A lift table is a hydraulically-powered lifting device that using a scissors mechanism to raise or lower heavy machinery or products over short distances. Lift tables – which are sometimes called scissor lifts – are commonly used for pallet maneuvering, vehicle loading and positioning heavy equipment.
Lift tables are also credited with helping limit bending over to work on equipment. For example, in woodworking or metalworking, the constant need to bend over to work on furniture or equipment that hasn’t been lifted is hard on the back, and over time, can result in musculoskeletal disorders. Plus, another advantage: Lift tables are the perfect choice when overhead cranes, hoists or forklifts can’t be utilized for safety or space reasons.
Are you considering buying a lift table? There are many considerations to make when buying a hydraulic lift table. Choosing an improper type can result in damage to the lift, or will limit its functionality.
How Do Lift Tables Work?
Lift tables have two pairs of scissor struts, which can be opened or closed to lift a heavy load. The lifting action comes from hydraulic cylinders mounted under the struts. These cylinders provide a great deal of force, enabling quick, efficient lifting.
There are many different ways the cylinders can be engaged. There are electronic, pneumatic, and manual options. The manual lift tables are the most cost-effective and they are utilized most frequently for mid-range capacities of up to 700 Kg loads. Typically, heavy-duty vehicle lift tables are electronically or pneumatically powered. Manual lift tables are generally activated using a foot pump or hand crank.
Lift Tables: Considerations
When purchasing a hydraulic lift table, you should consider the load capacity, height in operation, and the unit’s mobility, as well as other features.
- Lift Capacity: Lift tables are designed to hoist loads of a specific weight. Lift tables range in capacity from 300 kg up to 3000 kg or more. It’s important to match the unit’s lift capacity to that of the object you will be lifting. Overloading the table may damage the struts and overwork the hydraulic cylinders.
- Unit Mobility: Lift tables are either designed for fixed or flexible installation. Fixed installation lift tables are generally high capacity units that are designed for installation in auto garages and on production lines. Mobile units have wheels or are lightweight enough to move by hand.
- Height: You should consider both the lift height, which is the maximum height the load can be lifted when engaged, as well as the folded height. It’s best to choose a maximum lift height that is greater than the most common height you will be lifting loads to; this will help extend the life of the unit. Additionally, the folded height should be considered when there are space restrictions.
- Duty Cycle: The units “duty cycle” is the frequency that it is designed to lift a load. For example, many units are not designed to lift loads dozens of time per hour. Maxing out the duty cycle can lead to faster wear and tear, and limit the unit’s functionality. If you need a unit that will be used to lift frequently, i.e. many times per hour, you should consider a unit with a rapid duty cycle.
- Load Positioning: Many lift tables have tilt or rational functionalities, which make it easier to position a load. Be sure to choose a lift table with title or rotational capability, if the load will need to be moved around frequently.
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