Used Boom Lift North Carolina - The boom lift is one of the most popular kinds of aerial machinery. Commonly known as aerial work platforms, mobile elevating work platforms, cherry pickers, aerial devices and elevating work platforms, it was engineered to complete work at higher locations more efficient and easier. Warehouses, companies, contractors and retail operations and more rely on boom lifts on a daily basis. Workers need to remain safe as they access locations at higher altitudes.
There are numerous models of boom lifts available in the industry. Most boom lifts can be successfully run with a single operator. This equipment became popular in the orchard industry to harvest fruit without having to climb a ladder and balance heavy baskets or pails. It can be difficult to secure a ladder on farmland or in orchard settings. Relying on a boom lift is an easier and safer way to reach tree tops.
Gaining Access Over Obstacles
Certain boom lifts are designed to move up and over items. This makes working over obstacles possible 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. The articulated boom sections can move independently to grant operators access to many locations. This equipment is popular in narrow storage locations and hallways thanks to its’ tight turning radius. The dual-fuel boom lifts provide service in both exterior and interior locations. Diesel models are used outside while electric boom lifts are implemented in interior locations.
Articulating Boom Lifts
Articulated boom lifts are commonly found on construction sites and used in maintenance applications. They provide a vital piece to the fleet for servicing power lines and overhead wires. Firefighters even rely on them and some models feature 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. These boom lifts go by the nickname of “spiders,” since their legs can support the entire machine on steep or difficult terrain. Smaller units called interior articulating boom lifts are capable of fitting through doorways, making them valuable in retail, warehousing and storage facilities. Electric boom lifts are common for interior jobs due to their quieter options and lack of unhealthy carbon monoxide exhaust.
Telescopic Boom Lifts
Articulating boom lifts and telescopic boom lifts move differently from each other. These units use hydraulics to retract and extend outwards and upwards. 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. There are models on the market capable of reaching over 180 feet. This equipment has been designed to be reliable and stable, with certain models capable of reaching their extended height in less than a minute. 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. In terms of combining height and reach, telescopic boom lifts are your best bet.
Jib
Boom lifts that have an extension between the platform and the end of the primary boom are called the jib. This enables extra reach and another articulation point or hinge for the platform to move side-to-side or up-and-down. 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 well known articulating boom lift that can be seen in a variety of applications is the Genie Z-boom. Designed to provide the most versatility in difficult to access spaces, this model has the capacity to lift up, over and out with superior positioning. The first articulating Genie Z-30/20 boom was launched in 1985. These machines became immediately popular with their up-and-over design that continues to make them sought after nowadays.
Proper Safety Measures
When operating any type of industrial equipment, safety is first and foremost. Safety hazards must be advertised to everyone who is working in the area for best practices. Safe operation of the machine and personal safety must be paramount. Proper safety gear and communication need to be completed prior to operating. Prior to operating, ensure there are no open flames, combustible or flammable items, lit cigarettes, battery gases or engine fuels present. It is important to have an accessible, securely mounted and visible fire extinguisher mounted within the operators’ reach. It is important to maintain a clean work space around charging stations and work surfaces since clutter or tools could puncture tires or damage the machine or its components.
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. Maintenance is broad and typically categorized into subsections including Quarterly Maintenance, Annual Maintenance, Commissioning and Programmed Maintenance Intervals.
Maintenance Inspection Report
The boom lift components are divided and categorized to streamline the process of inspection. Popular categories include Engine, Drive Chassis, Platform, Booms, Turntable, Controls and Function. Improperly conducting maintenance can lead to unsafe working conditions, damaged components, reduced performance and ultimately downtime. The maintenance inspection report extend the performance and service life of the machine and needs to be accurately maintained to ensure the machine is safe to run and that the machine is capable of performing properly. 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. Maintenance procedures are based on the operating hours of the boom lift and programmed maintenance may be conducted during pre-delivery machine preparation. Prior to operating your equipment, check your maintenance manual to make sure all of the fluid levels, oil changes, battery life and maintenance are up to date.
Boomlift / Manlift PDF