A knuckle boom crane looks like a standard 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 allows the machinery to be able to transform into a compact size for maneuvering and storage.
Usually, the arm on a knuckle boom crane is somewhat a little lighter compared to boom truck cranes. The crane arm is designed to enable more payloads to be carried on the back of the mounted vehicle. Nearly all knuckle boom cranes are mounted at the back of 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, so 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 different types of control systems for the cranes. Like for example, there is radio remote control, control from the ground, stand up and seated control. The radio remote systems could run the crane as well as starting it. In addition, numerous models come equipped with a computer readout system which 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 inexpensive, lightweight, portable work platforms made to be utilized indoor. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel delivers superb flexibility and excellent reach. This system, utilized in the UL Series, provides great lift capacity.
The Snorkel UL Series Personnel and PAM Series lifts have been designed and built so as to be easy for one person to operate. These machines are easy to transport. They can easily be pushed into position smoothly and pass through a regular sized doorway. These lifts can be erected in minutes and being able to provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they really are an efficient alternative to scaffold towers.