How to choose an aerial platform for your project: what to consider and what to pay attention to
A bucket truck is an indispensable tool, but if you choose the wrong one, you can easily turn it from an assistant into a burden. Imagine, I ordered equipment with a small height, but I have to reach the very top. To prevent this from happening, it is important to immediately understand what parameters are needed specifically for your project. Let's start with the height - it ranges from 18 meters for basic work to 54 meters for more serious projects. However, in addition to height, there are other nuances that should be taken into account.
Do not forget that aerial platforms differ not only in lifting height, but also in the characteristics of the boom. This can be either a telescopic or an articulated design. Telescopic ones are good for direct lifting, while articulated ones are good for working in difficult conditions where you need to go around obstacles. You can find out more at skylift.
What parameters are important when choosing an aerial platform ?
So, to successfully select an aerial platform, you need to evaluate several key parameters. In order not to get lost in the sea of characteristics, stick to this list:
Lifting height - don’t just eyeball it, measure in advance what point you need to get to.
Boom type - telescopic for direct lifting, cranked - for bypassing obstacles.
Loading capacity - calculate how much everything you lift with you will weigh.
Passability is an important point if you plan to use the equipment on rough terrain.
These parameters will help you quickly make a choice and avoid surprises on the work site.
Telescopic or articulated boom: what to choose for the job at a height?
When it comes to choosing the type of boom for an aerial platform, it is important to take into account the features of the project and the conditions in which the work will be carried out.
Telescopic an arrowis a structure that can extend in a straight line, like a telescope. It is an ideal choice for applications where straight vertical or horizontal lifting is required. For example, such aerial platforms are suitable for servicing tall buildings or installing advertising structures, where the work site is accessible without obstacles. Telescopic towers are considered easy to operate, which makes them especially convenient for working at significant heights.
An articulated boom, on the contrary, consists of several sections connected hinges, which allows it to bend at different angles. This makes it more maneuverable and suitable for tasks in cramped conditions. An articulated aerial platform can go around a building or tree and reach hard-to-reach areas while remaining safe and stable. Such towers are often used for installing equipment in urban environments, repairing power lines, or working in areas with obstacles.
How to choose a bucket truck depending on the specific task?
The selection of an aerial platform depends on a number of factors, including height, boom features and working site conditions:
For construction sites and installation of large structures: If work is to be done on high altitude or high load capacity is required, it is better to choose a telescopic aerial platform. This type of equipment is ideal for lifting workers and materials to heights, providing maximum stability and safety even in strong gusts of wind.
For work on rough terrain or off-road conditions : It is important that the equipment has increased maneuverability and stability. In such cases, models with a reinforced base and special chassis adapted for rough terrain are suitable. A wheelbase with shock absorbers or a tracked aerial platform will help maintain stability on uneven ground.
To maintain urban infrastructure and facilities in cramped conditions: Urban conditions require equipment with increased maneuverability, which can bypass obstacles and work in confined spaces. Towers with cranked booms perform well here. They will allow you to safely go around the corners of buildings, supports and other obstacles.
Practical tips for renting an aerial platform
When renting an aerial platform, you should pay attention to the following points in order the rental was profitable and safe:
Assessing the condition of the equipment: Before renting, make sure that the aerial platform is in good condition. It is best to choose a company with a modern fleet, as new equipment will be more reliable and safe.
Checking operator qualifications: An experienced operator can greatly simplify and speed up work. It will not only ensure accuracy of work, but also reduce the risk of breakdowns or emergency situations. Find out from the company who will manage the tower and ask to see their experience.
Discuss the terms of the lease: Before signing the contract, check whether the work is included operator in the rental price, or is it a payment