A knuckle boom crane looks similar to a standard crane. The key difference is that the boom can fold back like a finger since the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the middle. This allows the equipment to be able to transform into a compact size for maneuvering and storage.
Usually, 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 at the rear of the cab. This leaves the whole bed of the truck empty.
Smaller models of knuckle boom cranes can be utilized without a licensed crane operator, if the load capacity of the equipment 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 can 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. In addition, many models come outfitted 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 contractors and maintenance professionals carry out jobs at elevated heights. These lifts are lightweight, portable, affordable work platforms made for interior use. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel provides excellent reach and superb stability. This system, used in the UL Series, provides excellent lift capacity.
The Snorkel PAM Series and UL Series Personnel lifts have been designed and built so as to be easy for one person to use. These machinery are easy to transport. They could easily pass through a regular sized doorway and be pushed into position smoothly. These lifts are capable of being erected in minutes and being able to provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they are an effective alternative to scaffold towers.