A knuckle boom crane looks like a standard crane. The key difference is that the boom is capable of folding back like a finger since the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the center. 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 somewhat a little lighter than boom truck cranes. The crane arm is designed to allow more payloads to be lifted on the back of the mounted vehicle. Most knuckle boom cranes are mounted at the rear of the cab. This leaves the entire bed of the truck empty.
Smaller models of knuckle boom cranes could be used without a certified crane operator, if the load capacity of the machine is less than 15,000 pounds or if the boom's maximum length is less than 25 feet long.
There are various types of control systems for the cranes. For example, there is radio remote control, control from the ground, 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 provides system readouts at once reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Snorkel Personnel Lifts are designed for facilities maintenance professionals and contractors. These lifts are lightweight, portable, affordable work platforms made to be used indoor. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel provides superb flexibility and excellent reach. This system, used in the UL Series, provides great lift capacity.
The Snorkel PAM Series and UL Series Personnel lifts have been designed and built in order to be easy for one individual to use. These machines are easy to transport. They could easily be pushed smoothly into position and pass through a standard sized doorway. These lifts are capable of being erected in minutes and could provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they are an effective alternative to scaffold towers.