The knuckle boom crane is quite similar to a regular crane with one key difference. The boom can fold back like a finger. In essence, the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the middle. This allows the machinery to be able to transform into a compact size for storage and maneuvering.
Knuckle boom crane arms are somewhat a little lighter than boom truck cranes. These crane arms are made to enable more payloads to be lifted on the back of the vehicle it is mounted on. Nearly all knuckle boom cranes are mounted behind the cab. This leaves the whole bed of the truck empty.
Interestingly enough, smaller models of knuckle boom cranes can be utilized without a certified crane operator, as long as the maximum capacity is less than 15,000 lbs. or if the maximum boom length is less than 25 feet long.
There are different types 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 and starting it. In addition, many models come outfitted with a computer readout system which provides system readouts immediately reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Personnel lifts designed by Snorkel have been made to help contractors and maintenance professionals perform tasks at elevated heights. These lifts are lightweight, portable, inexpensive work platforms made to be used indoor. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel provides superb flexibility and excellent reach. This system, utilized in the UL Series, provides great lift capacity.
Snorkel's PAM Series and UL Series Personnel lifts are made so that just one person is needed to operate the machines. These machines can be transported easily. They could easily pass through a standard 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 truly are an effective alternative to scaffold towers.