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 allows the machine to be able to transform into a compact size for storage and maneuvering.
Normally, the arm on a knuckle boom crane is somewhat a bit lighter than boom truck cranes. The crane arm is designed to enable more payloads to be carried on the back of the mounted vehicle. Most knuckle boom cranes are mounted at the rear of the cab. This leaves the whole bed of the truck empty.
Smaller kinds of knuckle boom cranes could be utilized without a licensed crane operator, if the load capacity of the machine is less than 15,000 lbs. 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, seated and stand up control. The radio remote systems are capable of running the crane as well as starting it. Moreover, numerous models come equipped with a computer readout system that instantly provides system readouts reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Personnel lifts designed by Snorkel have been made to help maintenance professionals and contractors carry out tasks at elevated heights. These lifts are lightweight, portable, inexpensive work platforms made for interior use. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel delivers excellent reach and superb stability. This system, used in the UL Series, provides great lift capacity.
Snorkel's UL Series Personnel and PAM Series lifts are made so that only one person is required to operate the machines. These machines are easy to transport. They can easily pass through a standard sized doorway and be pushed into position smoothly. These lifts are capable of being erected in minutes and could provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they are an efficient alternative to scaffold towers.