WHAT IS A SCISSOR LIFT / LIFT TABLE?

Scissor lift, also called a Lift Table is a type of mechanical lifting platform that is used across various industries to provide access to employees and equipment to elevated and inaccessible areas.
It is used to provide safe and efficient access for people and equipment to elevated and inaccessible areas. The scissor or table lift has made a substantial difference to the way industry workers carry out their jobs, saving an incredible amount of time and money while increasing safety at work. 

 SCISSOR LIFT COMPONENTS
The key components or parts of a scissor lift include: 

a. Scissor Lift Platform
A scissor lift's platform can be a variety of sizes, forms, and materials. The platform, also known as a lift table, is the working area that supports the load of workers or work objects being raised or lowered by the scissor lift. For fall protection, most units that transport personnel have a platform with guardrails around the perimeter. Lifting and lowering goods and inanimate things are common uses for platforms without rails.

 

  b. Scissor Arms
The scissor arms are usually a crisscross array of manufactured metal struts that connect the platform to the base. The length of each scissor arm or the number of scissor arms will determine the scissor lift’s maximum working height. The scissor arms raise and lower the platform as they constrict (pull closer together) and extend, and they can be powered by a variety of sources depending on the application.
 
 c. Scissor Lift Cylinders 
One to four compression or expansion cylinders are commonly attached to a scissor lift mechanism. Depending on the specification and operation conditions, these cylinders can be filled with hydraulic fluid (hydraulic scissor lift) or compressed air (pneumatic pump system). The scissor arms and platform are raised or lowered by increasing or decreasing pressure through these cylinders attached to the scissor arms.
 
d. Scissor Lift Base
A robust footing made up of strong, stiff brackets is the foundation of the scissor lift mechanism. Tracks guide the rollers at the bottom of the scissor arms in the base. In conjunction with substantial support from the base, these rollers guarantee that the unit is raised and lowered steadily and solidly. The model and application will determine the size and layout of the scissor lift base.
 
e. Scissor Lift Power Source
​A variety of different power sources can power a scissor lift. These can include everything from self-contained motors that work on various fuels to remote power packs. The working environment of the scissor lift will determine which power source is most appropriate.
 
TYPES OF SCISSOR LIFTS
Scissor lifts are classified into four types based on their structure: scissor cylinder type, aluminum alloy (column) type, crank type, and chain type. It is easy to maneuver, use, and hoist, and it has a wide range of home related work, as well as a solid balance function.
The different types of scissor lifts include:

1. Hydraulic Scissor Lifts

Hydraulic scissor lifts can be used indoors and outside and powered by either an electric motor or compressed air. From cylinder to cylinder, the hydraulic liquid is pushed or drained, allowing the scissor lift to raise or drop as needed. Warehouses, construction sites, and infrastructure projects are all good places to use hydraulic scissor lifts. The scissor lift operator turns on the power supply. Filling the cylinder(s) with hydraulic fluid begins with the use of a valve to control the flow of fluid or air (or compressed air in a pneumatic system).

​The hydraulic fluid or compressed air is moved from the reservoir to the operating cylinders via the scissor lift control system. For upward movement, the hydraulic cylinder pushes outwards, causing the scissor arms to push apart, lifting the platform. The operator releases the hydraulic fluid or reduces the pneumatic pressure level in the cylinder by returning it to the reservoir to lower the scissor lift mechanism, causing the scissor arms to retract.
Fixed installation lifts are frequently used to transport items from cars into a building's goods receiving rooms between floor levels. Mobile hydraulic scissor lifts are tiny, lightweight equipment that can be used to move cargo or large objects around a factory or workshop.

   2. Diesel Powered Scissor Lift
Traditional diesel engines are used to power diesel scissor lifts. They are not as eco-friendly as their electric equivalents because they are noisy and release polluting exhaust fumes when in use. The diesel scissor lifts often have larger platforms and are best used on outdoor construction projects, in well-ventilated inside spaces, and in areas where engine noise will not distract or disturb vital employee communication. Diesel is more cost-effective than gasoline, and it can provide a lot of torque at a low rpm.
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​Heavy-duty units are common, allowing for larger platforms and greater loads. For use on closed job sites, some variations include a hybrid powertrain. Diesel scissor lifts are among the most powerful scissor lifts available, ideal for the most demanding jobs. They are typically hired for work in outdoor sites, and several, such as tough terrain versions, can handle rough uneven ground. Some diesel scissor lifts can offer large deck surfaces and high platform capacities, allowing operators to operate with bulky and heavy equipment.

   3. Electric Scissor Lift
​Electric scissor lifts are more eco-friendly because they are powered by batteries rather than a combustion engine. Due to the lack of exhaust emissions and loud noises when working, they are perfect for interior use. Electric scissor lifts are often smaller, less bulky, and have narrower platforms than diesel scissor lifts. Because they work indoors, non-marking tires are frequently used to prevent floor damage during operations. They're usually used on smaller platforms and have fewer load-bearing capacities than fossil-fuel-powered machines like diesel, gas, or propane.
 
