The knuckle boom crane is somewhat like a typical crane with one main distinction. The boom is capable of folding back similar to a finger. In essence, the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the center. This allows the machinery to be able to transform into a compact size for maneuvering and storage.
Knuckle boom crane arms are somewhat a little 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 behind the cab. This leaves the entire bed of the truck empty.
Interestingly enough, smaller types of knuckle boom cranes can be used without a licensed 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.
There are various types of control systems for the cranes. Like for example, there is control from the ground, radio remote control, stand up and seated control. The radio remote systems could operate the crane as well as starting it. Additionally, a lot of models come equipped 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 facilities maintenance professionals and contractors. These lifts are lightweight, portable, affordable work platforms made for interior use. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel delivers superb flexibility and excellent reach. This system, used in the UL Series, offers excellent lift capacity.
The Snorkel PAM Series and UL Series Personnel lifts have been designed and built in order to be easy for one person to use. These machinery could be transported easily. They could easily pass through a standard sized doorway and be pushed smoothly into position. These lifts could be erected in minutes and being able to provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they really are an effective alternative to scaffold towers.