Carrying out some high-altitude work requires calling special vehicles – aerial platforms. They are used in construction, housing and communal services and some other areas. With the help of such transport, buildings and non-residential structures are repaired, telecommunication lines are laid, electrical networks and lighting are maintained.
What types of aerial platforms are there?
Washing windows, trimming tree branches, installing advertising – all this requires the use of a bucket truck. It should be taken into account that it is necessary to lift not only the specialist, but also his tool. Therefore, there are several types of this special equipment, which are reliable and safe. They differ from each other in the features of the lifting mechanism. These could be:
- telescopic towers. Such lifts are capable of lifting a person to a fairly large height. But the main advantage of this technology is its ease of control. The tower is lifted using a remote control or from the transport cabin. The remote control can send a signal over a distance of about 60 meters. Another advantage of telescopic towers is their accuracy. They are able to deliver the load to exactly the intended place without deviating. The most advanced achievements of scientists were used in the development of these mechanisms. Modern aerial platforms are equipped with a computer security system that will prevent incorrect operator actions. In case of dangerous human error, the lift will be stopped;
- articulated aerial platforms. They are distinguished by their reliability, simplicity and relatively low cost. Working with this mechanism does not require special skills, but the maximum height to which they can rise, as a rule, does not exceed 20 meters. Such aerial platforms are compact in size, making them suitable for use in tight spaces;
- combined aerial platforms. This type of tower was created by combining the advantages of the two types listed above. At the same time, their existing shortcomings were eliminated. The result is a technology that is optimally suited for lifting people and tools to the desired height, even in tight spaces with lots of obstructions. Its disadvantage is its complexity in management and high cost.
- vertical aerial platforms. They are considered the most primitive, so it is almost impossible to meet them on city streets. Their lifting mechanism only works vertically, and it will not be possible to make turns or maneuvers with such towers. As a result, they are more often used in warehouses and when inspecting power lines. This mechanism also has one advantage – high load capacity.
Characteristics of automobile towers.
Regardless of type, all aerial platforms have some common properties. For example:
• the tower is controlled using a hydraulic mechanism;
• the use of special stops – outriggers is mandatory;
• a person must be in a special cradle – a fenced area.