Used Boom Lift Thousand Oaks - The boom lift is one of the most popular kinds of aerial machinery. 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. Many industries rely on boom lifts every day including retail locations, construction contractors, companies and warehouses. 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. 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. 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 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. 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. The dual-fuel boom lifts provide service in both exterior and interior locations. Diesel models are used outside while electric boom lifts are implemented in interior locations.
Articulating Boom Lifts
Popular for maintenance jobs and construction, articulating boom lifts are a useful piece of material handling equipment. They provide a vital piece to the fleet for servicing power lines and overhead 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. Some articulating boom lift models have an extra jib to enable their platform to reach six feet further 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
Articulating boom lifts and telescopic boom lifts move differently from each other. Instead, they extend outwards and upwards with hydraulics that retract and extend. The operator who is situated in the platform has the controls to operate and extend the lift on their own. 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. 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
The jib is the extension found at the end of the main boom and between the platform. Certain models offer an additional articulation point or hinge that allows the platform to travel horizontally and vertically. Articulating boom lifts and telescoping boom lifts may have jibs. 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. All known safety hazards must be known to anyone working within the vicinity. Safe operation of the machine and personal safety must be paramount. Before starting the boom lift, it is paramount that the proper safety gear and communication is in place. Prior to operating, ensure there are no open flames, combustible or flammable items, lit cigarettes, battery gases or engine fuels present. Have a properly mounted, accessible and visible fire extinguisher mounted within reach. Keep work surfaces and charging stations clean and free from clutter or tools that could puncture the 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. These industrial machines rely on lifting and supportive mechanisms to stabilize the weight. Chains, fasteners and straps need to be inspected regularly to ensure they are in optimum condition. It is very dangerous to reuse single use fasteners and other components as they might fail if used beyond their recommendations. 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. 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. Popular categories include Engine, Drive Chassis, Platform, Booms, Turntable, Controls and Function. Improperly conducting maintenance can lead to unsafe working conditions, damaged components, reduced performance and ultimately downtime. A large part of keeping the boom lift secure and operational is the maintenance inspection report that ensures the operator is safe and monitors the machine’s performance and service. 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. Programmed maintenance procedures are completed based on machine operating hours or during “pre-delivery” 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
