Outdoor Tracked Scissor Lifts vs. Traditional Scissor Lifts: Which is Better?
Scissor lifts have become a popular solution for any job that requires height. They allow workers to reach elevated workspaces and complete complex tasks safely. There are two main types of scissor lifts – traditional scissor lifts and outdoor tracked scissor lifts. While the traditional scissor lift has been around for years, the outdoor tracked scissor lift is a relatively new entrant to the market. Both scissor lifts have strengths and weaknesses. In this article, we will discuss each type of lift and help you decide which one is better for your needs.
Traditional Scissor Lift.
Traditional scissor lifts are most frequently seen in indoor environments such as schools, warehouses, offices, and shopping malls. They are favored for their maneuverability and small turning radius. Traditional scissor lifts are designed to be driven over smooth floors with door thresholds or slightly uneven surfaces. They are limited in their work outdoors because they operate on wheels that cannot maintain traction on wet surfaces, gravel, sand, or rocky terrain. Equipped with four or six wheels, traditional scissor lifts can be driven by electric, hydraulic or diesel motors. They can hold capacities ranging from 500 to 2,500 lbs and can reach heights from 10 to over 50 feet.
Outdoor Tracked Scissor Lift.
Outdoor tracked scissor lifts are designed for off-road terrain and harsh weather conditions. They operate on treads like a military tank instead of wheels. Because they are tracked, they can operate on uneven, sloping, rough, or muddy surfaces. Outdoor tracked scissor lifts are ideal for landscaping, tree trimming, agriculture, construction, and utility work. Tracked scissor lifts can hold heavier loads than traditional lifts, and their reach can be higher at up to 80 feet. They are powered by diesel engines and can work in temperatures ranging from -25 degrees to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Outdoor tracked scissor lifts are often heavier and bulkier than traditional ones and need wider access space to maneuver into position.
Pros and Cons.
Traditional scissor lifts have the benefit of maneuverability in tight and indoor spaces. They are less expensive to rent, and their mobility speed is faster than that of tracked lifts. They can be driven on paved surfaces, allowing workers to move between indoor and outdoor workspaces. However, traditional lifts have several limitations. They cannot work on uneven surfaces or slopes, and they require stable conditions for the outriggers to be deployed. They are not suitable for outdoor work that requires lifting heavy materials or workers to heights above 50 feet.
Outdoor tracked scissor lifts have rugged traction and operate on any terrain, making them versatile for any outdoor job that requires variable heights. They are designed for harsh weather, sturdy construction, and a high load capacity. Their strength is that they can handle any type of soil (e.g., sand, mud, or gravel) and rough terrain, including slopes up to 45 degrees. Their size and weight can cause access problems, but they are suitable for larger projects such as construction sites or utility work. Their tracks have an environmental bonus of not damaging the soil as they move across the land.
Which One is Better?
The answer to which scissor lift is better depends on the specific job requirements. Traditional scissor lifts are excellent for indoor work where there is a smooth surface, and the workspace is easily accessible. They are perfect for maintenance tasks or stocking shelves. Outdoor tracked scissor lifts are designed for off-road use and variable terrains. They allow users to reach greater heights and are ideal for larger construction projects or landscaping, where the job site can change frequently.
Contact Us.
If you are not sure which scissor lift is best for your project, please contact us. Our team at XYZ Rentals can help you choose the right scissor lift to meet your needs. Call us today to learn more.
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