What is a Scissor Lift?

A scissor lift is a device used by auto repair shops to extend or position a platform by mechanical means.  The term “Scissor” comes from the mechanism utilized which is configured with a linked, folding support in a crisscross “X” pattern.  The extension or displacement motion is achieved by applying force to one of the supports resulting and elongation of the crossing pattern.

Industrial lifts have traditionally been in use in manufacturing and production settings to raise and lower people, work pieces and materials. The scissor lift, sometimes known as a table lift, is an industrial lift that has been modified for retail and wholesale settings. In basic terms, the scissor lift is a platform with wheels that acts like a forklift. In a non-industrial setting, the scissor lift is useful for completing tasks which require the speed, mobility and transporting of people and material above ground level.

Quick points about the scissor lift:

• The scissor lift is unique in that is doesn’t use a straight support to raise workers into the air. Rather, the scissor lift platform raises when the linked folding supports underneath it draw together, stretching upward.
• Allows dock workers to reach inaccessible areas, move heavy freight more easily, and minimize employee strain and injuries.
• Machine widths start from as little as 32 inches.
• Working heights range from 5.79 mtr (19 ft) to machines in excess of 18.29 mtr (60ft).
• Can be used to work indoors or outdoors. There are battery fuelled lifts for indoor/outdoor use and diesel lifts for outdoor use only.
• Can work on a variety of different surface types. For an indoor marble floor, a rubber tyre lift could be used. For a building site, a rough terrain lift could be used.
• Can allow anywhere from 1 to 7 people to work on them. Capacities range from 227 kg (500 lbs) to 1134 kg (2500 lbs).
• Very simple to use, increasing productivity levels.
• Can be stationary or mobile, so they can be used for a number of different jobs.
• When fully retracted, these machines are very easy to store and they do not take up much space.
• If you have a problem, spare parts are always readily available from the majority of manufacturers/suppliers.
• Scissor lifts are very reliable.

Bowlin Enterprises is a local Bristol RI company that sells scissor lifts throughout the USA.