speed from zero to 49 feet per minute (FPM) to facilitate control of the lift operation. The hand control on this hoist has a speed knob and individual up/down push buttons to help facilitate ease of use. This hoist has an auto brake designed to hold load in event of power loss for added safety, and a chain container that holds slack load chain during operation.

Hoists are devices that use relatively small amounts of force to lift and lower heavy loads. Power hoists transfer a small motor-generated force across a series of gears that multiply the force into one large enough to lift the designated load. Their lifting mechanisms consist of a motor; drive shaft and gear set; and a chain, rope, or wire, with a hook attached to it for lifting loads. Hoists are commonly suspended from structures by hook or trolley mounts, and are used in a variety of industries such as transportation, construction, manufacturing, mining, and material handling.

Load capacity is the maximum rated load a hoist can handle. While manufacturers may indicate they have tested a hoist beyond its limits, operators should never attempt to lift a load heavier than the maximum rated load. Lifting speed describes, in feet per minute (fpm), how quickly the hoist can lift the maximum rated load. Lift is the maximum vertical distance the load hook can move a load. Headroom is the distance from the bottom of the load hook to the top of the hoist. This is the minimum amount of vertical space needed for the hoist to hang freely and operate correctly. Duty ratings describe the maximum amount of time a hoist can run and the number of times it can start over a given time period under various conditions such as intermittent use, or short and lengthy periods of operation.

Vestil manufactures materials handling equipment, including hoists and trolleys, jib and gantry cranes, loading dock equipment, and storage solutions. The company, founded in 1968, is headquartered in Angola, IN.