Platform lifts allow work at height to be carried out safely on all types of terrain and in all situations. It can sometimes be difficult to know which type of machine is best suited to the requirements of a particular project, but the truth is that there is always a suitable type of platform for each case.
A very common challenge when working at height is when it is not possible to park the platform directly below the work site, or even close to it. In these cases we need a machine that gives us horizontal reach. Platforms that meet this requirement are articulated boom and telescopic boom platforms.
Knowing this, we must choose which of these two types of platform is most suitable for us. To do this, we must take into account the characteristics and limitations of the work. The most relevant are:
Indoors or outdoors?
If working indoors, a battery-powered platform should be used to avoid harmful emissions. Telescopic booms should be ruled out, as only electric models are available for articulated booms.
Outdoors, diesel platforms should be used. It is also possible to use a battery-powered platform, but these require a completely level and regular pavement to work properly and a 220V battery charging point is also required, conditions that are almost never found in outdoor spaces.
What does the obstacle look like and how far and where is it located from the workplace?
When the obstacle is low and can be easily overcome with an articulated platform, it is preferable to opt for this type of platform. If, on the other hand, we need to move the platform further away from the work site, it is better to use a platform with a telescopic arm.
In the technical data sheet of the platforms you can consult the working arc, where you can clearly see the distances that can be covered. In the graph, the shaded area indicates the working area.
Articulated single-arm working arc
On an articulated platform, the point of articulation must be taken into account to determine if the obstacle can be overcome.
The working arc also indicates that this model can work in negative, i.e. below ground level. All models of this type of platform offer this possibility.
Example of a working arc graph of an articulated boom platform
Telescopic single-arm working arc
The telescopic models offer the longest reach. The arm is fully rigid, without articulation, which allows working at a greater distance from the work site. Some models also have the option of working in negative.
The two shaded areas indicate the maximum permissible load capacity depending on the boom extension.
Example of a working arc diagram of a telescopic boom platform
Which one to choose if both types of platform are suitable?
There are some cases in which both articulated and telescopic boom platforms can do the job. In these cases, it is always advisable to choose the platform that is most comfortable depending on other characteristics.
To help you with this choice and in any of the cases, at Universal Plataformas Aéreas we have sales technicians with more than 20 years of experience in the sector, who will advise you on the selection of the most suitable machinery for your needs. Do not hesitate to consult us about the specific requirements of your project.