Classifications of Scissor Lifts & Aerial Lift Platforms
Scissor lifts are made of a series of crisscrossed steel arms, connected to make an X pattern. When the crisscrossed arms are extended, the platform is raised vertically. There are support railings along the lifting mechanism's edges to be able to keep the employees 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 equipment utilize either a combustion engine or electric motor to be able to power the lifting mechanism and move the lift. The operator must move the lift itself if he or she needs to travel horizontally, because the lift mechanism only operates the lift vertically.
Rough Terrain Scissor Lift
The standard scissor lift and the rough terrain scissor lift use identical 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 oversized all terrain tires and higher ground clearance. The rough terrain scissor lifts use 4-wheel drive in order to easily navigate through difficult and muddy terrain.
Telescopic Boom Lift
Telescopic booms are made to be raised both diagonally and vertically. This specific model has a small work platform which houses controls in order to control 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 has off-road capable tires and is an independent lift model.
Articulating Boom Lift
There are two telescopic booms on the articulating boom lift. These are attached with a moving elbow apparatus. This lifting equipment has a bucket or a small work platform 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 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
In order to lift a work platform vertically into the air, the aerial mast lift utilizes a telescopic mast. The lift is usually powered pneumatically or electrically and are self-propelled units. These machines offer an ideal solution for working in high racks within narrow warehouse aisles. It is really important to keep in mind that aerial mast lifts are not recommended for off-road use and are limited to vertical movement.