Common Scissor Lifts to Consider for Your Project

Mobile elevated work platforms are indispensable in residential and commercial buildings during construction and renovation projects. These are devices which are designed to help you or your workers to reach inaccessible areas at heights. This type of equipment is perfect for your operation because the setup is temporary and the mobility provides flexibility. One of the ideal mobile work-at-height devices is the scissor lift. The equipment can extend vertically using linked folding supports which form a criss-cross pattern. They are convenient for outdoor and indoor projects, and they are generally very safe for operation. Here are common types of scissor lifts to consider purchasing or renting for your projects.

Hydraulic

The hydraulic scissor lift is designed and fabricated to use fluid under pressure to control the motion of the equipment. It is a popular choice because the movements are smooth and consistent. Basically, the fluid is pumped in the system and the flow will control the up and down movement of the platform. The only drawback in a hydraulic scissor lift is that the viscosity of the fluid can change depending on the temperature. In simple terms, the lift might operate faster when it is hot because the hydraulic oil will be lighter.

Mechanical

Mechanical scissor lifts are traditional but they are still useful in work-at-height applications. These lifts are constructed to allow the equipment to extend and contract through the action of a power screw or even a rack and pinion system. Both of these mechanisms use rotational or turning motion to create linear upward or downward movement. These scissor lifts are beneficial because the gears in the rack and pinion system and the threads in a power screw inherently mitigate the risk of accidental slippage. This property ensures that the mechanical scissor lifts are safe for use.

Pneumatic

As implied, the pneumatic scissor lift is operated by harnessing the power of air pressure. This type of equipment is highly efficient and eco-friendly because the system can utilise atmospheric air. In addition, most of these machines do not require electricity for the compression and release of air pressure. In simple terms, the pneumatic lift can be used in any space with an abundant supply of air. You will also enjoy minimal routine maintenance because air cannot contaminate the pipes and hoses in the equipment.

You should also note that you will find different scissor lift platforms classified as either electrical or diesel equipment. Choose electrical types for indoor use and diesel for outdoor applications because the latter produce noxious exhaust fumes.


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