A knuckle boom crane looks like a standard crane. The main difference is that the boom is capable of folding back similar to a finger because the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the center. This enables the machine to be able to transform into a compact size for storage and maneuvering.
Usually, the arm on a knuckle boom crane is quite a little lighter than boom truck cranes. The crane arm is designed to enable more payloads to be lifted on the back of the mounted vehicle. Nearly all knuckle boom cranes are mounted at the back of the cab. This leaves the whole bed of the truck empty.
Interestingly enough, smaller types of knuckle boom cranes could be used without a licensed crane operator, as long as the maximum capacity is less than 15,000 pounds or if the maximum boom length is less than 25 feet long.
Control systems for these cranes are often different. Some can control from the ground, radio remote control, seated and stand up control. The radio remote systems are capable of running the crane and starting it. Furthermore, many models come equipped with a computer readout system which provides system readouts immediately reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Personnel lifts designed by Snorkel have been made to help contractors and maintenance professionals perform jobs at elevated heights. These lifts are portable, inexpensive, lightweight work platforms made for interior use. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel provides superb flexibility and excellent reach. This system, utilized in the UL Series, offers excellent lift capacity.
Snorkel's PAM Series and UL Series Personnel lifts are made so that only one individual is required to operate the machines. These equipment are easy to transport. They can easily be pushed smoothly into position and pass through a regular sized doorway. These lifts could be erected in minutes and could provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they really are an efficient alternative to scaffold towers.