Classifications of Aerial Lift Platforms & Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are made of a series of crisscrossed steel arms, linked up to create an X pattern. When the crisscrossed arms are extended, the platform is vertically raised. There are support railings along the edges of the lifting mechanism in order to keep the workers safe and help to secure their tools.
Scissor lifts provide a low profile which is ideal for pavement, hard dirt surfaces and concrete. These equipment use either a combustion engine or electric motor to be able to power the lifting apparatus and move the lift. The operator would need to move the lift itself if he or she has to travel horizontally, since the lift apparatus only operates the lift in a vertical way.
Rough Terrain Scissor Lift
The standard scissor lift and the rough terrain scissor lift utilize identical lifting technology. The main difference is that the rough terrain models feature a different base which is specifically designed for surfaces which are not even. These models also offer 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
Telescopic booms are designed to be raised both diagonally and vertically. This unit has a small work platform which houses controls to be able to operate 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
There are two telescopic booms on the articulating boom lift. These are connected with a moving elbow apparatus. This lifting machine has a small work platform or a bucket which is equipped with hand controls in order 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 designed to be able to reach over top of and on top of buildings.
Aerial Mast Lift
To be able to lift a work platform vertically into the air, the aerial mast lift utilizes a telescopic mast. The lift is normally powered pneumatically or electrically and are self-propelled units. These machinery offer a great solution for working in high racks within narrow warehouse aisles. It is important to note that aerial mast lifts are not recommended for off-road application and are limited to vertical movement.