Two Trends Driving Demand For Vertical Mast Lifts - JLG Industries

Similar to what's happening in the compact scissor lift and low-level access lift markets, demand today for vertical mast lifts is being driven by users' need for machines that meet these core requirements:

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• Smaller footprints to fit into smaller spaces
• Lighter weight to be used on different types of sensitive surfaces, like finished flooring
• Small (or zero) turning radius for enhanced maneuverability
• Ability to fit into freight elevators

Two trends increasing the demand for machines that match these requirements are:

1. The need to access narrower, more confined work areas
2. The ability to work in weight-restricted applications

Let's take a closer look at these trends and how JLG is responding ...

Trend #1: The need to access narrower, more confined areas

One of the biggest benefits of vertical mast lifts like the JLG® E18MML is that these machines allow users to access tight, confined indoor spaces like doorways, stairways, hallways and other areas obstructed by infrastructure like in between tight racking, ducts for heating/cool work, pipes for plumbing and/or ceiling tiles and joists. And because many models, like the JLG E18MCL machine, are rated for indoor and outdoor use, these models are well-suited for work in restricted outside areas like alleyways, on sidewalks and/or close to exterior walls of buildings.

These types of machines are purpose-built to provide workers with access to high-reaching or overhead tasks in hard-to-reach places where ladders or scaffolding have traditionally been used. Measuring between 2-3 ft wide, vertical mast lifts are the most compact type of aerial lift available to fit into small spaces. Additionally, vertical mast lifts boast up-and-over capabilities, which means they can easily maneuver around fixed obstacles at height.

Trend #2: The ability to work in weight-restricted applications

Many construction and facility maintenance jobs need to be done in areas that are difficult to navigate with larger, heavier machines, including traditional slab scissor lifts. In fact, that's the biggest difference between vertical mast lifts and slab scissor lifts – the size.

Not only do vertical mast lifts like JLG's models boast a smaller footprint (a little more than 2 ft in width and length and less than 7 ft in height) and zero-turn capabilities for excellent maneuverability around job sites and facilities, but these machines are also lighter weight – many models weigh under 2,000 lbs. Thanks to their lightweight design, JLG's machines can be driven through a facility and used on finished or weight-restricted flooring such as carpet, concrete, ceramic or porcelain tile, hardwood, laminate, stone and vinyl. And, being small enough to fit into tight spaces and lightweight enough for use on sensitive flooring also means that JLG's models can fit into and be moved between floors in standard elevators.

Another benefit of these machines weighing less and being so compact is that once the work is done, they can (when stowed) fit into small spaces like utility closets for storage when not in use.

A Look At JLG Vertical Mast Lifts

To meet market demand for these types of small, lightweight aerial lifts, JLG has two new vertical mast models available in the market: The E18MML and the E18MCL. Both are tried and true, field-proven products that offer an efficient and productive way to tackle up-and-over work and are an alternative to ladders and scaffolding.

These models feature a choice of castor-type steering that is ideal for use in maintenance, stock picking and warehouse applications (E18MML model), or scissor-type steering for construction use (E18MCL model). Thanks to the batteries being mounted under the platform, these JLG machines also are designed with improved machine weight distribution for efficient loading and unloading. And, there are five different platform options to choose from to increase productivity. Every JLG E18 platform option is equipped with exclusive "Quick Change" mountings for one-minute change-outs.

Both JLG models are engineered with a modern DC electric drive system, which comes available with long-running batteries for lasting performance. Also, both models are available with a Stock Picker Package Option for stock and ordering picking applications in warehouses and distribution centers.

Ready to learn more about JLG's E18 vertical mast lifts? For additional details, click here.

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Scissor Lift

A scissor lift is a type of platform that can usually only move vertically. The mechanism to achieve this is the use of linked, folding supports in a criss-cross X pattern, known as a pantograp (or scissor mechanism). The upward motion is achieved by the application of pressure to the outside of the lowest set of supports, elongating the crossing pattern, and propelling the work platform vertically. 

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  Because the scissor lift's scissor design makes it very stable during its lifting, the platform does not tilt, making it safer to operate. And it can be folded up when placed, taking up less space. The structure is also relatively simple, and the operation and maintenance are also very convenient. therefore, with the continuous upgrading of lift products, the scissor lift is still loved by the majority of customers.

  But it also still has some defects, such as the slow lifting speed, the weight of the lift because of its material makes more weight, usually need to be equipped with auxiliary drive tools to move.

Vertical Mast Lift

Vertical mast lift is a kind of vertical transport equipment through mast structure and motor. It works by driving the hydraulic system or screw system through the motor to pushing the lifting platform up or down.

The vertical mast lift design is more compact, and the work place is more extensive. And can be quickly deployed, improve the work efficiency. But it also

has some defects, such as small load capacity, high maintenance requirements.

What’s the difference with them?

Although both vertical mast lifts and shear lifts are commonly used lifts, there are still some differences in their design, use, and operation:

lThe most intuitive is the difference in their appearance. Due to their

different design and structure, the vertical mast lift structure is more compact, so it is more light and clever, making the vertical mast lift more suitable for operation in a narrow space.

lIn terms of load and weight, because vertical mast lifts usually use

aluminum material, and shear lifts usually use steel material, so vertical mast lifts are lighter than shear lifts, and they are easier to move. But it also limits its load capacity will usually be lower than the shear lift.

lIn terms of operation and control, the vertical mast lift is simpler and the

control is more intuitive. Although the shear lift is also simple to operate, it may require more operation space and safety measures.