Handwheels vs Crank Handles
When it comes to manual control mechanisms, handwheels and crank handles each offer unique advantages. In this guide, our experts will explain and compare the difference between the two to help you determine which is best for your needs. We’ll cover:
Understanding Handwheels: Versatile and User-Friendly Control Option
Handwheels are manual control devices designed with a circular, rotating wheel attached to a shaft. With an intuitive design, these components are incredibly versatile and easy to use. By turning the wheel in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction, you can control a specific parameter with precise control.
Control handwheels let you make incremental adjustments. The rotation of the wheel can be fine-tuned, making it ideal for applications requiring accuracy, such as positioning machinery, adjusting tension, or regulating flow rates.
Unlike electronic or digital control interfaces that require power sources, machine handwheels operate manually. This lack of power dependence makes both metal and plastic handwheels reliable and functional even in environments with limited or no electricity.
Exploring Crank Handles: Efficient and Ergonomic Control Solution
Crank handles are a type of mechanical control component used for efficient machine adjustment and its ergonomic attributes.
At the end of the shaft is a connecting rod. This crank handle mechanism converts circular motion into rotary or reciprocating motion, meaning up-and-down or back-and-forth movement. This conversion mechanism offers remarkable efficiency, letting users control larger components with relatively ease. This is especially helpful in applications where precision and control are needed.
Crank handles are manually operated. You grip the arm to turn it in a circular motion. They’re typically designed to mitigate hand fatigue during extended use, so you can execute precise adjustments with minimal physical effort, thus enhancing comfort and productivity.
Our experts have put together a guide to help you learn more about ergonomics in handles. Learn more in our guide, What is an industrial ergonomic handle?
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Factors to Consider: Choosing Between Handwheels and Crank Handles
Both of these manual control options have their advantages, and you should base your decision on your unique needs and preferences. Consider these factors:
What type of motion do you need?
- Handwheels: Primarily designed for rotary motion control. If your application involves fine adjustments or precise control in a circular motion, go with handwheels.
- Crank Handles: Ideal when you need to convert rotary motion into linear or reciprocating motion. Choose crank handles when you need to move components back and forth or up and down. That said, crank handles can also provide rotary motion.
How important are ergonomics?
- Handwheels: Handwheels typically have a circular design that can be comfortable to grip. However, they may not provide as much leverage as crank handles, potentially needing more effort, depending on the task.
- Crank Handles: Specifically designed for ergonomic use. They typically feature comfortable grips, making them easier on your hands during prolonged use.
What are your precision requirements?
- Handwheels: Handwheels excel in applications where precise adjustments are critical. They offer fine control and are well-suited for tasks where accuracy is a top priority.
- Crank Handles: Crank handles can provide precise control, but they may not be as fine-tuned as handwheels. If your application requires very detailed adjustments, handwheels might be the better choice.
Is space restricted?
- Evaluate the available space for the control mechanism. Handwheels are generally more compact and might be the better choice when space is limited.
Summary: Handwheels vs Crank Handles
| Attribute | Handwheels | Crank Handles |
|---|---|---|
| Rotary motion control | x | x |
| Linear or up-and-down motion control | x | |
| Best for ergonomics | x | |
| Best for precision control | x | |
| Best for space limitations | x | x (depending on handle) |
|
Not sure which is best for your needs?
Our experts are happy to advise you. Call 0345 528 0474.
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Applications and Use Cases: Matching the Control Mechanism to Your Needs
Selecting the right control mechanism, whether it's handwheels or crank handles, depends on the specific application or use case. Each mechanism has its strengths and is better suited for particular tasks. Here are some applications and use cases for each control mechanism to help you match them to your needs:
Handwheels
Machine Tool Positioning: In a manufacturing setting, handwheels are often used to precisely adjust the position of cutting tools or workpieces on machines like lathes and milling machines. This use case allows operators to achieve accurate machining results.
Valve Control: Used in various industries to control the opening and closing of valves, regulating the flow of fluids or gases. This can include applications in chemical processing, oil and gas, and water treatment plants.
Industrial Equipment: Excellent for controlling equipment such as conveyor systems, material handling machinery, and packaging equipment. They enable operators to fine-tune settings, regulate conveyor speeds, or guide material flow efficiently.
We recommend:
Two-Spoked Technopolymer Handwheels
- Ideal for positioning and adjustment on machine and equipment
- Nylon material resists oils and grease
- Different types of manoeuvering handles to increase safety
Handwheels – metal with handle
- Leveraging hand hold for positioning and adjustment on machine and equipment
- Range includes aluminium and steel handwheels
Handwheels - Metal Without Handle
- Heavy-duty leveraging hand hold to operate positioning adjustment on large machines
- Four-spoke design allows strong hold handling, making handles unnecessary
- Stainless steel
Crank Handles
Adjustable Workbenches: In workshops and manufacturing environments, crank handles are used to raise or lower workbenches, allowing workers to adapt the work surface to their needs.
Conveyor Systems: Can be found in conveyor systems to manually control the movement of products or materials along the conveyor. This enables precise loading and unloading.
Industrial Machinery: Used in industrial machinery, including milling machines, drill presses, and lathes. Machine crank handles allow operators to make adjustments and control various machine parameters.
Hospital Beds: In healthcare settings, crank handles are essential for adjusting the height and positioning of hospital beds, ensuring patient comfort and care.
Window Openers: Commonly used in windows, allowing users to manually open or close them.
Trailers: Typically used to raise and lower a trailer's stabilising jacks for secure parking and loading operations. They provide a manual and straightforward means of adjusting the trailer's height and stability.
We recommend:
- Sometimes called a collapsible handle, this folding crank handle is ideal for machinery adjustable controls, window construction and trailer hitches
- Folds parallel to the body of the crank for safety, and to save space when not in use
- Available in nylon, reinforced nylon, glass-filled nylon and other thermoplastics
Molded Fixed Crank Handles – Straight Arm
- Commonly used on machinery adjustment, agricultural equipment and commercial product controls, such as vending machines
- Materials resist environmental concerns and provide a neat finish
- Available in nylon, glass-filled nylon, and other thermoplastics
- Ideal for use on window construction, trailer hitches, commercial equipment, and machinery adjustment controls
- Straight arm allows for fast and easy rotation
- Made of aluminium
Questions? We Can Help
If you’re not quite sure which handle will work best for your application, our experts are always happy to advise you. You might also find it helpful to read our guide, Handle design: T, L and pull handles.
Whatever your requirements, you can depend on fast despatch. Email us at sales@essentracomponents.co.uk or speak to one of our experts for further information on the ideal solution for your application 0345 528 0474.