Articulated boom lift – principle of operation and application [INFOGRAPHIC]

Articulated boom lifts are one of several types of boom lifts available. They consist of a long boom with a joint, which gives them their name. How do such devices work? Where are articulated boom lifts most often used?

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What elements does an articulated lift consist of?

The articulated boom lift consists of a special boom that makes it possible to work at heights. At the very end there is usually a basket that allows you to safely lift workers, tools and materials. 

In addition to the boom, the articulated boom lift also includes a self-propelled chassis that allows for smooth turning. The use of a joint in the arm system makes the device very compact, despite its long reach.

Articulated boom lift with side reach

There are also models of lifts on the market with side reach, which have an increased working range thanks to the use of an extendable arm. Such devices are used primarily when it is necessary to carry employees over longer distances. They will be useful in places where it is not possible to drive directly to the place of operations. Devices of this type are available in many variants, differing in range and maximum load capacity.

How does an articulated boom lift work?

The articulated basket lift is equipped with an arm that folds thanks to the use of joints, i.e. movable connections of structural elements. Thanks to this, it can maintain small dimensions when passing through hard-to-reach spaces. When unfolded, the device has a long range, up to several dozen meters. 

The lift arm is placed on a drive unit that can rotate 360 ​​degrees in many cases. Thanks to this, there is no need to move the machine every time, especially when work must be performed at several points at the same time.

Electric and diesel articulated boom lifts

Articulated boom lifts are available in electric and petrol versions. The first type is used primarily in closed rooms. These devices do not generate exhaust gases that could be dangerous to people staying in the room. 

Articulated combustion models are used outdoors. They are usually equipped with larger wheels that allow for easy movement on muddy terrain, e.g. on construction sites.

Use of an articulated lift

Articulated boom lifts are used in many industries. They are most often used in construction and renovation works. They are useful when washing windows, trimming trees, installing lighting or hanging billboards. They are usually used outdoors due to the large dimensions of the device when the arm is unfolded. 

The large reach means that articulated boom lifts can also be used for roofing and sheet metal work at significant heights. Sometimes such devices are also used inside halls and warehouses, but in this case it is necessary to use models with an electric drive.

Lifting capacity and reach of the articulated basket lift

The use of articulated basket lifts depends largely on the lifting capacity of a specific machine. In most cases it is over 200 kg. Thanks to this, the basket will accommodate two employees along with the necessary equipment and small materials.

When it comes to the reach of an articulated lift arm, it is most often over 20 m. There are also larger devices on the market that allow you to lift employees a distance of 30 m - sideways and upwards. Large, more advanced machines are naturally more expensive and are used for selected tasks where classic models are not suitable.

What industries use an articulated boom lift?

Articulated boom lifts are part of the basic equipment of companies in the following industries:

• construction,
• renovation,
• advertising.

Such devices are also used by people who maintain order in the city, cut down trees and repair installations located at high altitudes. They can also be helpful when building special structures, e.g. amusement parks or infrastructure used in films.

Universal articulated boom lifts

Articulated boom lifts are used wherever it is not possible to place the device directly under the work site. Models of this type provide a reach of up to several dozen meters while maintaining full stability. At the same time, they allow the structure to be rotated 360 degrees. They are basic equipment for companies from various industries.

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