articulated boom
Articulating boom in foreground, scissor lift in background
the boom lift is a member of the mewp family (mobile elevated work platform). it is significanty different from its operational counterpart, the scissor lift.
Articulating boom
Boom lifts come in a variety of powerplants; gas, diesel, propane, and electric. The electric is preferred in environments where fumes are an issue. Boom lifts can extend most commonly are used to perform task work at 20 - 50 feet (6-15 meters), but they also extend out to 185 feet (55 meters).
There are two types of boom lifts available; articulating and telescopic. An articulating boom lift has arms that can pivot (see the boom lift in the photo above). This allows a boom lift to work around fixed objects, and let the worker access the area by having the base unit sit fixed, while the articulating arm can get to the work area hydraulically.
A telescopic boom lift has a straight arm that extends out. (See below) It is used in areas where the boom can work over an obstacle. They usually have much higher weight capacities than an articulated boom, but they are not as agile and maneuverable as an articulated boom.
Telescopic 85 foot boom lift
45 foot boom
Typically, a boom lift is used when you need to go up and around, and a scissor lift is used when you need to go straight up, and there are no obstructions in the way.
It is more common to see scissor lifts used in indoor applications, where a structure has a working surface and access is not an issue, and larger pieces of equipment need to be installed by multiple workers on a large platform. The boom lift is more suited towards one or two laborers needed to perform a task in an area that has access restrictions. The basket does not allow for excessive weight, or large/bulky items to install.
Articulating boom in typical construction scenario
Towable boom
