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What is a tracked scissor lift?
Tracked scissor lifts also called crawler scissor lifts, is an innovative design of traditional scissor lifts. It combines the vertical lifting capabilities of scissor lifts with an advanced tracked undercarriage system. In essence, it consists of a working platform that is mounted across expandable scissor mechanism installed over a tracked chassis instead of the conventional wheels.
The track system is made of heavy-duty rubber or steel tracks, often like those on excavators but modified for aerial work platforms, covering multi-layer construction to ensure their durability, non-marking rubber compounds, used in indoor applications, self-tensioning mechanisms that come with maintenance, and last but not least, specialized tread patterns for ideal grip.
Unlike the wheeled units, which use outriggers to stay stable on rough terrain, the tracked designs have a broader track base and a lower center of gravity, which makes them inherently stable. This allows for the operation of slopes up to 35 degrees (depending on the model) and provides good traction on most other surfaces.
Platform Design
The working platform must be designed with the following in mind:
- Reinforced guardrails that meet safety standards
- Deck surface that is non-slip
- Expandable deck options that can increase the work area available for use
- Tool holders and outlets integration
- Load state display
Lifting Mechanism
The lifting equipment of the tracked scissor lift includes a similar sturdy hydraulic lifting system construction, and:
- smoothes lifting with little vertical jerking;
- multi-stage scissor for increased lifting height;
- safety locking valves;
The scissor lifting cylinders of the tracked scissor lift are also lifted smoothly by lifting the support in a position synchronized manner.
Control Systems
Modern tracked scissor lifts are equipped with various advanced control systems like:
- Control panels on the ground and on the platform
- Proportional controls for precise movement
- Diagnosis by itself
- Emergency stop functions
- Interactive display screens
How Tracked Scissor Lifts Work
The work cycle of tracked scissor lift is divided mainly into three systems as follows:
Track Propulsion System:
- Powered by hydraulic/electric drives
- Individual track control for optimal movement
- Zero-turn feature
Stepless speed control for various kinds of terrains
Scissor Lifting Mechanism:
- Hydraulic cylinders extend/retract it vertically
- Several scissor stages in action
- Lock valves for safety reasons
It ensures smooth and controlled movement of the platform
Safety and Control Systems:
- Emergency stop push button at ground/upper
- Load weighing device avoids over loading of the installment
- Tilt sensing during sloping
Automatic stability along with manual control
A combination of three systems enables monitored scissor lifts to move safely over challenging terrain and elevate operators and materials to required heights in a stable way, thus providing safe and efficient aerial access.
Track vs. Wheel-Based Scissor Lifts
Wheeled scissor lifts excellent in indoor environments and on level, finished surfaces like warehouse floors and paved areas
Track scissor lifts performance better in:
- Rough outdoor terrain
- Uneven ground conditions
- Inclined surfaces
- Construction sites
- External maintenance projects
The tracked design delivers enhanced stability and maneuverability across challenging landscapes, making crawler scissor lifts the preferred option for outdoor industrial applications.
How Much Does Scissor lift cost:
The price of tracked scissor lifts can vary depending on factors such as platform height, lifting capacity, brand, and additional features. The following is a typical price range for Holdwell tracked scissor lifts, based on platform height:
- 19 ft platform height: $20,000 to $30,000
- 26 ft platform height: $30,000 to $50,000
- 30 ft platform height: $40,000 to $60,000
- 40 ft platform height: $60,000 to $80,000
Note: This is just a general price range, for specific machine prices, please contact our sales staff for the most detailed quote.
The application of tracked scissor lifts is of great importance in the industry at present. With an increasing level of complexity in construction projects and more demanding access requirements, these machines are very important in allowing work to continue efficiently and safely across different types of terrain. Whether moving on soft ground, rough terrain, or moving into some restricted space, the tracked scissor lifts provide the flexibility and reliability required by modern construction and maintenance operations.
As a leading aerial work platform manufacturer in China, Holdwell provides various types of aerial work platform lifts. If you are looking for tracked scissor lifts, contact us today to learn more.
