The knuckle boom crane is quite similar to a regular crane with one main distinction. The boom is capable of folding back like a finger. In essence, the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the middle. This enables the machine to be able to transform into a compact size for maneuvering and storage.
Knuckle boom crane arms are quite 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 back of the cab. This leaves the whole bed of the truck empty.
Smaller types of knuckle boom cranes could be used without a licensed crane operator, if the load capacity of the equipment is less than 15,000 pounds or if the boom's maximum length is less than 25 feet long.
There are different kinds of control systems for the cranes. Like for example, there is radio remote control, control from the ground, stand up and seated control. The radio remote systems are capable of running the crane and starting it. Additionally, many models come outfitted with a computer readout system that immediately provides system readouts reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Snorkel Personnel Lifts are designed for contractors and facilities maintenance professionals. These lifts are portable, affordable, lightweight work platforms made to be utilized indoor. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel provides excellent reach and superb stability. This system, used in the UL Series, provides excellent lift capacity.
The Snorkel PAM Series and UL Series Personnel lifts have been designed and built so as to be easy for one person to utilize. These machines are easy to transport. They can easily be pushed into position smoothly and pass through a regular sized doorway. These lifts are capable of being erected in minutes and can provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they are an efficient alternative to scaffold towers.