Classifications of Aerial Lift Platforms & Scissor Lifts
A scissor lift is made up of a series of crisscrossed steel arms which are connected to make an X pattern. When vertically raised, the X pattern of support holds the rectangular platform which is situated on top of the lifting apparatus. There are support railings along the lifting mechanism's edges in order to keep the employees safe and help to secure their tools.
Scissor lifts offer a low profile which is great for pavement, hard dirt surfaces and concrete. These equipment use either a combustion engine or electric motor in order to move the lift and power the lifting mechanism. The operator should move the lift itself if he or she has to travel horizontally, as the lift mechanism only operates the lift vertically.
Rough Terrain Scissor Lift
The standard scissor lift and the rough terrain scissor lift use the same lifting technology. The key difference is that the rough terrain models feature a different base that is particularly designed for uneven surfaces. These units also provide oversized all terrain tires and higher ground clearance. The rough terrain scissor lifts utilize 4-wheel drive in order to easily navigate through difficult and muddy terrain.
Telescopic Boom Lift
Telescopic booms are designed to be elevated both vertically and diagonally. This model has a small work platform that houses controls to be able to operate the boom. The controls work with a combustion engine in order to power the hydraulics which power the boom and move the lift. The telescopic boom lift is an independent lift unit and has off-road capable tires.
Articulating Boom Lift
The articulating boom lift features 2 telescopic booms that are connected with a moving elbow apparatus. This lifting machinery has a small work platform or a bucket which is outfitted with hand controls in order to control the boom. These are stand-alone lifts which are powered by a combustion engine. Articulating boom lifts are offered with either hard surface or off-road tires. These lifts are made in order to reach on top of and over top of buildings.
Aerial Mast Lift
The aerial mast lift uses a telescopic mast in order to raise a work platform vertically into the air. Usually, these lifts are pneumatic powered or electrically powered and are self-propelled machines. These machines provide an ideal solution for working in high racks within narrow warehouse aisles. It is vital to keep in mind that aerial mast lifts are not recommended for off-road application and are limited to vertical movement.