Classifications of Scissor Lifts & Aerial Lift Platforms
A scissor lift consists of a series of crisscrossed steel arms which are linked to create an X pattern. When raised vertically, the X pattern of support holds the rectangular platform that is located on top of the lifting apparatus. There are support railings along the edges of the lifting apparatus to be able to help secure the workers' tools and keep them safe.
The scissor lift has a low profile, best utilized for smooth surfaces such as hard dirt surfaces, concrete and pavement. These machines utilize either a combustion engine or electric motor to be able to move the lift and power the lifting apparatus. The operator should move the lift itself if she or he needs to travel horizontally, as the lift mechanism just operates the lift in a vertical way.
Rough Terrain Scissor Lift
The standard scissor lift and the rough terrain scissor lift use identical lifting technology. The key difference is that the rough terrain units feature a different base which is particularly 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
The telescopic boom lift utilizes a telescoping beam which elevates both diagonally and vertically. This particular model has a small work platform that houses controls in order to control the boom. The controls function with a combustion engine so as 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 model.
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 that is equipped 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 offered with either hard surface or off-road tires. These lifts are made to be able to reach on top of and over top of buildings.
Aerial Mast Lift
The aerial mast lift uses a telescopic mast so as to lift 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 within narrow warehouse aisles. It is important to remember that aerial mast lifts are not recommended for off-road application and are limited to vertical movement.