Worm Gear Winches
Worm gear winches are manual hand winches used in theatre, schools and entertainment venues to raise and lower lighting bars, scenery, curtains and other overhead loads. The worm gear mechanism provides a natural self-locking action — the load stays securely in place when the handle is released, with no need for an additional brake or locking device. This makes them a reliable and straightforward solution for permanent rigging installations where controlled, precise height adjustment is required.
Part of our entertainment and stage rigging range. Browse all rigging accessories or visit our rigging hardware guide for more information.
How worm gear winches work
A worm gear winch uses a helical worm drive connected to a drum that coils the wire rope as the handle is turned. The gear ratio provides mechanical advantage for lifting heavy loads with minimal effort, while the worm gear geometry prevents back-driving — meaning the load cannot lower itself unless the handle is actively turned.
Typical applications
- Theatre and performing arts venues — raising and lowering lighting bars, curtain battens and scenic cloths
- Schools and community halls — simple, safe manual rigging for venues without motorised fly systems
- Houses of worship — permanent installation for adjusting overhead lighting and AV equipment
- Studios and rehearsal spaces — flexible height adjustment for lighting bars and drapes
What to look for
- Load capacity — Doughty winches are available in multiple SWL ratings; always verify the total load including bar, fixtures and cables
- Drum capacity — check the wire rope length the drum accommodates matches your required drop distance
- Compliance — entertainment winches should comply with EN17206, the European standard for stage and entertainment machinery; all Doughty winches meet relevant LOLER requirements
Safety note: Worm gear winches must be installed and inspected by a qualified rigger. LOLER regulations require regular thorough examination of all lifting equipment used in entertainment venues in the UK.
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