Scissor lifts are mobile pieces of equipment that allow individuals, materials, and tools to be raised to high workplaces. These combine a platform with a crisscrossed scaffold that can be extended and contracted to raise and lower the platform efficiently.
However, not all scissor lifts are created equal, and knowing the differences is key to selecting the right one for the job. Let’s look at the various types of scissor lifts and scissor lift sizes and compare them to help you figure out which is best for your particular use case.
Diesel or Dual Fuel (Propane and Gas)-powered scissor lifts are generally used in outdoor applications. This is partly due to their louder operation compared to other lifts, like electric-powered lifts. Diesel and Dual Fuel -powered scissor lifts also tend to be worse for emissions.
However, they excel in weight-bearing capacity, which can go as high as 1,500 lbs. Engine-powered scissor lifts can reach from 25-70 ft., or more, so they are good for maintenance or construction of large structures, towers, or buildings.
Electric scissor lifts are battery-powered, which makes them ideal for indoor applications. No loud motor means quieter operation without the carbon emissions of other scissor lifts. Many electric scissor lifts are smaller, making them easier to store or get into tighter spaces.
Electric-powered scissors lifts tend to have a lower carrying capacity, maxing out around 1,000 lbs., and they work well on even surfaces rather than rough terrain.
Rough terrain scissor lifts are aptly named with features for users who work in more challenging and uneven work areas. Not unlike offroad vehicles, these have options for four-wheel drive, traction control, and specialized all-terrain tires.
Rough terrain scissor lifts can carry up to 1,500 lbs., and their heights range from 25 to 70 ft. As far as fuel sources go, rough terrain scissor lifts are available in electric, gas, and diesel versions.
The height capabilities of lifts can vary, even within the same scissor lift type. When choosing a scissor lift, it’s important to consider its size and whether that matches the work requirements for your current and future jobs. For example, do you need a scissor lift on the lower end of the spectrum in order to reach 10-20 feet up for warehouse applications, or will you be working on buildings several stories up?
You also want to consider weight capacity. How much does the lift need to be able to handle to tackle the job required, and does the maximum weight capability match that? Some of the most common scissor lift sizes include:
When you’re ready to find the right scissor lift for your work, consider sourcing from Aerial Titans. They have a large inventory with quality machines at fair prices.
