Scissor lift cranes tend to be a common sight at construction sites. These cranes are designed to offer safety and stability while the workers get close to fixing wires and carrying out other important tasks at high elevations. Considering their importance, it is only right that we discuss scissor lifts in detail, which types of these cranes are usually available with small crane rentals, and see what makes them stand apart.

Types Of Scissor Lift Cranes

Hydraulic

As the term suggests, hydraulic scissor cranes are operated by a hydraulic that is either hand-operated or engine-driven. The hydraulics are filled with oil and the pressure inside helps operate the lift – move up and down. The biggest advantage of using a hydraulic scissor crane is that it does not require much training, which makes it an easy option to work with compared to the other types.

However, the downside to hydraulic scissor lifts is that the oil turns more viscous in lower temperatures. As a result, the pace of the cranes is slower in cold weather. So, these cranes are more suited to tasks and sites that do not require much speed and horsepower.

Diesel

Diesel scissor lifts tend to be the most common type found at commercial and house construction sites. These cranes are identified by their signature cross-braced system that allows the workers to reach heights of up to 30 feet. In fact, some models can even extend up to 60 feet.

The downside to using diesel scissor cranes is that since diesel is used, these cranes tend to be noisy and produce a lot of fumes. Therefore, from the green environment point of view, diesel scissor cranes are not the best option.

And plus, this is also why diesel scissor lift cranes are mostly found working at sites that are far away from housing societies where both noise and fumes cannot disturb people in the surrounding.

Electric

Unlike diesel scissor cranes, electric scissor cranes tend to be a lot more silent and use electricity to operate. Since these cranes do not produce much noise and fumes, they are mostly suited for indoor tasks. However, electric scissor cranes when compared to diesel scissor cranes are also less bulky.

Rough Terrain

Rough terrain cranes are specifically designed for unusual and rough terrains. Whether it’s snow, mud, gravel, rocks, or sand, these cranes are loaded with all the features and specifications to lift heavy loads keeping steady and balanced.

Rough terrain cranes are mostly used for construction sites that experience extreme or unexpected weather conditions and can elevate up to 50 feet. Plus, rough terrain cranes are powered by liquid, propane, diesel, gas, or dual fuel.

Pneumatic

Pneumatic airlifts have significantly increased in popularity over the years and for the right reasons. These cranes use air pressure for their lifting mechanism. As a result, there is hardly any noise or fumes produced. These factors make pneumatic cranes a more sustainable option for countries that are looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

However, a disadvantage of using pneumatic cranes is that they do not offer as much power as rough or diesel scissor cranes. This is why these types are mostly used in indoor facilities for renovation, installation, and removal purposes.

How Do I Choose the Right Type?

Choosing the right type of scissor lift crane depends on your needs, preferences, type of job, and location. While renting or purchasing a crane you should keep in mind these factors as dealing with heavy loads can be impossible when it’s cloudy or there is heavy rainfall.

In fact, professionals even account for the wind direction as strong winds can easily topple cranes. Furthermore, you should also keep in mind the area and location. In some cases, the cranes have to pass narrow streets and roads to reach the actual destination.

It is possible that a crane comes in contact with the power or telecommunication lines, damaging them. It could also be that the crane has to work on uneven and rough terrain with gravel and rocks etc. All these factors could influence the stability and functioning of the crane.

This is why it is better to study the conditions beforehand and match them with your needs and preferences to help narrow down the options.

Conclusion

Scissor lift cranes are an interesting human invention. They help carry out tasks both effectively and efficiently. Considering the types, it could be difficult to pick the right crane for rent DC. So, go through the information above to make a wise decision.