Used Boom Lift Concord - One of the commonest types of industrial equipment and aerial equipment is the boom lift. 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. Staying safe while working at high altitude is essential for daily success.
The material handling industry offers many boom lift models. A single operator can control a variety of boom lift models. 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. Harvesting fruit is much safer and simpler with a boom lift compared to using a ladder.
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. The articulated boom lift is an example that has numerous joints enabling it to bend over or under items. These sections can independently move to allow workers to gain access to a variety of places. 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
Popular for maintenance jobs and construction, articulating boom lifts are a useful piece of material handling equipment. 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. Some articulating boom lift models have an extra jib to enable their platform to reach six feet further in any direction. 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. 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. 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. Certain larger units feature a jib located at the top that looks 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. 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. Telescopic booms are common in a variety of settings due to their ability to combine height and reach.
Jib
Boom lifts that have an extension between the platform and the end of the primary boom are called the jib. Certain models offer an additional articulation point or hinge that allows the platform to travel horizontally and vertically. Jibs are an option on many telescoping 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
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
Of course, safety is the highest priority when operating any type 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. Before operating the machine, effective communication and essential safety gear need to be in place. Prior to operating, ensure there are no open flames, combustible or flammable items, lit cigarettes, battery gases or engine fuels present. For the ultimate safety, it is important to have a visible, safely mounted and accessible fire extinguisher within the operators reach. Maintaining a clear area around charging stations and work surfaces is important as tools or clutter could damage the boom lift or cause tire punctures etc.
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. Lifting and supportive devices need to stabilize the weight on hand. 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. 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. 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. Some of the maintenance categories for the boom lift include the Engine, Platform, Controls and Function, Turntable, Booms and Drive Chassis. 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. Annual and Quarterly maintenance procedures need to be performed once or multiple times a year. There are a variety of programmed maintenance procedures based on preparing the machine for pre-delivery machine operating. Consult your maintenance manual prior to operating to ensure all oil changes, battery life and fluid levels are primed for success.
Boomlift / Manlift PDF
