A knuckle boom crane looks like a standard crane. The key difference is that the boom can fold back similar to a finger since the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the center. This enables the machinery to be able to transform into a compact size for storage and maneuvering.
Knuckle boom crane arms are quite a bit lighter than boom truck cranes. These crane arms are made to allow more payloads to be lifted on the back of the vehicle it is mounted on. Nearly all knuckle boom cranes are mounted at the rear of the cab. This leaves the entire bed of the truck empty.
Interestingly enough, smaller kinds of knuckle boom cranes can be utilized without a certified crane operator, as long as the maximum capacity is less than 15,000 pounds or if the maximum boom length is less than 25 feet long.
Control systems for these cranes are normally different. Some can control from the ground, radio remote control, stand up and seated control. The radio remote systems could run the crane as well as starting it. Furthermore, many models come outfitted with a computer readout system which immediately provides system readouts reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Personnel lifts designed by Snorkel have been made to help contractors and maintenance professionals perform jobs at elevated heights. These lifts are inexpensive, lightweight, portable work platforms made for interior use. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel provides superb flexibility and excellent reach. This system, utilized in the UL Series, offers great lift capacity.
Snorkel's UL Series Personnel and PAM Series lifts are made so that only one individual is required to operate the equipment. These machinery are easy to transport. They can easily pass through a standard sized doorway and be pushed into position smoothly. These lifts can be erected in minutes and can provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they really are an effective option to scaffold towers.