The knuckle boom crane is somewhat similar to a typical crane with one main difference. The boom could fold back like a finger. In essence, the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the center. This enables the machinery to be able to transform into a compact size for storage and maneuvering.
Knuckle boom crane arms are somewhat a bit lighter compared to 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. Most 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 could be utilized 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 various kinds of control systems for the cranes. For instance, there is control from the ground, radio remote control, stand up and seated control. The radio remote systems can operate the crane as well as starting it. Furthermore, lots of models come equipped with a computer readout system that instantly provides system readouts reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Snorkel Personnel Lifts are designed for contractors and facilities maintenance professionals. These lifts are portable, inexpensive, lightweight work platforms made for interior use. 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.
The Snorkel UL Series Personnel and PAM Series lifts have been designed and built so as to be easy for one person to use. These equipment could be transported easily. They could easily pass through a regular sized doorway and be pushed into position smoothly. These lifts could be erected in minutes and could provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they are an effective option to scaffold towers.