1. Hydraulic Scissor Lifts
Key Features:
- Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Ideal for warehouses, construction sites, and infrastructure projects.
- The “scissor” mechanism, with its cross-braced design, provides stability and smooth operation.
How It Works:
The operator activates the power supply, and hydraulic fluid is pumped into the cylinders, extending the scissor legs and lifting the platform. To lower the platform, the fluid is returned to the reservoir, retracting the legs.
Applications:
- Moving goods between different floor levels in buildings.
- Lightweight and compact models are used for transporting items within factories or workshops.
2. Diesel-Powered Scissor Lifts
Diesel scissor lifts are powered by traditional diesel engines, making them robust and powerful but less environmentally friendly due to noise and exhaust emissions.
Key Features:
- Larger platforms and higher load capacities.
- Ideal for outdoor construction sites or well-ventilated indoor areas.
- Diesel fuel is cost-effective and provides high torque at low RPMs.
Applications:
- Heavy-duty tasks on construction sites.
- Rough terrain models are designed to handle uneven surfaces.
Hybrid Models:
Some diesel scissor lifts feature hybrid powertrains, allowing them to operate in enclosed environments while maintaining their power and durability.
3. Electric Scissor Lifts
Electric scissor lifts are environmentally friendly, powered by batteries instead of combustion engines. They are perfect for indoor use due to their quiet operation and zero emissions.
Key Features:
- Compact design with narrow platforms.
- Non-marking tires to protect floors.
- Lower load capacities compared to diesel or gas-powered lifts.
Applications:
- Indoor maintenance and light-duty tasks.
- Smaller models can be transported or towed between job sites.
Durability:
Electric scissor lifts are built with all-steel construction and twin shear scissor stacks, ensuring rigidity and long-term performance.
4. Rough Terrain Scissor Lifts
Rough terrain scissor lifts are designed for challenging outdoor environments, powered by diesel, petrol, or LPG engines.
Key Features:
- Enhanced traction and higher travel speeds.
- Four-wheel drive (4WD) for navigating uneven surfaces.
- High-performance tires for stability on steep gradients.
Applications:
- Elevating personnel and materials on construction sites.
- Ideal for rugged environments where standard lifts cannot operate.
Gradeability:
This refers to the maximum slope a rough terrain scissor lift can handle, making it suitable for steep inclines and uneven ground.
5. Pneumatic Scissor Lifts
Pneumatic scissor lifts are driven by air pressure, offering a clean and low-maintenance alternative to hydraulic or electric models.
Key Features:
- Eco-friendly, with no harmful emissions.
- Simple operation with no electrical or hydraulic systems.
- Airbags or air compressors control the lifting mechanism.
Applications:
- Smaller-scale tasks in indoor environments.
- Positioning pallets for easy access during loading and unloading.
Ease of Use:
The platform height is adjusted using a lever, and smooth rotation is achieved through ball bearing center pivots.