Scissor Lift Versatility

Scissor lifts are defined as a work platform designed to lift or carry objects and people. They have become a standard piece of equipment in many workplaces around the world. The main function of scissor lifts, is to extend, lift and carry loads to a specific height. Elevation is attained through using a crisscross of supports that elongate to extend and fold together to lower. Many people benefit from scissor lifts because it is extremely helpful in lifting things up no matter the load of the weight.

Most scissor lifts use pneumatic, hydraulic, or mechanical power in order to extend the platform upward. There is a multitude of types and sizes of scissor lifts to appeal to variety of industries with varying requirements. Each workplace determines the load weights required to be moved, whether the work area of the lift will be inside or outside and the height loads will need to be lifted to so that they can order the correct type and size of scissor lift. Some of the additional equipment that may be required for the scissor lift are fixed or removable handrails, barrier gates, drop-arm barriers, loading flaps, roll-off guards, chain mesh lift sides, remote power pack location, shoot bolts, explosion class protected electrical system and galvanized finish.

Scissor lifts used to be designed solely for use in industrial and constriction areas. Now scissor lifts are able to work in many types of workplaces to move and lift material in order to maximize workspace floor space.

Many manufacturers have creatively designed modifications and variations to the scissor lift so that they can adapt to different markets, including wholesale and environments. Many scissor lifts are a staple in warehouses but there are also lifts designed to work in much smaller areas. These are known as “mobile” models because they can move over smooth surfaces. Since they are designed for mobility, these scissor lifts are flexible enough to tackle difficult terrains that can be encountered on job sites. Even the movie industry utilizes mobile scissor lifts so that the cameramen and cinematographers can get the great shots they need during filming.

Why use scissor lifts?

The versatility, reliability, and convenience of scissor lifts are appealing to an ever-growing market. Aside from the ability to use scissor lifts indoors and outdoors, the scissor lifts’ benefits are:

- provision of an ergonomic solution to lifting, positioning, or even transporting loads of varying weight. This helps to reduce stain injuries in the workplace.

- allows the operator to safely feed and/or unload parts from containers quickly and easily.

- operational convenience and compact size, with a foot action pump that requires little effort.

- helps the operator to be able to reach elevated areas that are normally inaccessible.

- simple to operate, reducing exhaustion in operators which results in increased production levels.

Manufacturers of scissor lifts continue to redesign and invent new models in order to benefit a broader market and assist in getting tasks done in the safest, quickest, easiest way possible. They continue to modify older model designs to ensure that they meet today’s safety, quality and operational standards.

Scissor Lifts and Their Importance

The role that scissor lifts play in industrial workplaces is vital. At one time or another most industrial, commercial and retail business will make use of a scissor lift, including a portable scissor lift table.

A scissor lift is either a type of aerial work platform (AWP) or elevated work platform (EWP). They are a mechanical device that provides temporary access for people, materials or equipment to high or elevated areas that are normally inaccessible. Some scissor lifts are capable of moving along the ground while extended, providing a mobile elevated work platform.

For the retail and manufacturing sectors, scissor lifts are primarily used for moving, lifting, handling and positioning heavy loads. Use of scissor lifts reduces the number of people that are needed for these tasks while maintaining a safe working environment.

There are many online and offline industrial suppliers from who scissor lifts are available for either rental or direct purchase. There is a wide variety of scissor lifts that is available in the market and each type varies in their functionality, capacity and cost. Portable and basic scissor lifts are usually equipped with stoppers and rollers and are mobile. Depending on the model, their load capacities can vary from 330 pounds to 1650 pounds.

These types of lifts are often maneuvered by a hydraulic pump that is foot operated. Construction grade lifts have platforms that can accommodate several people as well as material loads such as steel blocks, cement, tools, concrete blocks, pipes, and other things. Advanced models of scissor lifts have a platform tilt function to assist with unloading and feeding.

Basic portable models usually sell for around $250, but discounts can be negotiated for bulk purchases, including the lift and tilt models. The large scissor lift models; including those used in construction, can cost several thousands of dollars per lift, depending on its features and functionality.

Some scissor lifts are equipped with platforms or powered tables or platforms. This type of lift is larger in size with a load capacity of 2000 pounds or more. Available as a static lift or with rollers and costing $1400 and up, these models often have controls that are handheld, corded and pushbutton.

Battery powered scissor lift tables that have a heavy duty electric motor and built-in charger, start at approximately $1600. If larger load capabilities are required, there are self leveling scissor lift pallet carousels available.

There is a scissor lift model for almost every business, industrial or commercial need. The value that a scissor lift brings to the work place in terms of convenience, safety and reduced manpower costs is well worth the investment of the purchase.