Between job locations, smaller scissor lifts can be transported or towed. Scissor lifts can be mounted on an automated guided vehicle (AGV), a flatbed, or a railcar for specific applications. Rigidity and durability are provided by an all-steel construction and a twin shear scissor stack for long operating life. The electric scissor lift operates reliably and consistently, thanks to high-quality components. These lifts' deep cycle batteries last as long as the job.

   4. Rough Terrain Scissor Lift
Rough terrain scissor lifts have more power for working in harsh outdoor conditions. To offer the necessary power for operating across rugged terrain and lifting bigger cargoes, they are often powered by combustion diesel, petrol, or LPG engines. Rough terrain forklifts have increased traction and travel speed, making it easier to maneuver around huge construction sites safely. The major function of these machines is to elevate people and objects off of the uneven ground. They are best suited for difficult environments where they can increase productivity through positive traction, gradeability, and speed.
    5. Pneumatic Scissor Lift
Pneumatic scissor lifts are driven by air rather than electricity or hydraulics, resulting in a very clean and low-maintenance lift. They are great for operations that aim to be ecologically friendly and reduce their carbon footprint because they use air pressure to raise and lower the lift. The airbag or numerous airbags used in the scissor lift operating system are commonly configured as single, double, or multiple, depending on the size of the scissor lift and its use. The unit is elevated and positioned by an air compressor for working or simple loading and unloading.
 
APPLICATIONS AND BENEFITS OF SCISSOR LIFTS
This chapter will discuss the applications and benefits of scissor lifts. The considerations when selecting scissor lifts will also be discussed including inspection, maintenance and common challenges experienced by scissor lifts.

1. Application of Scissor Lifts

The applications of scissor lifts include:

• Warehousing: When it comes to warehousing, every vertical and horizontal inch of space must be utilized effectively. Investing in a scissor lift for warehouses might expand the amount of space available for storage or speed up the recovery process. Similar applications can be found in the management of real estate, landscaping, and management of transportation.

 

• Production: By swiftly and safely reaching great heights and lifting heavy items, an aerial platform can improve operating efficiencies. Scissor lifts are therefore useful for manufacturing, chemical transformations, processing of food, and brick-laying.


• Building: Scissor lifts are a transportable, adaptable solution for construction projects with constantly changing conditions. As a result, scissor lifts are useful for: contracting for renovations and contracting in general.

 

• Delivery: The activities that scissor lifts excel in, such as reaching great heights and carrying big cargo that can't be lifted by hand, are common in busy shipping hubs.

 

• Signs in the Sky: The world is filled with signs that change frequently, from single companies to property managers with several locations. A scissor lift, whether rented or purchased, may reduce many of the concerns and problems that come with making those improvements. Some businesses that commonly change signage include workshops for mechanics, utilities for storage facilities, and maintenance of parking lots.

 

• Building Maintenance: Changing lights, hanging banners, laying bricks, pouring concrete, changing signs, accessing utilities, and a variety of other chores all necessitate working high in the air. Inside structures, scissor lifts are a popular choice since they allow personnel to complete duties safely. Furthermore, they are transportable and can be moved from one building area to another on their own. Churches, Libraries, Schools, and Hospitals are often responsible for these applications.

 
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1. Advantages of Scissor Lifts

The advantages of scissor lifts include:

• Improve Productivity

Scissor lifts are advantageous in palletizing and loading activities. They also help in setting the work surface at the right height. They shorten cycle times while increasing loading efficiency.

• Reduce Workplace Injuries

Back injuries related to heavy lifting commonly lead to time losses. A scissor lift is a way to raise goods to the required height. Offloading heavy goods, for example, necessitates repetitive, heavy lifting of the products from the pallet to the table. In this case, a lift table can place the pallet at table height, alleviating the worker's weight. This eliminates the strain of lifting in both the vertical and horizontal planes. If safety instructions are followed properly, scissor lifts can lessen the risk of acute injuries associated with heavy lifting.

• Enhance Process Ergonomics

Scissor lifts are easily adjustable so each operator can use a preferred height. A scissor lift does not only enhance repetitious stacking and loading chores but also makes the process more ergonomic. A scissor lift decreases the requirement for bending and twisting to adapt to table height. Scissor lifts, also known as lift tables, are the best solution for vertical lifting and material and personnel. They increase work productivity at the same time lowering the risk of injury on the job. A scissor lift can be used as a pallet positioner, for lifting and positioning operations, or for transferring cargo, making the job faster and safer.

• Access High Places and Difficult-to-Reach Areas

Because some lifts can reach heights of up to 32 feet, this is a tool that allows employees to reach areas that would otherwise be difficult to access. Height and carrying capacity, of course, go hand in hand with overall weight. As a result, the heavier the lift is, the higher the height it can reach and the more weight it can lift.

• User-Friendly

These lifts are especially simple to use. The controls are straightforward and virtually foolproof, reducing operator fatigue. This also implies that operators may be taught the usage of this technology in just a few days, allowing it to work quickly.

• Compact Dimensions

A scissor lift is the tiniest type of aerial work platform to ever come across. This is critical in confined places, such as event rooms or tightly packed warehouses, where stacked crates limit access to the ceiling.

