Heavy Construction Equipment Made Simple

Posted on: 19 November 2021

If you want to buy good quality material-handling equipment, it is very important that you know the different types of scissor lifts and how to use them. Scissor lifts can be very expensive, and it is important that they are used in the right way so that they last for a long time and so they do not cause any accidents or injuries. Here's some information to help you choose the right scissor lift:

What to Consider for Scissor Lifts

If you want a scissor lift for your business, there are numerous factors to consider to find the best equipment for your needs. Options for your scissor lift equipment include:

• Workload—Maximum capacity is the number that tells you how much weight the lift can carry. For example, if the maximum capacity of your scissor lift is 3,000 pounds, then it can carry up to 3,000 pounds at any one time.
• Speed—The speed of a scissor lift is measured in feet per minute, which is the maximum height it can get per minute. The higher the feet per minute, the faster it will go up or down.
• Lift Height—The most important factor to consider when looking at potential scissor lifts is the lift height. The lift height of a scissor lift is the distance between the ground and the topmost point of the lift.

Depending on the needs of your job, you want scissor lifts that meet criteria for things like loads and lift height.

Vertical Lifts vs. Multi-Directional Lifts

The two main types of scissor lifts are vertical lifts and multi-directional lifts. Vertical lifts are the more popular type of lift, but multi-directional lifts are often better for certain jobs.

Vertical lifts are generally easier to use than multi-directional lifts because they allow the user to move the platform in one direction—up. The platform can be raised, lowered, extended out over a drop-off, or retracted back into the lifting body. But because the platform will only move in one direction, it can be difficult to turn, especially when working on large projects. The user can also get caught between the platform and the vehicle that is supporting it, which could cause serious injury if proper safety precautions aren't taken.

Multi-directional scissor lifts provide users with 360° of movement while allowing them to work freely in any direction they choose. Because these types of lifts allow users a greater range of motion than vertical lifts, they are often more ergonomic. If you need to do work in multiple areas or turn around while working on your project, you may find that a multi-directional lift is ideal for your needs.

Scissor lifts are heavy equipment, and you want to choose the right one for your job. Contact a scissor lift rental service to discuss the options.