Boom Lifts: An Introduction

In Construction, there is a lot of work that has to be done in high areas or hard-to-reach places. Using a regular ladder is not stable and high enough for most construction jobs. This is why new technologies and innovations have been created to address this urgent need. One of these prized and valuable inventions is the Boom Lift. These powerful workhorses are not only used for construction but are widely used in repair and maintenance work as well. 

What is a Boom Lift? 

A Boom Lift is just one of the many kinds of aerial work lift or platform. Before diving into the world of boom lifts, let us first define what an aerial work platform is. An aerial work platform or lift is a type of equipment that is designed to lift workers and loads to towering and inaccessible heights. Other common terms for the aerial work platform are an aerial device, cherry picker, bucket truck, aerial lift, etc.

So, what is a boom lift? 

It is a type of aerial lift that provides horizontal and vertical access to unreachable heights. Boom lifts are built for heavy-duty work and are a must-use in jobs done outdoors, in industrial areas, and in most construction works. They are quite similar to scissor lifts with the difference of having more access to high places and having a smaller work platform. 

Main Parts of a Boom Lift

Each boom lift is comprised of three main components: the ground console, the arm, and the bucket. The ground console is the main control section for operating and driving a boom lift. It is attached to the chassis and the wheels of the lift. The second component is the arm. It is the part that allows the boom lift to extend and reach great heights and is powered by a hydraulic system. The third most important component of a boom lift is the bucket or the platform. This is the part that keeps the workers and the load secure while working. The platform includes guardrails, a platform control console, and a rotator, which allows horizontal movement of the platform. 

Uses of Boom Lifts

Boom Lifts have been created to serve different purposes and are designed to adapt to various tasks. Here are some of the most common uses of boom lifts: 

• Painting walls and ceilings
• Installation of lights and signages 
• Erection of scaffolding
• Fruit picking in farms 
• Tree trimming and pruning
• Building and property maintenance 

Main Types of Boom Lifts 

Articulating Boom Lift 

The Articulating boom lift is more popularly known as the "knuckle boom". It has more flexibility than other kinds of boom lifts because it has a swiveling turntable connected to its platform, which allows the operator to work even at difficult angles and narrow spaces. Articulating boom lifts are either diesel or electric power-operated, depending on whether you are working indoors or on rough terrains. Boom lifts are also equipped with non-marking tyres that help reduce noise and prevent work incurred damages on the floors. 

Telescopic Boom Lift 

The "stick boom" or "straight boom" is also called a telescopic boom lift. Its name is derived from its unbendable and extendable straight arm. Unlike the articulating boom lift, the telescopic boom lift cannot rotate but it can hold a larger weight capacity in great heights. It has a larger base so that it can carry heavier loads. Because of this, a lot of industries use the telescopic boom lift such as construction, paint application, property management industries, and industrial sites. Stick booms have a four-wheel-drive that makes them perfect for outdoor use. You can choose from diesel-operated stick booms or an electric-powered type to suit your work requirements and conditions. 

Hire the right boom lift

Here are several guidelines to help you select the most suitable boom lift hire in Melbourne: 

• Think about the horizontal reach and boom lift size - Always consider the height that you need to reach, the kind of work you will do, and the approximate weight that the platform may be carrying. Boom lifts are available in a range of different heights and sizes. Your choice will always depend on your requirements. 
• Determine whether you need a telescopic or articulating boom lift - Find out whether the job requires working in narrow spaces or complex angles, or if you need more horizontal reach or access. Both lifts were made for different purposes so it is essential to pick the best one. 
• Diesel or Electric - Your work location dictates the type of boom lift that you will hire. Outdoor work with uneven terrain will require diesel-powered lifts while indoor work recommends the use of electric-powered lifts. 
• Consider your work location and conditions - As stated above, work locations and conditions are key factors in deciding which boom lift to hire. When you are working in rough terrains or inside a warehouse or building, you have to choose the boom lift that is most fitting for the job.

 

Not only do you need to choose the right equipment and machinery, but it is also important to select the best lift hire company nearest you. Get a company that regularly maintains their machines and equipment, employs certified professionals and takes care of their clients just like family, just like the Eastern Access Group Melbourne. 

https://www.easternaccessgroup.com.au/hire-products/34ft-driveable-diesel-knuckle-boom-lift/