Classifications of Scissor Lifts & Aerial Lift Platforms
Scissor lifts consist 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 workers safe and help to secure their tools.
The scissor lift has a low profile, best utilized for smooth surfaces such as concrete, pavement and hard dirt surfaces. These machinery use either an electric motor or a combustion engine to be able to power the lifting apparatus and move the lift. The operator should move the lift itself if he or she needs to travel horizontally, since the lift mechanism just operates the lift vertically.
Rough Terrain Scissor Lift
The standard scissor lift and the rough terrain scissor lift utilize the same lifting technology. The main difference is that the rough terrain units feature a different base which is particularly designed for uneven surfaces. 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 difficult and muddy terrain.
Telescopic Boom Lift
The telescopic boom lift utilizes a telescoping beam which elevates both diagonally and vertically. This unit has a small work platform that houses controls in order to control the boom. The controls function with a combustion engine in order to power the hydraulics that power the boom and move the lift. The telescopic boom lift has off-road capable tires and is an independent lift unit.
Articulating Boom Lift
There are two telescopic booms on the articulating boom lift. These are attached with a moving elbow apparatus. This lifting machine has a small work platform or a bucket which is outfitted 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 available with either off-road or hard surface tires. These lifts are made in order to reach over top of and on 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. Typically, these lifts are electrically powered or pneumatic powered and are self-propelled machines. These machinery provide a great solution for working in high racks in narrow warehouse aisles. It is essential to remember that aerial mast lifts are limited to vertical movement and are not recommended for off-road use.