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 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.
The scissor lift has a low profile, best suited for smooth surfaces such as pavement, hard dirt surfaces and concrete. These equipment use either an electric motor or a combustion engine to be able to move the lift and power the lifting apparatus. The operator will have to move the lift itself if she or he needs to travel horizontally, because the lift apparatus just operates the lift vertically.
Rough Terrain Scissor Lift
The rough terrain scissor lift and the standard scissor lift utilize the same lifting technology. The main difference is that the rough terrain models feature a different base that is particularly made for uneven surfaces. These units also offer higher ground clearance and oversized all terrain tires. The rough terrain scissor lifts utilize 4-wheel drive in order to navigate through muddy and difficult terrain without problems.
Telescopic Boom Lift
Telescopic booms are designed to be elevated both vertically and diagonally. This specific model has a small work platform which houses controls to be able to operate the boom. The controls work with a combustion engine in order to power the hydraulics which move the lift and power the boom. 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 bucket or a small work platform that 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 off-road or hard surface tires. These lifts are made to be able 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. Usually, these lifts are pneumatic powered or electrically powered and are self-propelled machinery. These machines offer 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.