Used Boom Lift Surprise - The boom lift is one of the most popular kinds of aerial machinery. 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. 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. 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. 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. Boom lifts can reach items even when it is impossible to move the machine right underneath the area you are working in, making it possible to fix overhead cables within telephone line and pole installation, window cleaning applications and similar circumstances. The articulated boom lift is an example that has numerous joints enabling it to bend over or under items. 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. There are dual-fuel models that can work inside and outside; diesel is best utilized outside while interior locations rely on electric models.
Articulating Boom Lifts
Popular for maintenance jobs and construction, articulating boom lifts are a useful piece of material handling equipment. 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. Telescoping sections are available on certain models to extend reach to the maximum. Certain articulating boom lifts can extend an additional six feet in any direction thanks to the additional jib in their design. Since these machines commonly work on steep ground and rough terrain, they resemble “spiders” with their long legs, and often go by that nickname on the job site. Interior articulating boom lifts are smaller and able to fit through doorways for use inside storage, warehouse and retail capacities. Interior models are typically electric boom lifts due to their lack of dangerous carbon monoxide exhaust and quieter features.
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. The worker who is in the platform has the controls to extend the lift and is able to operate without a second worker. Some taller and larger models have a jib situated near the top that is similar to an articulating boom lift model. Some models of boom lifts can achieve a reach of more than 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. 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. Telescopic boom lifts are your best choice for combining reach and height.
Jib
Certain boom lift models have a jib or an extension located between the platform and the end of the main boom. 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. There is an articulation point available on certain models situated halfway between the platform and the wheels to allow the machine to reach over an obstacle and be lowered again if needed.
Genie Articulating Boom Lifts
The Genie Z-boom model is a common kind of articulating boom lift that can be found on the market. 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. The first Genie Z-30/20 articulating Z-boom model was launched in 1985. Thanks to their “up an over” abilities, they have gained the ultimate popularity that continues today.
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. Safely operating the equipment is a top priority for the operator and everyone in the working environment. Proper safety gear and communication need to be completed prior to operating. Be aware of any battery gases, engine fuels, combustible items, lit cigarettes or open flames near the machine and do not operate if any flammable or combustible items are 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
Daily maintenance includes a visual inspection and consulting the maintenance manual to ensure the machine is up to date and will operate safely. Lifting and supportive devices need to stabilize the weight on hand. Chains, fasteners and straps need to be inspected regularly to ensure they are in optimum condition. Single-use fasteners and components must not be reused as they may fail and become extremely dangerous. Discarded solvents and oils must be disposed of safely and in an approved container to prevent environmental contamination. Adequate ventilation and lighting are essential in garages, workshops and along workbenches. To organize and specify, maintenance is categorized into a variety of subsections including Annual Maintenance, Quarterly Maintenance, Programmed and Commissioning Maintenance Intervals.
Maintenance Inspection Report
The boom lift components are divided and categorized to streamline the process of inspection. Some of the maintenance categories for the boom lift include the Engine, Platform, Controls and Function, Turntable, Booms and Drive Chassis. Not complying with routine maintenance can put the operator at a huge safety risk, lead to damaged components, terrible performance and preventable 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. Quarterly and annual maintenance is required to be performed throughout 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
