Used Boom Lift North Dakota - In terms of popular aerial machinery, the boom lift is one of the most recognizable. Boom lifts go by numerous names including cherry pickers, elevating work platforms, aerial platforms, aerial devices and mobile elevating work platforms; created to conduct jobs at higher elevations. There are many places to find boom lifts at work including warehouses, contractors, various companies and in retail stores. Staying safe while working at high altitude is essential for daily success.
There is a wide variety of boom lift models to choose from. Many models are capable of being operated by a single individual. This equipment became popular in the orchard industry to harvest fruit without having to climb a ladder and balance heavy baskets or pails. Since ladders require even, solid ground for setting them up safely, they can be unreliable in the agricultural industry. Harvesting fruit is much safer and simpler with a boom lift compared to using a ladder.
Gaining Access Over Obstacles
Some boom lift models can move up and over obstacles, making them ideal for working over top of items safely and efficiently. 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. Articulated boom lifts are comprised of many joints that allow the machine to bend under or over obstacles. These sections can independently move to allow workers to gain access to a variety of places. Articulated booms feature a tight turning radius, making them ideal for hallways and narrow storage corridors. Dual-fuel models can work both inside and outside. Diesel versions are best suited outside and electric models are preferred for interior environments.
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. Firefighters may use these machines and some articulated boom lifts have water cannons. Maximum reach can be attained with telescoping boom sections on certain models. Certain articulating boom lifts can extend an additional six feet in any direction thanks to the additional jib in their design. 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. Capable of fitting through doorways, interior articulating boom lifts are more compact and used commonly in storage, retail and warehousing applications. 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. Certain larger units feature a jib located at the top that looks similar to an articulating boom lift model. There are models on the market capable of reaching over 180 feet. In less than a minute, some models can reach their full extended height since these machines are so stable and reliable. There are dual-fuel and diesel models available. Weight range capacities vary from 500 lbs. to 1000 lbs. and speed is adjustable. 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. This design facilitates an extra hinge or articulation point to enable the platform to move up and down or horizontally. Jibs are available on telescoping boom lifts and articulating boom lifts. 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 model features excellent mobility and is capable of accessing hard to reach areas. The machine can lift up, over and out with ease, making difficult locations easy to work with. The first Genie Z-30/20 articulating Z-boom model was launched in 1985. Thanks to their “up an over” abilities, they have gained the ultimate popularity that continues today.
Proper Safety Measures
Of course, safety is the highest priority when operating any type of boom lift. Safety hazards must be advertised to everyone who is working in the area for best practices. 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. For the ultimate safety, it is important to have a visible, safely mounted and accessible fire extinguisher within the operators 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
Daily maintenance includes a visual inspection and consulting the maintenance manual to ensure the machine is up to date and will operate safely. These industrial machines rely on lifting and supportive mechanisms to stabilize the weight. Fasteners, straps and chains must be regularly checked to make sure they are safe working order. 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. Common maintenance categories include Control and Function, Turntable, Booms, Platform, Drive Chassis and Engine. Not complying with routine maintenance can put the operator at a huge safety risk, lead to damaged components, terrible performance and preventable 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. There is quarterly and annual maintenance protocol that is conducted once or many times during the year. There are a variety of programmed maintenance procedures based on preparing the machine for pre-delivery machine operating. Prior to operating your equipment, check your maintenance manual to make sure all of the fluid levels, oil changes, battery life and maintenance are up to date.
Boomlift / Manlift PDF