• Floor Area Requirement

Scissor lifts are among the most compact aerial work platforms, while other aerial work platforms require a lot of floor space to operate. These lifts are easy to store because the total area required is about equal to the area of the lift-able platform.

• Customizable to Personal Liking

Depending on the industry, they may be needed to tailor the lift to meet the specific requirements. Scissor lifts can be customized to fit specific needs. Tilters can be added to reduce the chance of the operator falling. There may also be a need to add a turntable to it, which allows it to spin in addition to raising the platform.

• Economic

Scissors are undoubtedly the most cost-effective and versatile option among all other options. A single vertical lift may service a full warehouse. Hydraulic lifts also require nearly no energy, enhancing their efficiency.

​2. Advantages of Scissor Lifts The advantages of scissor lifts include:

• Improve Productivity

Scissor lifts are advantageous in palletizing and loading activities. They also help in setting the work surface at the right height. They shorten cycle times while increasing loading efficiency.

• Reduce Workplace Injuries

Back injuries related to heavy lifting commonly lead to time losses. A scissor lift is a way to raise goods to the required height. Offloading heavy goods, for example, necessitates repetitive, heavy lifting of the products from the pallet to the table. In this case, a lift table can place the pallet at table height, alleviating the worker's weight. This eliminates the strain of lifting in both the vertical and horizontal planes. If safety instructions are followed properly, scissor lifts can lessen the risk of acute injuries associated with heavy lifting.

• Enhance Process Ergonomics

Scissor lifts are easily adjustable so each operator can use a preferred height. A scissor lift does not only enhance repetitious stacking and loading chores but also makes the process more ergonomic. A scissor lift decreases the requirement for bending and twisting to adapt to table height. Scissor lifts, also known as lift tables, are the best solution for vertical lifting and material and personnel. They increase work productivity at the same time lowering the risk of injury on the job. A scissor lift can be used as a pallet positioner, for lifting and positioning operations, or for transferring cargo, making the job faster and safer.

• Access High Places and Difficult-to-Reach Areas

Because some lifts can reach heights of up to 32 feet, this is a tool that allows employees to reach areas that would otherwise be difficult to access. Height and carrying capacity, of course, go hand in hand with overall weight. As a result, the heavier the lift is, the higher the height it can reach and the more weight it can lift.

• User-Friendly

These lifts are especially simple to use. The controls are straightforward and virtually foolproof, reducing operator fatigue. This also implies that operators may be taught the usage of this technology in just a few days, allowing it to work quickly.

• Compact Dimensions

A scissor lift is the tiniest type of aerial work platform to ever come across. This is critical in confined places, such as event rooms or tightly packed warehouses, where stacked crates limit access to the ceiling.

• Floor Area Requirement

Scissor lifts are among the most compact aerial work platforms, while other aerial work platforms require a lot of floor space to operate. These lifts are easy to store because the total area required is about equal to the area of the lift-able platform.

• Customizable to Personal Liking

Depending on the industry, they may be needed to tailor the lift to meet the specific requirements. Scissor lifts can be customized to fit specific needs. Tilters can be added to reduce the chance of the operator falling. There may also be a need to add a turntable to it, which allows it to spin in addition to raising the platform.

• Economic

Scissors are undoubtedly the most cost-effective and versatile option among all other options. A single vertical lift may service a full warehouse. Hydraulic lifts also require nearly no energy, enhancing their efficiency.
 
CONSIDERATIONS WHEN CHOOSING A SCISSOR LIFT
The considerations when selecting scissor lifts include:

• Dimensions - Select a lift that will fit into the available area (ceilings, doorways, etc.). Fold-down guardrails provide more versatility and a control box with remote capability. Consider whether a lift that can accommodate more than one employee is required. Some scissor lifts are only designed to accommodate one person at a time.

 

• Height - The platform height plus six feet equals the working height. As a result, the actual working height will vary based on the worker's height and arm length. The operational height of some scissor lifts is included in the product number.

 

• Working Conditions on the Jobsite - Scissor lifts, like forklifts, have a variety of wheel options. The small wheels are appropriate if the scissor lift will be used solely indoors or on flat, smooth surfaces. Consider larger tires built for uneven terrain for outdoor applications or applications where the lift must go between buildings.

 

• Safety Features - Simple features like tilt warnings and anti-rollback help to prevent tragic tragedies. When the platform is raised, some scissor lifts automatically reduce maximum travel speed to help minimize tip-overs when the operator is in a hurry.

 

• Lift and Lower Speeds - The speed at which the lift rises and falls significantly impacts production.

 

• Safe Working Load - Any time personnel are hoisted with tools and equipment, there is a capacity limit, which must be strictly adhered to for the safety of everyone on the job. Users should know a few facts about the project before deciding on weight capacity. Users should have a decent sense of how much weight is to be lifted before beginning.

 

• Platform Size - Scissor lift platforms are available in a variety of sizes, most of which are rectangular in shape, but square ones do exist. If the platform isn't wide enough, the extension deck, which is standard on all new modern scissor lifts, becomes quite useful.

 

• Operator Controls - The lift's controls should be simple and precise. The easier the lift is to move, the less time the operator will spend situating it.