At a working site for construction purposes, the tools that would help complete a job are very much needed. A wide range of tools are used, but the most helpful is the machine for lifting material. The material lifting machines for construction are supported to lift workers and the lifting material to a higher place. There are various types of lifting machines that lift workers to do different jobs.

This blog will compare Scissor Lifts, Spider Lifts, Boom Lifts, and Articulated Boom Lifts. So you can figure out how these work.

Scissor Lifts: A Stable Option

A Scissor Lift is a lifting machine with a wide platform. It moves straight up and down. The platform is supported by criss-crossed braces that look like scissors. When the braces stretch out, the lift moves up. When they fold, the lift moves down.

  • How It Works: Scissor lifts excel at tasks requiring one to operate on level surfaces like painting the walls or repairing the lights in a warehouse. Therefore, the platform is wide, so several workers can stand on it at once.
  • Practical Tip: Always make sure the ground is level before you get on a scissor lift. If it’s not level, the lift will wobble; that’s dangerous. So, always position the platform directly under the area you will be working on, as scissor lifts only go straight up.
  • Common Uses: Fitting windows, exterior building repairs, painting large areas, cleaning.

Scissor lifts are easy to operate yet safe if treated properly. Moreover, they are able to rise to great heights but not extend as far as some machines do.

Spider Lifts: Compact and Flexible

It derives its name from its legs, which are in a way akin to a spider’s legs. This is to mean that this lift employs four legs that support and balance the lift even in grounds that are not leveled. Besides, spider lifts are very light hence usable even indoors in buildings.

  • How It Works: Spider lifts can move in any direction and fit into small spaces. Thus, their legs help them balance on rough or soft surfaces, like grass or dirt.
  • Practical Tip: If you have to work in a confined area or want to reach high working levels without having the system in your way, a spider lift is the perfect solution. Just be sure to spread its legs properly before use.
  • Uses: Therefore, pruning trees, working along electrical lines, maintenance, and other servicing jobs inside the buildings, window cleaning on high-rise buildings.

The Spider lift is small and flexible. Additionally, it can be operated in places where other lifts cannot go: narrow spaces and inside buildings.

Boom Lifts: Reach Higher, Go Farther

Therefore, a Boom Lift is a type of aerial lift with a long arm attached to a platform. The arm can extend high into the air. Boom lifts can be used in places where it’s hard to set up a regular lift. However, they can go both up and out, reaching far distances.

  • How It Works: Boom lifts are perfect for jobs that need height and reach. The arm of the boom lift extends outward, so workers can get to places that are far away or high up. Some boom lifts can hold more than one person, but the platform is usually small.
  • Practical Tip: Always check the lift’s height limit before using it. Some boom lifts can go up to 185 feet high! So, make sure the area is clear, so the boom lift can move freely without bumping into things.
  • Common Uses: Fixing electrical wires, tree cutting, or construction work on tall buildings.

Boom lifts offer height and reach. Moreover, they are best for outdoor projects that require moving up and over objects, like roofs or power lines.

Articulated Boom Lifts: Bending Around Obstacles

An Articulated Boom Lift has joints that allow its arm to bend. This makes it different from a regular boom lift. The arm of an articulated boom lift can go up, over, and around obstacles.

  • How It Works: The joints in the arm give the lift flexibility. If you need to work in a place that’s hard to get to, like over a roof or around a tree, the articulated boom lift can bend and reach the spot. The base of the lift can also rotate, making it easier to move.
  • Practical Tip: Use an articulated boom lift when there are obstacles in the way. This lift can help you reach tricky places safely. However, make sure the lift is properly set up and balanced before starting work.
  • Common Uses: Repairs on roofs, maintenance work around buildings, and outdoor cleaning jobs.

Articulated boom lifts are perfect for jobs that require flexibility. If you need to reach over or around something, this is the lift you should choose.

Comparing the Lifts

Let’s take a closer look at how these different lifts compare in terms of their height, reach, and the type of jobs they are best suited for:

Scissor Lifts:

  • Height: Medium
  • Reach: Limited to vertical movement
  • Best for: Large platforms and stable surfaces, like painting or window cleaning.

Spider Lifts:

  • Height: High
  • Reach: Flexible and can move around obstacles
  • Best for: Indoor and outdoor work in tight spaces or uneven terrain.

Boom Lifts:

  • Height: Very High
  • Reach: Long horizontal and vertical reach
  • Best for: Tall buildings, trees, and outdoor electrical work.

Articulated Boom Lifts:

  • Height: High
  • Reach: Very flexible, bends around obstacles
  • Best for: Complex outdoor jobs with obstacles, like repairs around roofs or trees.

Each of these lifts has its strengths and weaknesses. Scissor lifts are great for simple, stable tasks. Spider lifts are compact and good for uneven ground. Additionally, boom lifts offer long reach, while articulated boom lifts add flexibility to that reach.

Choosing the Right Lift for the Job

When choosing a material lifting machine for construction, there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Job Requirements: Think about what you need to do. Do you need to move straight up? Or do you need to reach out and over obstacles? This will help you decide which lift to use.
  • Space and Terrain: Consider the space you are working in. Is the ground flat or uneven? Will you be indoors or outdoors? Different lifts work better in different environments.
  • Height and Reach: How high do you need to go? And do you need to reach far distances? So, scissor lifts are best for vertical work, while boom and articulated lifts offer more flexibility.
  • Safety: Always follow safety instructions when using lifting machines. Additionally, ensure you set up the lift properly and clear the area of obstacles.

However, BES Industry & Trading Sdn Bhd is a reputed company for such heavy construction elevators in Malaysia.

The End Note

Overall, Material lifting machines for construction are essential for construction work. Each type of lift serves a different purpose. The Scissor Lift is simple and great for vertical work on flat surfaces. On the other hand, the Spider Lift is versatile and handy for working in the most difficult-to-access areas or rough terrains. The Boom Lift does perfectly high, outdoor tasks, but its mobility continues with the Articulated Boom Lift to provide extra flexibility when working around obstacles.

In selecting the right lift for the job, remember to also consider dimension, reach, space, and terrain you will be working with. So, always make safety a top priority!