Harrington ER, NER, & SNER: What’s The Difference?

Choosing the right electric chain hoist for your operations is not just a matter of preference but a crucial decision that impacts efficiency, safety, and productivity in your workspace.

Among the long list of options available in the market, Harrington Hoists stands out for its reliability, innovation, and comprehensive range of products tailored to meet diverse industrial needs. The ER, NER, and SNER series represent some of Harrington’s most advanced offerings, each designed with specific applications and environments in mind.

In this guide, we delve into the nuances that distinguish these three series, providing you with a clear understanding of their specifications, capabilities, and the scenarios in which each excels.

Whether you’re operating in heavy-duty manufacturing, requiring precision and durability, or looking for a compact solution for lighter loads in smaller workshops, Harrington Hoists offers a solution that aligns with your operational requirements.

Harrington Hoists is renowned for its legacy of excellence and pioneering in the realm of material handling equipment. With a commitment that spans several decades, Harrington has become synonymous with durable, reliable, and innovative solutions that cater to an extensive array of industrial needs.

History and Reputation

• Legacy of Innovation: Harrington Hoists has a long-standing tradition of introducing groundbreaking technologies in material handling.
• Quality and Reliability: Known for its unwavering commitment to quality, Harrington ensures that all products adhere to the highest standards.

Product Diversity

• Wide Range of Solutions: From manual hoists for small-scale operations to robust electric chain hoists for intensive industrial use, Harrington offers a comprehensive product lineup.
• Specific Series for Specific Needs: The ER, NER, and SNER series are tailored to meet the diverse challenges faced in different material handling scenarios.

Technological Advancements

• Innovative Features: Incorporation of advanced technologies such as the Guardian Smart Brake System, variable frequency drives (VFDs), and thermal motor protection.
• Enhanced Performance and Safety: These innovations not only improve the longevity and functionality of the hoists but also contribute to a safer and more efficient operational environment.

Commitment to Customer Support

• Extensive Support Network: Harrington provides a robust support system including training programs and a network of service centers to ensure users get the most out of their equipment.
• Customer-Centric Approach: The company’s dedication to supporting its customers underscores its role as a leader in the material handling industry.

When it comes to electric chain hoists, choosing the right model is critical for ensuring efficiency, safety, and longevity in your operations. Harrington Hoists offers three prominent series that cater to a variety of industrial needs: the ER, NER, and SNER. Each series boasts unique features and specifications, designed to meet different requirements in the material handling sector.

ER Series

• Specifications & Design: The ER series is known for its robustness and versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. It features a dual speed option, allowing for precise control of loads.
• Typical Applications: Ideal for heavy-duty operations where reliability and endurance are critical. Its design caters to environments requiring frequent and rigorous use.
• Key Features: The ER series is distinguished by its durability, with some models featuring advanced brake systems and thermal motor protection to enhance safety and performance.

NER Series

• Specifications & Design: The NER series steps up in terms of technological advancements, including features like variable frequency drive (VFD) for precise speed control and an IP55 rating, indicating a high degree of protection against dust and water.
• Typical Applications: Suited for manufacturing facilities and workshops where precise load control and variable speed are necessary. Its design is particularly beneficial in harsh working environments.
• Key Features: Notable for its high-performance, nickel-plated chain, and superior load capacity. The inclusion of a VFD and thermal motor protection underscores its efficiency and safety.

SNER Series

• Specifications & Design: The SNER series is designed for single-phase operation, making it an excellent choice for smaller workshops or applications where three-phase power is not available.
• Typical Applications: Perfect for light-duty applications or where ease of use and portability are required. Its compact design does not compromise on Harrington’s known durability.
• Key Features: Features include fan-cooled motors for improved performance and low headroom configuration for use in spaces where every inch of vertical space counts.

Harrington Hoists has long been at the forefront of technological advancements in the material handling industry, integrating cutting-edge features into their ER, NER, and SNER series hoists. These innovations not only enhance performance and reliability but also significantly improve safety and user experience. Below, we explore the key technologies and innovations that set Harrington hoists apart.

Smart Brake System

The Guardian Smart Brake Technology is a hallmark of Harrington’s commitment to safety. This advanced braking system ensures the hoist operates only upon receiving explicit commands, significantly reducing the risk of accidental drops or uncontrolled movements. This technology provides an extra layer of security, especially in operations where precision and safety are paramount.

Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)

Variable Frequency Drives allow for unparalleled control over hoist speed, making it possible to handle loads with great precision. This feature is particularly beneficial in applications requiring the delicate handling of materials or in environments where variable speed can aid in increasing efficiency and safety. VFD technology also contributes to energy savings, as it enables the motor to run at only the needed speed, reducing power consumption.

Thermal Motor Protection

Thermal motor protection shields the hoist’s motor from potential damage due to overheating. This protective feature ensures that the motor operates within safe temperature ranges, extending the lifespan of the hoist and maintaining its efficiency over time. It is an essential feature for operations where the hoist is frequently used, protecting against the common issue of motor burnout due to excessive use.

Nickel-Plated Load Chain

Selected models come with a high-performance, nickel-plated load chain. This not only enhances the strength and durability of the chain but also offers superior resistance to corrosion and wear. This feature is critical in harsh environments where standard chains might degrade quickly, ensuring reliability and longevity of the hoist.

