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.1, 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.
A scissor lift’s power source can make a big difference. With electrical scissor lifts, there’s no concern over carbon emissions impacting the environment when used outdoors.
Electric-powered models are quieter than diesel-powered engines, making them suitable for use in indoor worksites. They also tend to be on the smaller side, making them easy to store.
Diesel-powered scissor lifts and dual-fuel scissor lifts use diesel or a combination of gas and propane as fuel sources. While diesel-powered and dual-fuel scissor lifts are typically louder than their electric counterparts, they also have a better weight capacity of up to 1,500 pounds. The usual max for electric versions is 1,000 pounds. Fuel-powered lifts tend to fare better on uneven ground.
In a nutshell, electric scissor lifts prioritize performance indoors and on smooth ground. They’re best for a small footprint and noise reduction. Diesel-powered scissor lifts are ideal for heavy loads and use in more rugged outdoor terrain.
Rough terrain scissor lifts feature reinforced, puncture-resistant tires while also providing adequate traction on uneven and challenging surfaces. With four-wheel drive functionality, these scissor lifts can maneuver challenging areas, reducing the likelihood of getting stuck. Rough terrain scissor lifts typically have higher weight capacity limits compared to standard models.
Some rough-terrain scissor lifts have outriggers, which are extendable legs that create a balanced and stable base for the lift. They typically come with a specific slope gradeability percentage. This gradeability defines how steep a slope the lift can handle2.
Here are a few:
Modern scissor lifts have a slew of safety features, including:
Some models have sensors and alarms for additional safety. Tilt sensors, for example, can alert operators if the lift is uneven and at risk of tipping. Overload systems recognize if too much weight is on the platform. Other alerts prevent the scissor lift from rising at all3.
Scissor lifts help alleviate numerous challenges at a construction worksite. With a scissor lift, raising supplies at once cuts down the need to transport them in more than one go. With larger weight capacities, you can effortlessly move heavier equipment (instead of building scaffolding and structures to reach certain areas).
Every scissor lift has maintenance recommendations. This advice might include:
