Used Boom Lift Orange - One of the commonest types of industrial equipment and aerial equipment is the boom lift. Also referred to as elevating work platforms, aerial devices, cherry pickers, mobile elevating work platforms and aerial work platforms, boom lifts are capable of completing jobs at higher elevations easily and efficiently. Many industries rely on boom lifts every day including retail locations, construction contractors, companies and warehouses. Staying safe while working at high altitude is essential for daily success.
There is a wide variety of boom lift models to choose from. A single operator can control a variety of boom lift models. This machine is popular for harvesting fruit in locations such as orchards that historically relied on climbing dangerous ladders. Since ladders require even, solid ground for setting them up safely, they can be unreliable in the agricultural industry. Relying on a boom lift is an easier and safer way to reach tree tops.
Gaining Access Over Obstacles
Some boom lift models can move up and over obstacles, making them ideal for working over top of items safely and efficiently. This equipment is used in numerous industries including installing telephone poles and lines, maintaining overhead cables and window cleaning applications due to their ability to reach items when it is not practical to situate the machine directly underneath the issue. With a variety of joints allowing the machine to bend over or under items, the articulated boom lift is helpful for numerous applications. To enable operators to access many places, these sections of the boom lift can move independently. Articulated booms feature a tight turning radius, making them ideal for hallways and narrow storage corridors. Dual-fuel models can work both inside and outside. Diesel versions are best suited outside and electric models are preferred for interior environments.
Articulating Boom Lifts
Articulated boom lifts are commonly found on construction sites and used in maintenance applications. Articulated boom lifts are utilized commonly for working on overhead power lines and wires. Firefighters may use these machines and some articulated boom lifts have water cannons. Maximum reach can be attained with telescoping boom sections on certain models. Certain articulating boom lifts can extend an additional six feet in any direction thanks to the additional jib in their design. The nickname “spiders” has been given to these boom lifts due to their legs which can support the machine on rough or steep terrain. Capable of fitting through doorways, interior articulating boom lifts are more compact and used commonly in storage, retail and warehousing applications. Interior models are typically electric boom lifts due to their lack of dangerous carbon monoxide exhaust and quieter features.
Telescopic Boom Lifts
Telescopic boom lifts do not bend the way articulating boom lifts do. Instead, they extend outwards and upwards with hydraulics that retract and extend. No second operator is required as the platform operator can extend the lift with the controls. Certain larger and taller models feature a jib located close to the top similar to an articulating boom lift model. Boom lifts are available that reach higher than one-hundred and eighty feet. In less than a minute, some models can reach their full extended height since these machines are so stable and reliable. There are dual-fuel and diesel models available. Weight range capacities vary from 500 lbs. to 1000 lbs. and speed is adjustable. Boom lifts can fit through tiny spaces and there are 4WD options on the market. Telescopic booms are common in a variety of settings due to their ability to combine height and reach.
Jib
Certain boom lift models have a jib or an extension located between the platform and the end of the main boom. This design facilitates an extra hinge or articulation point to enable the platform to move up and down or horizontally. Jibs are available on telescoping boom lifts and articulating boom lifts. Articulating models have a joint situated roughly halfway between the wheels and the platform to enable it to reach over an obstacle and then lower again if required.
Genie Articulating Boom Lifts
A popular type of articulating boom lift manufactured on the market is the Genie Z-boom Model. This model features excellent mobility and is capable of accessing hard to reach areas. The machine can lift up, over and out with ease, making difficult locations easy to work with. In 1985, the first Genie Z-30/20 articulating Z-boom was introduced; their up-and-over capacity make them instantly popular and this design continues today.
Proper Safety Measures
When operating any type of industrial equipment, safety is first and foremost. All known safety hazards must be known to anyone working within the vicinity. Safe operation of the machine and personal safety must be paramount. Proper safety gear and communication need to be completed prior to operating. Ensure there are no flammable or combustible items, open flame or lit cigarettes near the machine, engine fuels or battery gases. Have a properly mounted, accessible and visible fire extinguisher mounted within reach. Maintaining a clear area around charging stations and work surfaces is important as tools or clutter could damage the boom lift or cause tire punctures etc.
Daily Maintenance
It is important to conduct a visual inspection prior to operating and to consult the maintenance manual to ensure everything is up to date. Stabilizing the weight is accomplished supportive devices to lift and distribute the load. Straps, fasteners and chains need to be checked they are in good condition. It is very dangerous to reuse single use fasteners and other components as they might fail if used beyond their recommendations. It is vital to discard oils and solvents safely and efficiently to prevent contaminating the environment. Adequate ventilation and lighting are essential in garages, workshops and along workbenches. Typically the wide umbrella of maintenance is distinguished by subsections such as Commissioning and Programmed Maintenance Intervals, Annual Maintenance, and Quarterly Maintenance.
Maintenance Inspection Report
The boom lift components are divided and categorized to streamline the process of inspection. Common maintenance categories include Control and Function, Turntable, Booms, Platform, Drive Chassis and Engine. Improperly conducting maintenance can lead to unsafe working conditions, damaged components, reduced performance and ultimately downtime. The maintenance inspection report is an essential component to keeping the machine operable and the staff safe while extending the service life and overall performance of the machine. Commissioning refers to a list of one-time maintenance procedures to be complete at 50 hours and at 150 hour intervals. There is quarterly and annual maintenance protocol that is conducted once or many times during the year. Programmed maintenance procedures are completed based on machine operating hours or during “pre-delivery” preparation. Consult your maintenance manual prior to operating to ensure all oil changes, battery life and fluid levels are primed for success.
Boomlift / Manlift PDF
