When purchasing a commercial bucket truck, one of the specifications that is commonly considered is the manufacturer. The demand for bucket trucks have sky-rocketed because of their durability and dependability when carrying workers to different working heights.
The history and origin of this vehicle started many years ago when there was a strong demand for its use in picking fruit at the tops of the trees in an orchard. This is why one of the common nicknames for this equipment is “cherry picker.” This aerial lift device is also very helpful in reaching heights for which ladder usage is unsafe. The following information will hopefully provide some basic knowledge about a bucket truck, its uses, and the evolutional advances that have been made to stay current with the rapid strides of modern technology.
Function
There are many questions pertaining to the function of this equipment. Basically, to erase any confusion about its function, this mechanical device is designed to deliver a temporary channel for workers to access hard-to-reach areas, usually heights. Regardless of its function, an aerial lift device may have different features designed specifically for individual applications aside from transportation and access. They have built-in electrical outlets for power tools on the platform and may also be equipped with gadgets that are used to carry window frames, chainsaws, and many other tools.
Lifting Mechanism
Generally, workers use the platform to reach desired working heights. They can stand on it to safely perform the task. The main differences in a modern bucket truck are the control mechanisms which elevate the platform to various heights. Aerial platforms are commonly controlled and powered by a hydraulic system or sometimes a pneumatic system. Control systems can be installed both on the bucket and the truck itself for comfort. Maneuvering the boom in various directions is very easy and can be done with great precision.
Boom Specifications
The most important part of any aerial lift is the boom. There are various types of booms, such as telescopic, knuckle, and Z-type. They also come in a number of safe working loads (SWL) and have limited lifting capacity, commonly less than one tonnage. Because of its control system, the boom can be fully operated by a single person. In addition, it is equipped with various reaching capacities depending on the nature of the tasks to be performed. Articulated lifts for firefighting have a higher reaching capacity in order to access tall buildings.
Uses
Modern aerial lifts are still used for harvesting fruit in the orchard; however, they have also proven to be effective for other applications due to the technological evolution of the device. This vehicle is used extensively in the telecommunication and electric industry to install and repair power lines or overhead lines. They are also used in tree trimming and removal (arboriculture) to provide access to hard-to-reach tree branches. This equipment is also used by firefighters around the world due to its accuracy in control and lifting efficiency. Other uses of this vehicle include: decorating, window cleaning, painting, installation of billboard signs, and in the entertainment industry.
There are several models of bucket trucks that come with various features and are utilized for multiple applications. The lifting mechanism and boom specifications must be taken into consideration when choosing the model that is best for a company. Safety should also be considered since it has a significant impact on productivity and company profitability. Knowing and understanding the function of a bucket truck and how it is used will certainly help workers and operators get a good grasp on the importance of aerial lift devices ability to lift workers to various working heights!
