Boom Lift vs. Scissor Lift: Which One Does Your Project Need?

Working at height on any given project the correct type of lift will either make or break the job, the two common types you will run into are a boom lift and a scissor lift; both will raise you to height safely but are different in the way they work. A boom lift resembles a large arm that is able to extend out to height and a scissor lift is able to elevate you straight up and also extend horizontally, depending on the project you are on the type of lift will differ between them both. At Luchang, we believe in the correct equipment for every job

How to choose between the two

One of the biggest factors in deciding on what lift is correct is the height/reach of the lift you are working at. A boom lift is capable of reaching to over 150 ft and can reach horizontally giving it a huge benefit over a scissor lift. Working on a high building with a window that has to be reached at an extreme height without the ability to reach it from the ground the boom lift is ideal. However a scissor lift will generally lift the operator to 30 to 50 ft and it would be more appropriate for working on a high roof space, working at a similar height to that but more of a large flat surface

Another huge part to consider would be the weight that you are required to lift. A scissor lift is able to bear much more weight on the platform at a given height, meaning if you have large amounts of tools, equipment and people to lift the scissor lift may be an ideal option. Boom lifts are still capable of lifting substantial weights, although their strengths lie in being able to reach otherwise unreachable places. Take into account how many people will be up on the lift with you, and if it will have to be loaded up with many tools

This is where the lift plays a part

Safety is one of the biggest factors and all types of lifts will come fitted with certain things to allow the operator to remain safe while working at height, though it is important to look at the user manual of whatever lift you are using, as the regulations vary from model to model. All boom lifts will come with harness and rails fitted to them to help prevent you from falling off at high height, a scissor lift would be fitted with a safety rail around the perimeter of the platform; an electric scissor lift elevates the user up vertically and can sometimes be more stable, what the worker feels is appropriate for the job is different in many cases and safety equipment such as a harness may need to be fitted

The working environment must also be a factor in deciding what lift you need. As previously stated above a scissor lift is a better fit for restricted spaces and boom lifts require a larger workspace. Boom lifts can extend over any obstacle but scissor lifts generally cannot

The buying of and distribution of these items for a client requires a full understanding of boom lifts and scissor lifts and the benefits they provide to the customer. The clients needs are always the biggest factor, if the customer has regular work that needs to be completed at high levels or would benefit from reaching over obstacles then it is likely that boom lifts will offer better value for money. Boom lifts are generally more expensive than scissor lifts as they are more complex due to having a large number of mechanical parts, hydraulic systems and design features

Maintenance costs are a key issue, and Boom lifts generally have higher maintenance requirements due to the nature of their design; scissor lifts generally require very little maintenance. Buying regularly for your clients requires a commitment to quality items which will give them reliability at a minimal repair rate, Luchang is one such company that sells various types of quality lifts with professional advice

Boom lift vs. Scissor lift-When is one better than the other

If you need to work at high levels on any particular job, there are two different lifts that you are likely to require to perform well; these are the boom lift and scissor lift. A boom lift is a long arm lift that excels at high levels, enabling you to work at heights above your intended location, reaching over buildings and obstacles making it perfect for this purpose. The scissor lift on the other hand works vertically from the ground, and is ideal for working from the roof down, and is the perfect option for working on ceilings or tall walls; they are stable on flat ground and perfect for indoor use. How much you require of one lift over the other depends solely on what the job you are working on needs from it, if you need more width to get across areas then it is a boom lift, if straight vertical use then it is a scissor lift, safety is key and should be the first priority at all times

Choosing the right lift for the job site

Choosing the right lift for your job site seems complex, but there are certain easy factors that make the decision rather clear-cut. Firstly, the maximum height that you will require to reach; this should be the most significant factor when looking for a lift. Boom lifts are capable of higher heights than scissor lifts, so you will require a boom lift when working at height on a tall building, or for working on roofs. Next, you should consider what space you have available; boom lifts may not be suitable if you are working on the interior of an existing building or in a confined workspace as they may require much more space to maneuver; however they will work best in space with more open area, which you will be able to use to move about in. Finally, when choosing a lift you must look at the weight limit it is able to carry; you will want to use a scissor lift if you have many large components or several people that need to be carried, it has higher weight capacity than a boom lift. Boom lifts also cannot maneuver as well on certain surfaces and do not perform well on very uneven surfaces. Luchang has a wide selection of quality lifts available and can provide expert advice to ensure you have the best one

So where do we go when we have to purchase or rent a Boom Lift or Scissor Lift affordably

The purchase or rental of either of these equipment is a very important decision and the place you get it from should be trustworthy. The place which gives both purchasing and rental option with a fair rent pricing is Luchang. This is a worthwhile place if you require to purchase/rent either Boom Lift or Scissor lift, for in Luchang they have a very decent pricing structure for rent. When renting a lift, it makes more sense, as you do not need to bother about its maintenance and storage and there is also quite a wide variety available to choose from. Luchang will guide you for both purchasing a correct equipment for your work and even help you to purchase it at a really good price. All their equipment are maintained and are always in working condition and they are even safe to operate. Always check for seasonal offers for if purchased during off peak season, you tend to gain more benefit