A knuckle boom crane looks like a standard crane. The main difference is that the boom can fold back like a finger since the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the middle. This allows the machinery to be able to transform into a compact size for storage and maneuvering.
Knuckle boom crane arms are somewhat a little lighter than boom truck cranes. These crane arms are made to enable more payloads to be lifted on the back of the vehicle it is mounted on. Most knuckle boom cranes are mounted at the back of the cab. This leaves the whole bed of the truck empty.
Interestingly enough, smaller types of knuckle boom cranes could be utilized without a certified crane operator, so long as the maximum capacity is less than 15,000 lbs. or if the maximum boom length is less than 25 feet long.
Control systems for these cranes are often different. Some can control from the ground, radio remote control, stand up and seated control. The radio remote systems could operate the crane as well as starting it. Furthermore, numerous models come equipped with a computer readout system which instantly provides system readouts reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Snorkel Personnel Lifts are designed for contractors and facilities maintenance professionals. These lifts are inexpensive, lightweight, portable work platforms made for interior use. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel provides superb flexibility and excellent reach. This system, used in the UL Series, offers great lift capacity.
The Snorkel UL Series Personnel and PAM Series lifts have been designed and built in order to be easy for one person to operate. These machinery can be transported easily. They could easily be pushed into position smoothly and pass through a standard sized doorway. These lifts are capable of being erected in minutes and being able to provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they are an effective alternative to scaffold towers.