Classifications of Scissor Lifts & Aerial Lift Platforms
A scissor lift consists of a series of crisscrossed steel arms that are connected to make an X pattern. When vertically raised, the X pattern of support holds the rectangular platform which is located on top of the lifting mechanism. There are support railings along the edges of the lifting apparatus in order to keep the workers safe and help to secure their tools.
Scissor lifts offer a low profile that is ideal for pavement, hard dirt surfaces and concrete. These machines use either an electric motor or a combustion engine to be able to move the lift and power the lifting apparatus. The operator should move the lift itself if she or he has to travel horizontally, as the lift apparatus just operates the lift in a vertical way.
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 which is particularly made for uneven surfaces. These models also offer higher ground clearance and oversized all terrain tires. The rough terrain scissor lifts utilize 4-wheel drive in order to easily navigate through difficult and muddy terrain.
Telescopic Boom Lift
The telescopic boom lift uses a telescoping beam which raises both vertically and diagonally. This specific unit has a small work platform that houses controls to be able to control the boom. The controls work with a combustion engine so as to power the hydraulics which move the lift and power the boom. The telescopic boom lift is an independent lift model and has off-road capable tires.
Articulating Boom Lift
The articulating boom lift features 2 telescopic booms which are attached with a moving elbow mechanism. This lifting machine has a small work platform or a bucket which is equipped with hand controls to be able 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 utilizes a telescopic mast so as to raise a work platform vertically into the air. Normally, these lifts are pneumatic powered or electrically powered and are self-propelled equipment. These equipment offer an excellent solution for working in high racks in narrow warehouse aisles. It is really essential to keep in mind that aerial mast lifts are limited to vertical movement and are not recommended for off-road use.