A single-phase electric winch is a mechanical device driven by a single-phase AC electric motor that winds or unwinds a rope or cable on a drum to lift, pull, or tension loads. Unlike three-phase motors (which are common in industrial power systems), single-phase motors run off a single alternating current line plus neutral (no multiple phases).
Single-phase winches are incredibly versatile. Common uses include:
Workshops: Lifting engines out of vehicles, moving heavy machinery, positioning materials.
Farming & Agriculture: Hoisting hay bales, pulling stumps, handling feed, loading equipment onto trailers.
Marine: Launching and retrieving boats from trailers (boat trailer winches).
Construction: Lifting building materials to upper floors, light pulling tasks.
Warehouses: Positioning heavy inventory.
Auto Garages: Used in two-post car lifts (many car lifts are powered by single-phase winches/motors).