The knuckle boom crane is somewhat similar to a typical crane with one key difference. The boom is capable of folding back like a finger. In essence, the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the middle. This enables the machinery to be able to transform into a compact size for storage and maneuvering.
Knuckle boom crane arms are somewhat a bit lighter compared to boom truck cranes. These crane arms are made to enable more payloads to be lifted on the back of the vehicle it is mounted on. Most knuckle boom cranes are mounted at the rear of the cab. This leaves the whole bed of the truck empty.
Smaller models of knuckle boom cranes could be used without a licensed crane operator, if the load capacity of the machine is less than 15,000 pounds or if the boom's maximum length is less than 25 feet long.
Control systems for these cranes are usually different. Some could control from the ground, radio remote control, stand up and seated control. The radio remote systems could run the crane and starting it. Furthermore, many models come outfitted with a computer readout system that immediately provides system readouts reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Personnel lifts designed by Snorkel have been made to help maintenance professionals and contractors carry out tasks at elevated heights. These lifts are lightweight, portable, inexpensive work platforms made to be utilized indoor. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel delivers superb flexibility and excellent reach. This system, used in the UL Series, provides great lift capacity.
Snorkel's PAM Series and UL Series Personnel lifts are made so that just one person is required to operate the machines. These machines are easy to transport. They could easily be pushed smoothly into position and pass through a standard sized doorway. These lifts are capable of being erected in minutes and could provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they really are an effective alternative to scaffold towers.