Used Boom Lift Berkeley - In terms of popular aerial machinery, the boom lift is one of the most recognizable. 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. Warehouses, companies, contractors and retail operations and more rely on boom lifts on a daily basis. Keeping workers safe as they access conditions in a higher altitude is priceless.
The material handling industry offers many boom lift models. A single operator can control a variety of boom lift models. 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. It can be difficult to secure a ladder on farmland or in orchard settings. Boom lifts make it much easier to reach high tree tops for collecting fruit.
Gaining Access Over Obstacles
Boom lifts make working over top of obstacle much easier as many models have been engineered to travel up and over items. 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. Famous for their tight turning radius, articulated booms offer an ideal solution for narrow hallways and storage facilities. 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. There are articulating boom lifts complete with an additional jib that allows the platform to extend an extra 6 feet 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. Interior articulating boom lifts are smaller and able to fit through doorways for use inside storage, warehouse and retail capacities. Electric boom lifts are common for interior jobs due to their quieter options and lack of unhealthy carbon monoxide exhaust.
Telescopic Boom Lifts
Articulating boom lifts and telescopic boom lifts move differently from each other. These units use hydraulics to retract and extend outwards and upwards. The worker who is in the platform has the controls to extend the lift and is able to operate without a second worker. Some taller and larger models have a jib situated near the top that is similar to an articulating boom lift model. There are models on the market capable of reaching over 180 feet. These machines are built to be stable and reliable. Some are able to extend to their full height capacity in less than 60 seconds. 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
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. Articulating boom lifts and telescoping boom lifts may have jibs. 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 popular type of articulating boom lift manufactured on the market is the Genie Z-boom Model. 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. 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. Proper safety gear and communication need to be completed prior to operating. Ensure there are no flammable or combustible items, open flame or lit cigarettes near the machine, engine fuels or battery gases. 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. Single use components and fasteners cannot be reused due to their risk of failure. It is vital to discard oils and solvents safely and efficiently to prevent contaminating the environment. Workbenches and workshop or garage areas need to have adequate lighting and ventilation. Maintenance is broad and typically categorized into subsections including Quarterly Maintenance, Annual Maintenance, Commissioning and Programmed Maintenance Intervals.
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. 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. Commissioning refers to a list of one-time maintenance procedures to be complete at 50 hours and at 150 hour intervals. 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
