A knuckle boom crane looks similar to a typical crane. The key difference is that the boom is capable of folding back similar to a finger as the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the center. This enables the machinery to be able to transform into a compact size for maneuvering and storage.
Typically, the arm on a knuckle boom crane is quite a bit lighter compared to boom truck cranes. The crane arm is designed to allow more payloads to be carried on the back of the mounted vehicle. Nearly all knuckle boom cranes are mounted behind the cab. This leaves the whole bed of the truck empty.
Smaller models of knuckle boom cranes could be utilized without a licensed crane operator, if the load capacity of the machinery is less than 15,000 pounds or if the boom's maximum length is less than 25 feet long.
Control systems for these cranes are often different. Some could control from the ground, radio remote control, stand up and seated control. The radio remote systems can operate the crane and starting it. In addition, lots of models come equipped with a computer readout system which provides system readouts at once reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Personnel lifts designed by Snorkel have been made to help maintenance professionals and contractors perform tasks at elevated heights. These lifts are portable, inexpensive, lightweight work platforms made to be used indoor. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel provides superb flexibility and excellent reach. This system, used in the UL Series, offers great lift capacity.
Snorkel's PAM Series and UL Series Personnel lifts are made so that just one individual is needed to operate the machines. These equipment 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 could provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they really are an effective option to scaffold towers.