Plug-and-Play Controls

The inclusion of plug-and-play controls simplifies the maintenance and replacement process of control pendants and power supplies. This user-friendly design feature allows for quick changes on the fly, minimizing downtime and facilitating easy repairs or upgrades without the need for specialized tools or extensive technical knowledge.

IP55 and IP65 Rated Protection

The ER and NER series feature models with IP55 and IP65 ratings, offering protection against dust ingress and water, making them suitable for use in demanding industrial environments. This level of protection ensures that the hoists can perform reliably even in areas exposed to the elements or in facilities where cleanliness and moisture control are critical.

The longevity and reliability of any hoist depend significantly on regular maintenance and timely service. Harrington Hoists places a strong emphasis on ensuring that their ER, NER, and SNER series hoists are not only built to last but also easy to maintain, thereby ensuring operational efficiency and safety.

Regular Maintenance

Maintaining a Harrington hoist involves routine checks and procedures designed to identify and address any potential issues before they escalate. These checks include:

• Lubrication: Regular lubrication of moving parts to reduce friction and wear.
• Cleaning: Keeping the hoist clean of dust, debris, and any corrosive substances that might accumulate, especially in the chain and around the motor.
• Inspection: Conducting thorough inspections for any signs of wear or damage, particularly in the load chain, hooks, and braking system.

Scheduled Service Classes

Harrington categorizes its hoists into different service classes, each with its own recommended maintenance schedule. These classes are determined by the hoist’s operational frequency and the environment in which it is used:

• Normal Service: For hoists used in environments with less frequent lifting operations or lighter loads. Recommended for periodic checks and annual servicing.
• Heavy Service: For hoists used more frequently or with heavier loads. More frequent checks are advised, with servicing recommended every six months.
• Severe Service: For hoists operating under extreme conditions, such as constant use or in particularly harsh environments. Monthly inspections and quarterly servicing are recommended to ensure continued safe operation.

Inspection Requirements

Harrington advises two types of inspections to ensure the safety and reliability of their hoists:

• Frequent Inspections: These are visual checks carried out by the operator or designated personnel. They focus on identifying any obvious defects or wear that could impact the hoist’s performance or safety.
• Periodic Inspections: More detailed examinations conducted by qualified technicians. These inspections delve deeper into the hoist’s mechanisms, assessing internal components, electrical systems, and structural integrity.

Service and Support Network

Recognizing the importance of professional maintenance and service, Harrington has established a comprehensive network of authorized service centers. These centers are equipped to handle everything from routine maintenance to complex repairs, ensuring that any issues are addressed promptly and effectively. Additionally, Harrington provides access to genuine replacement parts, technical support, and training, ensuring that users have the resources they need to maintain their hoists.

Selecting the appropriate Harrington hoist model—be it ER, NER, or SNER—requires careful consideration of your operational requirements, environmental conditions, and the specific tasks you need the hoist to perform. Making the right choice ensures efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness in your operations.

Assess Your Load Requirements

• Weight Capacity: Consider the maximum weight the hoist will need to carry. Harrington hoists offer a range of capacities, so it’s essential to choose a model that can handle your maximum load with ease.
• Lifting Height: Determine the distance the hoist needs to lift loads. Ensure the model you choose has adequate lifting height capabilities without compromising safety or efficiency.

Consider Operational Frequency

• Usage Frequency: How often will the hoist be used? Different models are built for varying degrees of usage—from light, occasional lifting to continuous, heavy-duty operations.
• Duty Cycle: Check the duty cycle rating of the hoist, which indicates how long it can operate in a given period without overheating.

Evaluate Environmental Factors

• Operating Environment: The environment in which the hoist will operate can significantly affect its performance. Consider factors like temperature, humidity, exposure to corrosive substances, and potential for explosive atmospheres.
• Indoor vs. Outdoor Use: Some hoists are specifically designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, including waterproofing and enhanced dust resistance.

Choose Appropriate Features and Technologies

• Variable Speed Controls: For precision lifting, especially when handling delicate or high-value loads, consider a hoist with variable frequency drive (VFD) controls.
• Safety Features: Look for hoists with advanced safety features such as overload protection, emergency stop functions, and durable braking systems.

Long-Term Serviceability

• Maintenance and Repair: Consider the ease of maintenance and availability of repair services. A model that is easy to service and maintain can reduce downtime and long-term costs.
• Warranty and Support: Review the warranty offered with the hoist and the manufacturer’s support services. Comprehensive warranty and active customer support can be indicative of the quality and reliability of the hoist.

The ER series is ideal for heavy-duty applications, providing robust performance and enhanced durability. The NER series, equipped with cutting-edge technologies like variable frequency drives and thermal motor protection, is perfect for environments that demand high precision and versatility. Meanwhile, the SNER series is suited for lighter, less frequent uses where simplicity and ease of operation are key.

By understanding the key differences and capabilities of these hoists, you can make an informed decision that optimizes efficiency, enhances safety, and aligns with your operational goals. Remember, the right hoist not only meets your current lifting needs but also adapts to the evolving challenges of your industry.