Used Boom Lift Mesa - 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. Warehouses, companies, contractors and retail operations and more rely on boom lifts on a daily basis. Staying safe while working at high altitude is essential for daily success.
There are numerous models of boom lifts available in the industry. Most boom lifts can be successfully run with a single operator. This equipment became popular in the orchard industry to harvest fruit without having to climb a ladder and balance heavy baskets or pails. Ladders need to be secured on solid, even ground in order to be safely accessible, making them hard to rely on in a natural orchard setting. Relying on a boom lift is an easier and safer way to reach tree tops.
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. Boom lifts can reach items even when it is impossible to move the machine right underneath the area you are working in, making it possible to fix overhead cables within telephone line and pole installation, window cleaning applications and similar circumstances. With a variety of joints allowing the machine to bend over or under items, the articulated boom lift is helpful for numerous applications. To enable operators to access many places, these sections of the boom lift can move independently. Famous for their tight turning radius, articulated booms offer an ideal solution for narrow hallways and storage facilities. 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. These machines are often seen servicing overhead wires and power lines. Certain models are outfitted with water cannons to be used in firefighting applications. Maximum reach can be attained with telescoping boom sections on certain models. Some articulating boom lift models have an extra jib to enable their platform to reach six feet further in any direction. The nickname “spiders” has been given to these boom lifts due to their legs which can support the machine on rough or steep terrain. 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. No second operator is required as the platform operator can extend the lift with the controls. Certain larger and taller models feature a jib located close to the top similar to an articulating boom lift model. There are models on the market capable of reaching over 180 feet. This equipment has been designed to be reliable and stable, with certain models capable of reaching their extended height in less than a minute. There are diesel and dual-fuel options with adjustable speed and weight range options from five hundred to one thousand pounds. With 4WD options and their capacity to travel through small spaces, boom lifts are used in a variety of industries. Telescopic booms are common in a variety of settings due to their ability to combine height and reach.
Jib
Boom lifts that have an extension between the platform and the end of the primary boom are called the jib. This enables extra reach and another articulation point or hinge for the platform to move side-to-side or up-and-down. Jibs are an option on many telescoping and articulating boom lifts. There is an articulation point available on certain models situated halfway between the platform and the wheels to allow the machine to reach over an obstacle and be lowered again if needed.
Genie Articulating Boom Lifts
A popular type of articulating boom lift manufactured on the market is the Genie Z-boom Model. Designed to provide the most versatility in difficult to access spaces, this model has the capacity to lift up, over and out with superior positioning. 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
When operating any type of industrial equipment, safety is first and foremost. Safety hazards must be advertised to everyone who is working in the area for best practices. Operating the equipment safely is vital for the operator and everyone in the vicinity. Before operating the machine, effective communication and essential safety gear need to be in place. Ensure there are no flammable or combustible items, open flame or lit cigarettes near the machine, engine fuels or battery gases. Have a properly mounted, accessible and visible fire extinguisher mounted within reach. Maintaining a clear area around charging stations and work surfaces is important as tools or clutter could damage the boom lift or cause tire punctures etc.
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. Single use components and fasteners cannot be reused due to their risk of failure. It is vital to discard oils and solvents safely and efficiently to prevent contaminating the environment. Safety can be increased with proper lighting and adequate ventilation along workbenches and within workshops and garages. 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
Key components of the boom lift are divided up to categorize the inspection process. Popular categories include Engine, Drive Chassis, Platform, Booms, Turntable, Controls and Function. Improperly conducting maintenance can lead to unsafe working conditions, damaged components, reduced performance and ultimately 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. The term commissioning refers to a list of single maintenance procedures that need to be completed at 50- and 150-hour intervals to keep the machine optimally running. Quarterly and annual maintenance is required to be performed throughout the year. Maintenance procedures are based on the operating hours of the boom lift and programmed maintenance may be conducted during pre-delivery machine preparation. Set yourself up for success by consulting your maintenance manual before operating the equipment to ensure battery life, oil changes and fluid levels are ready to go.
Boomlift / Manlift PDF
