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A Comprehensive Guide to Aerial Work Platforms

Apr 10, 2023

A Comprehensive Guide To Aerial Work Platforms

Aerial Work Platforms (AWPs) are a type of mechanical equipment used for high-altitude operations and are a subdivision of construction machinery. They have evolved from non-self-propelled platforms to self-propelled ones, becoming the industry leader today. In this article, we will discuss the classification of AWPs in detail.

Self-Propelled Hydraulic Drive Scissor Platform: This type of AWP uses a hydraulic motor as the driving force, comprising a motor, a hydraulic pump, and a hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor powers the machine when walking, while the hydraulic pump pumps and drains oil to the oil cylinder to control the scissor platform's lifting and lowering.

mobile work platform elevated aerial work platform -Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 8mobile work platform elevated aerial work platform -Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 9

Self-Propelled Electric Drive Scissor Platform: The structure of this type of AWP is similar to the hydraulic drive scissor platform, with the main difference being the walking power source. The electric drive scissor platform's walking power comes from the walking motor, which has two motors as actuators for the walking power. The steering includes hydraulic steering and differential steering. The scissor driving platform's lifting is controlled by the pump supplying oil to the oil cylinder. If the AWP has a motor and a reducer on the road wheel, it is an electric drive vehicle.

electric motro self propelled scissor lift-Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 1electric motro self propelled scissor lift-Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 2

All-terrain Scissor Aerial Work Platform: This AWP is suitable for complex working conditions and has a larger load capacity. It is available in electric drive and diesel off-road versions, with large tires, high ground clearance, and strong power. They generally have outrigger leveling functions during operations, providing greater operating height and carrying capacity.

Track craweler scissor lift-Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 6Track craweler scissor lift-Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 7

Articulated Boom Aerial Work Platform: This AWP has a completely different appearance from the scissor platform, with a crank arm composed of several folding arms. A flying arm is attached to the working platform, giving it a large operating range and flexible working methods. The power source is generally batteries and internal combustion engines, with an operating height range of 14 to 48 meters. The world's highest crank arm, released by Starbone, is 48 meters.

articulated telescopic self propelled boom lift-Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 2articulated telescopic self propelled boom lift-Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 3

Telescopic boom aerial work platform: This AWP has a different structure from the curved-arm truck, with a thicker chassis design and a flying arm. The power source is typically an internal combustion engine, and the operating height can reach up to 58 meters.

articulated telescopic self propelled boom lift-Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 1articulated telescopic self propelled boom lift-Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 4

Spider boom aerial work platform: This AWP has outriggers that extend outwards and resembles a spider in appearance. Its narrow car body provides better passability and stability, with a structure similar to a curved-arm truck. The power source is usually an internal combustion engine, and it requires a larger construction space to ensure stable work.

spider crawler boom lift spider crawler boom lift

Vehicle-Mounted Aerial Work Platform: This AWP is more flexible and convenient than the self-propelled AWP, making it common in China. The most commonly used equipment for repairing street lights on the roadside is the vehicle-mounted scissors, which uses a truck chassis as the basis. The development of this type of AWP has become increasingly diverse, with scissor and curved-arm versions available.

truck mounted boom lift truck mounted boom lift

Crawler-Type Scissor Aerial Work Platform: This type of AWP has adapted to the market in recent years, with crawler-type hydraulic or electric drive scissor platforms gradually appearing. The walking mode of crawler-type scissor platforms differs from traditional wheel-type mechanisms, making it possible to cross obstacles or muddy roads and achieve free steering and turning in circles. Controller manufacturers also customize flexible operation methods.

Track craweler scissor lift-Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 10Track craweler scissor lift-Shandong Cathay Machinery Co Ltd 12

In conclusion, understanding the classification of AWPs is crucial when selecting the most suitable machine for specific high-altitude operations. Each type of AWP has its unique features and applications, making them valuable additions to the construction machinery industry.

For more information about the aerial work platform. welcome to contact us. 

Shandong Cathay Machinery Co., Ltd 

www.cathaylift.com 

Email:sales@cathaylift.com

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