Used Boom Lift Kent - One of the commonest types of industrial equipment and aerial equipment is the boom lift. Boom lifts go by numerous names including cherry pickers, elevating work platforms, aerial platforms, aerial devices and mobile elevating work platforms; created to conduct jobs at higher elevations. Many industries rely on boom lifts every day including retail locations, construction contractors, companies and warehouses. Keeping workers safe as they access conditions in a higher altitude is priceless.
There are numerous models of boom lifts available in the industry. Most boom lifts can be successfully run with a single operator. Boom lifts are beloved in the agricultural and orchard industries, used to harvest fruit without requiring a separate ladder, they keep workers much safer since there is not climbing or bucket balancing involved. Ladders need to be secured on solid, even ground in order to be safely accessible, making them hard to rely on in a natural orchard setting. Boom lifts make it much easier to reach high tree tops for collecting fruit.
Gaining Access Over Obstacles
Boom lifts make working over top of obstacle much easier as many models have been engineered to travel up and over items. Having the capacity to reach an object even when you are unable to maneuver the equipment directly underneath has a variety of applications including window cleaning, telephone pole and line installation and service, fixing overhead cables and numerous other industries. Articulated boom lifts are comprised of many joints that allow the machine to bend under or over obstacles. The articulated boom sections can move independently to grant operators access to many locations. Famous for their tight turning radius, articulated booms offer an ideal solution for narrow hallways and storage facilities. 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
Popular for maintenance jobs and construction, articulating boom lifts are a useful piece of material handling equipment. They provide a vital piece to the fleet for servicing power lines and overhead wires. Certain models are outfitted with water cannons to be used in firefighting applications. Some models are built for extended reach applications and outfitted with telescoping sections. Some articulating boom lift models have an extra jib to enable their platform to reach six feet further in any direction. The nickname “spiders” has been given to these boom lifts due to their legs which can support the machine on rough or steep terrain. Smaller units called interior articulating boom lifts are capable of fitting through doorways, making them valuable in retail, warehousing and storage facilities. Interior models are typically electric boom lifts due to their lack of dangerous carbon monoxide exhaust and quieter features.
Telescopic Boom Lifts
Designed otherwise, telescopic boom lift models bend differently from articulating boom lifts. These units use hydraulics to retract and extend outwards and upwards. The operator who is situated in the platform has the controls to operate and extend the lift on their own. Some taller and larger models have a jib situated near the top that is similar to an articulating boom lift model. Boom lifts are available that reach higher than one-hundred and eighty feet. These machines are built to be stable and reliable. Some are able to extend to their full height capacity in less than 60 seconds. Adjustable speed, along with varying weight range capacities from 500 to 1000 lbs. are available in dual-fuel and diesel options. With 4WD options and their capacity to travel through small spaces, boom lifts are used in a variety of industries. In terms of combining height and reach, telescopic boom lifts are your best bet.
Jib
The jib is the extension found at the end of the main boom and between the platform. Certain models offer an additional articulation point or hinge that allows the platform to travel horizontally and vertically. 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
Safety is the utmost priority when operating any kind of boom lift. It is essential that all potential safety hazards are known to anyone working within the area to maintain a safe atmosphere. Operating the equipment safely is vital for the operator and everyone in the vicinity. Before operating the machine, effective communication and essential safety gear need to be in place. 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. 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. Workbenches and workshop or garage areas need to have adequate lighting and ventilation. 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
Main aspects of the boom lift are categorized and divided to facilitate the inspection process. 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. A large part of keeping the boom lift secure and operational is the maintenance inspection report that ensures the operator is safe and monitors the machine’s performance and service. A list of single maintenance procedures that need to be conducted at 50-hour and 150-hour intervals is known as commissioning. 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. Set yourself up for success by consulting your maintenance manual before operating the equipment to ensure battery life, oil changes and fluid levels are ready to go.
Boomlift / Manlift PDF
