What are scissor lifts and how are these used in construction projects?

Scissor lift is a kind of construction lift that is equipped with machinery and a platform that can lift workers as well as heavy loads to elevated areas. Basically, these can lift personnel and tools to spaces high above the ground.

This kind of equipment is very useful to have on a construction site. These can offer a study enclosure and an elevated platform that can help workers carry out tasks accurately at high elevations, whether it comes to cable wiring or close inspections. There are variations in scissor lifts, when it comes to type of fuel used, application and size. Know about the various types of scissor lifts that are used in construction projects today.

Hydraulic scissor lifts

The hydraulic systems are driven by an engine or can be manual in nature. The alternating hydraulic oil pressure in the equipment can help operate the lift and move up the platform as well as bring it down. This kind of a lift is comparatively easy to operate and there is no need for users to go through much training.

Diesel scissor lifts

These are among the construction site lifts that are used most often today. These come with a cross-braced signature system which lets you to reach an elevation of 30 ft above the ground. Some of the lifts can take you as high as 60 feet over the ground. These emit fumes and are noisy, because these draw power from regular diesel fuel. Naturally, these are intended to be used in well ventilated areas or outdoor construction sites. These are also heavy in design.

Electric scissor lifts

These are also quite popular and can serve as an alternative to diesel scissor lift. Unlike the latter, these are silent in operations as these can work with electric power. For indoor spaces with lack of proper ventilation, these are great to use. As compared to diesel scissor lifts, these are also lighter in weight which makes them perfect for smaller areas.

Rough terrain scissor lifts

These are also exclusively designed for use in outdoor areas. These types of lifts come with heavy duty tires and a higher weight capacity. These also have extra safety systems, such as fall arresters and fall restraint systems. Due to such reasons, these are perfect for construction sites with uneven slopes and surfaces and also for construction projects that have to be carried out in harsh weather conditions.

You can reach as high as 50 feet with these machines that are powered by dual fuel, liquid propane, gas or diesel.

Pneumatic scissor lifts

These can lift you and your tools with the help of air pressure. No hazardous byproducts or fumes are emitted into the environment by these lifts, which make them safer than traditional lifts – which are known to contribute to carbon footprint.

These lifts compress atmospheric air and lift vacuums. These do not have any fuel and do not offer as much power as a diesel lift or a rough terrain lift out there. Such lifts can be used in about any type of environment, including indoor areas, given that they need only air for operations.