The
scissors lift is the most popular type of powered
loading dock equipment. Installation is quite simple and
relatively inexpensive with some units being ready to go
to work by merely plugging into an electrical power
source. Basically, the Autoquip scissors lift is a
single pantograph mechanism with the platform serving as
the vertical moving link. This type of unit is usually
installed outdoors and is constantly exposed to the
elements. Autoquip’s chrome plated hydraulic cylinder
rods and pivot pins are equipped to prevent rust and
corrosion.
Permanent
or pit mounted models of scissors lifts are normally
installed on or in front of a dock and are positioned in
relation to the turning area required by the truck. A
front of dock, flush with grade installation allows
vehicular cross traffic in alleyways or in tight turning
areas.
These
scissors lifts require a shallow pit and capabilities
generally range from 2,000 lbs. to 20,000 lbs.
Surface
mounted, medium to heavy capacity Autoquip scissors
lifts are available and are especially suited to
conditions where permanent installation cannot be made,
such as leased or rented facilities when alley
right-of-way restrictions exist. Surface mounted lifts
are designed to be easily and inexpensively relocated.
Some
scissors lifts are portable and can be moved from one
work area to another with relative ease. These units are
ideal for the light to medium duty loading applications:
crates, pallets, wire baskets or wheeled hamper carts.
Portable models have capabilities up to 6,000 lbs.
Because this type of unit is portable and not a
permanent part of the building, it is ideal in cases
where a building is rented or a common loading dock area
is shared by multiple tenants. The Autoquip portable
unit can also be moved indoors for protection from
vandalism, theft, and undue exposure to harsh elements.