A boom lift, also referred to as a basket crane, hydra ladder, or a cherry picker, is fashioned to lift workers and equipment for any type of aerial work. Boom lifts are available in different types based on each job specification. As such, you need to take into consideration a number of factors when hiring a boom lift for a specific project. Read on for further insight.
Necessary elevation
As earlier mentioned, boom lifts are generally used to reach high places. Therefore, the first criteria for your boom lift ought to be the ability to access the required height to allow the operator to effectively handle the task at hand. Don't confuse the platform height which is the vertical distance between the ground and the platform and the working height which is the total height of the operator's vertical height and the platform height. A clear distinction will enable you acquire the proper equipment for the lift task ahead.
Suitable capacity
Boom lifts feature a rated work load that denotes the maximum weight that the machine can comfortably accommodate on the platform, inclusive of workers, equipment, safety gear and working materials. Determine the platform capacity of the boom lift to know the number of people or equipment or supplies it is able to hold. Additionally, assess the size of the platform to make sure it has sufficient working area to harbour the heaviest load.
Necessary horizontal reach
In some instances, the lifting task isn't directly above the bottom of the boom lift, which means you have to weigh in the amount of horizontal distance you need the arm to stretch from the base. To calculate the right horizontal reach, consider the most convenient location of the boom lift, and if it can access the furthest point from its existing location while maintaining stability on the ground. Think about any hindrances that may impede the right spot of the boom, and the additional reach needed to work properly.
Indoor vs outdoor working area
Based on the lifting application, the equipment may be powered from a various sources, including gas, diesel and AC or DC power. To reduce noise pollution in outdoor applications, consider electric-powered equipment. However, in indoor applications especially in industries, battery-powered boom lifts are ideal.
Operating surface
Lastly, consider the terrain on which the equipment will be operating. Is it soft earth or concrete? It is sloped or levelled? In case the terrain isn't stable enough to accommodate the weight of the boom lift plus the load, consider choosing a boom lift boasting of added outreach.
As you can see, a comprehensive evaluation of the work site is needed prior to picking a boom lift for a given application.
