Classifications of Aerial Lift Platforms & Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are made of a series of crisscrossed steel arms, linked up to make an X pattern. When the crisscrossed arms are extended, the platform is vertically raised. There are support railings along the lifting mechanism's edges to be able to keep the employees safe and help to secure their tools.
Scissor lifts offer a low profile which is great for hard dirt surfaces, concrete and pavement. These machines utilize either a combustion engine or electric motor in order to power the lifting apparatus and move the lift. The operator would have to move the lift itself if he or she has to travel horizontally, because the lift mechanism only operates the lift in a vertical manner.
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 units feature a different base that is specifically made for surfaces which are not even. These models also provide higher ground clearance and oversized all terrain tires. The rough terrain scissor lifts use 4-wheel drive in order to easily navigate through muddy and difficult terrain.
Telescopic Boom Lift
The telescopic boom lift utilizes a telescoping beam that raises both vertically and diagonally. This unit has a small work platform that houses controls to be able to control the boom. The controls work with a combustion engine in order to power the hydraulics which move the lift and power the boom. The telescopic boom lift has off-road capable tires and is an independent lift unit.
Articulating Boom Lift
The articulating boom lift features 2 telescopic booms that are attached with a moving elbow mechanism. This lifting equipment has a bucket or a small work platform which is equipped with hand controls to be able to control the boom. These are stand-alone lifts that are powered by a combustion engine. Articulating boom lifts are available with either hard surface or off-road tires. These lifts are designed to be able to reach on top of and over top of buildings.
Aerial Mast Lift
In order to lift a work platform vertically into the air, the aerial mast lift uses a telescopic mast. The lift is typically powered electrically or pneumatically and are self-propelled models. These machinery offer a great solution for working in high racks in narrow warehouse aisles. It is really vital to remember that aerial mast lifts are limited to vertical movement and are not recommended for off-road application.