A boom lift is an aerial lift platform supported by a hydraulic arm that enables individuals to work at height. The basic boom lift types are articulating — which features arms that bend to facilitate navigation around objects — and telescopic, which have straight arms that provide a higher weight capacity but less maneuverability than an articulating boom lift.
What is a jib on a boom lift?
“Jib” is a term used to describe the arm on an articulating boom lift. Jib booms include an additional articulation point that provides greater range of motion for the aerial platform. Depending on the model, jib booms enable the platform to move up or down or from side to side, which is beneficial when working in confined areas.
The term “man lift” is often used interchangeably with “aerial lift” as a general way to describe the lift platforms designed to enable people to work safely at height. Man lifts can encompass both types of boom lifts as well as scissor lifts, vertical personnel lifts and spider lifts (compact aerial lift platforms featuring a lightweight design for maximum maneuverability).
A telescopic boom lift is equipped with a telescoping beam that can raise the platform up or down as needed. Telescopic boom lifts offer greater horizontal reach than any other aerial lift platform, which makes them the preferred choice for construction and industrial job sites where limited access is an issue.
How high do boom lifts go?
The lift capacity of a boom lift will depend on the make, model and type. Telescopic boom lifts can reach greater heights than their articulating counterparts. While many models can safely lift personnel or equipment to a height of 130 feet, you can now purchase a telescopic boom lift with a capacity of up to 185 feet.
How much is it to buy a boom lift?
A boom lift generally costs more than a scissor lift. Factors that impact cost include working height, horizontal reach, weight capacity, engine type and whether the machine can maneuver on rough terrain. Purchase prices can also vary widely from one manufacturer to another, so it can be beneficial to explore several options, including new vs. used boom lifts.
Many companies choose to rent instead of purchase a boom lift to fulfill a temporary equipment need. While rates will vary depending on the size and type of boom lift and the company from which you are renting the unit, expect to pay up to $400 per day or $1,500 per week for a smaller model.