subject: Understanding The Major Parts Of A Powered Access Lift [print this page] If you are in the market for one of the many types of powered access mobile platforms, knowing what is available and what you will be using it for is important. The unit, which is also known as a cherry picker, has multiple uses and is comprised of many complex parts.
Before diving straight away into the kinds of units available understanding what the major parts are of a powered access lift is key. If you know what the major parts are, then you will understand what to look for when it is time to write the cheque.
Main Parts
1. Boom - This is the main part of the machine connected to the section, which carries the workers and the equipment. Falling into two categories telescopic and articulated, they each perform differently. A telescopic boom extends out to a predetermined length and height, where the articulated boom offers more options, moving sort of like your arm and wrist, in terms of getting into tighter spots.
2. Bucket - The bucket is the part of the machine where workers are located along with tools and other equipment. This part can be made of metal or fibreglass and is typically at waist level to allow workers to reach out without a lot of fuss.
3. Turret - Some units have the ability to rotate 680, but typically only rotate 360 thanks to the turret. Vertical or horizontal movement is possible because of how it connects to the boom.
4. Control box - Controlling the unit comes from a power mechanism either on the base of the unit or on the bucket to allow single user operation.
5. Foundation - The type of foundation will depend on if the unit is self-propelled or mounted to a vehicle. Self-propelled units typically are wide enough to serve as their own foundation. Truck mounted units have hydraulic arms, also called riggers, extending out to give proper support.
6. Riggers - The size of a cherry picker can be massive depending on conditions where it will be used. For this reason, riggers provide extra balance. Installed on the front, rear, and sides and are adjusted hydraulically.
Unless you are of the nerdy type and want to know about things such as the battery, fuel, and electrical components, understanding the main parts is all you need to decide the type of unit you will need.
Common types of cherry pickers
- Truck Mounted
- Self-Drive
- Rough Terrain
- Towable
- Internal/Narrow
- Self-Propelled
- Scissor Lifts
Powered access mobile platforms are used both indoors and outside. When deciding whether you need an indoor or outdoor model, one mounted to a truck or self-propelled, whether to rent or purchase it straight out, will depend on understanding the parts.
