The gate opening and closing machine operates not on a freely suspended heavy weight, but on the gate itself, which moves up and down along the gate opening channel or rotates around the pivot. The actuating machine for opening and closing gates in moving water is also affected by the dynamic water pressure, which varies with the opening size of the gate. Particularly for gates with large spans, double-hoist operation is required, and it is crucial to maintain synchronous operation of the double hoists. The speed of the opening and closing machine is very low, generally not exceeding 4 meters per minute, with only some rapid gates reaching 10-14 meters per minute.

The vertical distance between the lowest and highest positions of the gate hoist is known as the hoist height or lift. It is generally equal to the maximum winding capacity of the drum or the maximum stroke of the hydraulic hoist's piston, measured in meters. The lifting speed is the upward speed of the hoist at the extra motor speed or the extra oil discharge rate of the pump. Before operation, a thorough inspection of the hoist should be conducted to ensure that all parts are smooth and that bolts are not loose. When the hoist is in operation, the operator must remain on-site and immediately stop the machine upon discovering any issues.