Cherry Picker Vs Scissor Lift: Difference, Applications and Benefits

Cherry Picker Vs Scissor Lift

Wondering  which equipment should you hire for your construction work between Cherry Pickers and Scissor Lifts? 

Join us in this blog, where we unravel their differences, explore their applications, and highlight the benefits each brings to the table. 

Your construction projects deserve the right lift for efficient operations – let’s guide you to it.

Let’s start with the cherry picker.

What is Cherry Picker?

Cherry Pickers are colloquially referred as  boom Lifts are a type of Aerial Work Platform which provide access at height as well as “over and above” access to the desired workspace. 

Types OF Cherry Picker

There are two main types of cherry pickers – Straight and Articulated. 

Straight cherry pickers are used in areas where there is enough clearance for this equipment to reach its desired height. These are typically used where the machines cannot come right underneath the access area. They can clear obstacles like fences, trees, light poles, boundary walls, etc.

Complicated or tight areas find it easier to use an Articulated cherry picker, where in addition to height access, one might also need to access an area under the desired workspace. 

Application:

Cherry Pickers are available in Electric and Diesel options. 

Electric Cherry Pickers are mainly used in indoor areas, where pollution and sound can be a problem. 

On the other hand, Diesel Cherry Pickers are mainly used in outdoor areas, where charging is a challenge and heavier loads need to be carried. However, with evolving technology and environmental concerns, the usage of Electric Cherry Picker is increasing rapidly. 

WHAT ARE SCISSOR LIFTS?

Scissor Lifts are a type of Aerial Work Platform which provide access at height to the desired workspace where there are no obstacles and only vertical access is required. 

Application:

Scissor Lifts are available in both Electrical and Diesel options. 

Electric Scissor Lifts are mainly used in indoor areas, where pollution and sound can be a problem. 

Diesel Scissor Lifts are mainly used in outdoor areas, where charging is a challenge and heavier loads need to be carried. 

However, with evolving technology and environmental concerns, the usage of Electric Scissor Lifts is increasing rapidly.  To know more about scissor lift and its uses, head over to the blog.

The Difference Between Cherry Picker and Scissor Lift

Cherry Pickers offer versatile “over and above” access to workspaces. With two main types, Straight and Articulated, they navigate obstacles efficiently. 

On the flip side, Scissor Lifts provide straightforward vertical access, ideal where obstacles are minimal. 

Both come in electric and diesel options, catering to indoor and outdoor needs.

Now, let’s talk about what you should choose for your project for optimum efficiency.

WHY CHOOSE ONE OVER THE OTHER

The choice between Boom Lifts and Scissor Lifts comes down to a few simple factors below:

1. The number of obstacles and distance between the machine placement area and the work area : 

If your work area only requires an up down motion from the machine placement area it would be ideal to use a Scissor Lift. However, if your work area requires multiple motion movements from the placement area it would be ideal to use a cherry picker. Furthermore, if there are obstacles between the machine placement area and the work area it would be necessary to use a cherry picker. So unless you are not able to place your machine directly under your work area it would be advisable to go for a cherry picker.

2. The number of work areas within a given radius : 

Since a Scissor Lift only has a vertical motion capability, the work areas it can access are only within its vertical working range. However, a Cherry Picker has the flexibility to turn on its own radius without having to move the machine from its base. So, it can access not just work areas within its vertical range, but also work areas around its entire turning radius.

3. The required height to be reached to access the work area:

Commonly available Scissor Lifts usually are available up to a working height of 18 metres, although there are machines that can go higher, these are not commonly available. Cherry Pickers on the other hand are commonly available up to a working height of 28 metres, giving much more flexibility in accessing higher work areas.

4. Number of workers:

Platform sizes in Cherry Pickers tend to be smaller than Scissor Lifts. So, if you have multiple workers who need to work simultaneously, Scissor Lift would be a better option.

5. Tools:

Scissor Lifts have a lot more flexibility in accommodating tools like air compressors, power tools, water hoses and pipe racks. Cherry Pickers have restrictions because of the smaller platform size.

6. Access area:

Scissor Lifts are more suited to tighter spaces and narrow aisles than Cherry Pickers. They need a smaller access area and a smaller placement area than Cherry Pickers. 

7. Cost:

Scissor lifts are cheaper to acquire and maintain as compared to Boom Lifts because of their reduced complexity.

Conclusion

There are several parameters to be understood before choosing the right machine. But the most important factor is the nature of the job and the location details. Understanding this will help you choose the right machine to safely and effectively complete your job.

Now you believe you’ve found the ideal equipment for your needs. Feel free to reach out for a personalized quote by clicking here.

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