Used Boom Lift Alabama - The boom lift is one of the most popular kinds of aerial machinery. 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 is a wide variety of boom lift models to choose from. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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
These boom lifts are popular for numerous construction and maintenance jobs. These machines are often seen servicing overhead wires and power lines. Certain models are outfitted with water cannons to be used in firefighting applications. 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. These boom lifts go by the nickname of “spiders,” since their legs can support the entire machine on steep or difficult terrain. Capable of fitting through doorways, interior articulating boom lifts are more compact and used commonly in storage, retail and warehousing applications. Electric boom lifts are common for interior jobs due to their quieter options and lack of unhealthy carbon monoxide exhaust.
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. 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. 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. Available in 4WD and the ability to fit through small spaces. 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 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 boom lifts have a joint found approximately halfway between the platform and the wheels to allow it to reach over obstacles. The operator can lower the machine again afterward 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. This unit offers exceptional versatility for accessing difficult to reach locations with the capacity to lift up, over and out with precision. 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 starting the boom lift, it is paramount that the proper safety gear and communication is in place. 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. 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. Fasteners, straps and chains must be regularly checked to make sure they are safe working order. Single-use fasteners and components must not be reused as they may fail and become extremely dangerous. Environmental contamination can be prevented by properly discarding oils safely in an approved container. Safety can be increased with proper lighting and adequate ventilation along workbenches and within workshops and garages. Maintenance is broad and typically categorized into subsections including Quarterly Maintenance, Annual Maintenance, Commissioning and Programmed Maintenance Intervals.
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. 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. Maintenance procedures are based on the operating hours of the boom lift and programmed maintenance may be conducted during pre-delivery machine 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
