Heavy Equipment Repair in or near Pittsburgh PA

When you take on a new job and need equipment you are not entirely familiar with, it can be hard to make the decision. Articulating boom lifts and straight boom lifts are similar pieces of equipment, so it can be difficult to choose between these two. When making a decision like this, it all comes down to the job the machine will be doing and the environment in which it will be performing.

An articulating boom lift is separated into multiple boom sections that bend at what is called knuckles. Articulating booms are often called knuckle booms. This articulating ability makes it easy for the platform to maneuver up, around, over, and under obstacles. Unlike the straight boom lift, the articulating boom lift allows the operator to access hard to reach areas. It is for this reason that articulating boom lifts are extremely useful in narrow places with many obstacles or when you need to get up and over obstacles like the edge of a tall building.

A straight boom lift on the other hand has telescoping boom sections that extend upward and outward. It does not bend or articulate. Because the arm of the straight boom lift only extends outward, it needs more room at the base to move around. This machine is separated into two sections that utilize hydraulics to remain stable.

When choosing between renting an articulating boom lift and renting a straight boom lift, you need to take into considering what type of environment you will be working with. If there will be many objects in a tight space, you will want to choose an articulating boom lift. This will help you move around objects to get the job done without knocking things over or potentially tipping the machine.

However, if the environment you will be working in is open and you do not have to get up and over objects while extended, you’ll most likely want to go with the straight boom as it will give you better extended out reach. Before you decide, there are other factors to consider.

Straight boom lifts can typically reach greater heights than the articulating boom lift. Before making your decision, find out exactly how high you need to go. Boom lifts can reach anywhere from 20 feet all the way up 185 feet, so find out what reach you will need for your job and research the maximum heights of the boom lifts available for rent.

If you are planning on working inside, the articulating boom lift is usually the best option for that environment. An articulating boom lift prevents the use of scaffolding or ladders. This is good because these are unsteady and not a feasible option at certain heights. Either machine can work outside. Electric boom lifts are the best choice for indoor work as well, as they are emissions free.

Contemplate what your boom lift will be used for. Straight boom lifts are more stable and therefore can reach greater heights. This is perfect for projects where you might be moving work materials or maneuvering on rough terrain. Flexibility and the ability to maneuver around obstacles are specialties of the articulating boom lift.

If you are looking to rent a boom lift, contact us for more information. If you describe to us the job you are taking on, we will be happy to recommend a machine. We offer a variety of boom lifts to fit every job and environment.