Used Boom Lift West Virginia - 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. Many industries rely on boom lifts every day including retail locations, construction contractors, companies and warehouses. Workers need to remain safe as they access locations at higher altitudes.
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. Relying on a boom lift is an easier and safer way to reach tree tops.
Gaining Access Over Obstacles
Some boom lift models can move up and over obstacles, making them ideal for working over top of items safely and efficiently. 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. With a variety of joints allowing the machine to bend over or under items, the articulated boom lift is helpful for numerous applications. The articulated boom sections can move independently to grant operators access to many locations. This equipment is popular in narrow storage locations and hallways thanks to its’ tight turning radius. 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
Articulated boom lifts are commonly found on construction sites and used in maintenance applications. Articulated boom lifts are utilized commonly for working on overhead power lines and wires. 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. There are articulating boom lifts complete with an additional jib that allows the platform to extend an extra 6 feet in any direction. 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. Interior models are typically electric boom lifts due to their lack of dangerous carbon monoxide exhaust and quieter features.
Telescopic Boom Lifts
Telescopic boom lifts do not bend the way articulating boom lifts do. These units use hydraulics to retract and extend outwards and upwards. No second operator is required as the platform operator can extend the lift with the controls. 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. In less than a minute, some models can reach their full extended height since these machines are so stable and reliable. There are diesel and dual-fuel options with adjustable speed and weight range options from five hundred to one thousand pounds. Boom lifts can fit through tiny spaces and there are 4WD options on the market. 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. This enables extra reach and another articulation point or hinge for the platform to move side-to-side or up-and-down. 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. 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. In 1985, the first Genie Z-30/20 articulating Z-boom was introduced; their up-and-over capacity make them instantly popular and this design continues today.
Proper Safety Measures
Of course, safety is the highest priority when operating any type of boom lift. Safety hazards must be advertised to everyone who is working in the area for best practices. Safe operation of the machine and personal safety must be paramount. 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. 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
Before engaging in activity, it is vital to do a visual inspection and consult the maintenance records to make sure all items are up to date and safe prior to operation. Stabilizing the weight is accomplished supportive devices to lift and distribute the load. Chains, fasteners and straps need to be inspected regularly to ensure they are in optimum condition. Single use components and fasteners cannot be reused due to their risk of failure. Environmental contamination can be prevented by properly discarding oils safely in an approved container. Adequate ventilation and lighting are essential in garages, workshops and along workbenches. Maintenance is broad and typically categorized into subsections including Quarterly Maintenance, Annual Maintenance, Commissioning and Programmed Maintenance Intervals.
Maintenance Inspection Report
Key components of the boom lift are divided up to categorize the inspection process. Common maintenance categories include Control and Function, Turntable, Booms, Platform, Drive Chassis and Engine. 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. A list of single maintenance procedures that need to be conducted at 50-hour and 150-hour intervals is known as commissioning. 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. 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
