In a world where sustainability has become more of a priority than ever, companies are continually looking for ways to reduce their environmental footprint without sacrificing performance or reliability.
In material handling, there is opportunity for improvement in cranes and hoist systems— especially as energy efficiency, responsible material sourcing, and waste reduction become key parts of operational strategy.
At MMI Hoist Systems, we’re committed to helping our clients achieve greener operations by integrating modern technology and sustainable design into our hoist and crane solutions. In this way, we help facilities not only reduce energy consumption, but also improve performance, reliability, and long-term cost savings.
Why Energy Efficiency Matters
Hoist and crane systems are often in continuous use—especially in manufacturing, logistics, and heavy industry. They are constantly lifting, lowering, and moving heavy materials throughout long shifts. Traditional motors are energy-intensive, driving up utility costs and raising carbon emissions. Over time, this affects both a facility’s bottom line and its environmental performance.
Energy-efficient motors and smart controls help address these issues by:
- Reducing energy consumption and emissions
- Enhancing control (more speed regulation, fewer power spikes)
- Minimizing wear and tear (controlled speed reduces mechanical strain)
- Lowering operating costs (energy and maintenance costs go down over time, offsetting the cost of upgrading equipment)
As the industry looks to create a more sustainable future, other solutions need to be considered as well, including:
- Recycling and refurbishing programs that give new life to existing components
- Durable material selection, prioritizing long-lasting components that resist corrosion and reduce the need for frequent replacements
- Predictive maintenance services, utilizing data insights to prevent failures before they occur, ultimately preserving resources and minimizing downtime.
With these solutions in mind, let’s take a closer look at some real-world examples that reflect a shift toward sustainability.
Demag DVR: Bringing High-Efficiency Technology to Modern Operations
One such example is Demag’s new DVR rope hoist. Designed to replace the outgoing DR line, DVR hoists represent a major step forward in efficiency and performance, incorporating:
- High-efficiency motors that reduce power consumption without sacrificing lifting strength.
- Precision control through variable frequency drives (VFDs) for smoother, optimized motor performance
- Modular design, allowing easier retrofits and upgrades to existing systems
- Reliable components that deliver a longer service life, reducing waste and lowering the environmental footprint of maintenance cycles
The result is a rope hoist that supports sustainable operations through energy savings and reduced mechanical wear—both essential for greener material handling.
R&M’s OLI App: Smarter Monitoring for Cleaner, Longer-Lasting Equipment
Sustainability goes beyond energy efficiency. That’s why one of the most impactful sustainability tools available today is R&M’s OLI (Overhead Lifting Information) app. This powerful system pairs with R&M’s monitoring systems to provide real-time insight into hoist health.
OLI helps track:
- Faults: Alerts that prevent unsafe operation (due to overloads, brake issues, overheating, electrical faults, etc.)
- Service warnings: Indicators that wear items (like breaks or contactors) need to be replaced
- Starts, stops, and runtime: Data that offers insight into how the equipment is being used, and helps companies make informed decisions about inspections, training, and potential upgrades.
- Loads and overloads: Lifting history that creates a clear picture of lifetime performance
- Designed Working Period (DWP): Real-time calculation of remaining equipment life
By tracking this data continuously, OLI enables more sustainable hoist operation by:
- Reducing unplanned downtime
- Allowing companies to plan maintenance more efficiently
- Extending equipment lifespan
- Identifying performance issues early
Overall, it’s one of the clearest examples of how digital tools contribute to environmental responsibility in industrial settings.
MMI’s Approach to Smarter Power
At MMI Hoist Systems, we take a hands-on, consultative approach to sustainability. We work closely with our clients to assess their current equipment systems, and we recommend energy-efficient upgrades tailored to each operation’s unique needs. Whether integrating new systems or retrofitting existing setups, our goal is always the same: to deliver sustainable, safe, high-performance lifting solutions.
In this way, MMI is leading the way into a more sustainable future, helping our clients lift smarter, cleaner, and more cost-effectively.
Ready to reduce your energy footprint? Energy-efficient motors are here to stay, and they’re a smart investment in your facility’s future. Let MMI help you design or upgrade your hoist system with sustainability in mind. Contact us today to learn how we can support you in creating a greener operation.