Ask The Expert

All types of lift tables should be specified around the application that the lift table is being used for. Both electric and manual tables are equally as safe when used correctly and under the manufacturers operating procedure. 

Our scissor tables are fitted with an overload valve that restricts the weight lifted on the scissor table to the SWL (safe working load). If a weight greater than the SWL is attempted to be raised then the scissor table will not operate. 

This one is simply down to the application; if for example you are using the scissor lift very infrequently and possibly only raising the scissor lift when it is empty then a manual scissor lift may be the best solution for you. If the unit is in frequent use then a electric version would benefit the user. Manual scissor tables are also selected where the ability to power or charge the table is not present and of course manual scissor tables tend to be less expensive than the powered equivalent!

Bellows are an option and are not required under the current regulations. Electric scissor lift tables have to have a safety "trip" bar fitted under the top of the table that stop the table lowering if an obstruction has been detected. Bellows are used where materials may gather around the table and the bellows stops them entering the mechanism of the table or for added security that no-one can interfere or get caught in the mechanism. 

The manual scissor tables are raised with a foot level that pumps oil in to the hydraulic ram in the table. The lowering is either by a foot pedal or hand lever for releasing oil from the hydraulic ram. Electric scissor tables are operated either with a hand controller on a curly cable with buttons for up and down or with buttons on the table.

Mostly the ideal solution for a static scissor lift would be to put it in a pit. This way when the table is lowered it is level with the floor and does not create a tripping hazard. In reality digging a pit for a table is often not an option due to the costs and the existing works within the building. When this is the case then a low profile version may solve the problem. 

The "travel" is the difference between the closed height and the raised height of the table. This is essential to know when pit mounting a static table, as the travel will be the only real relevant dimension for the raised height of the table. 

Our lift tables are fitted with burst valves that in the even of hydraulic hose bursting the lift table will maintain its current height until the hydraulics are manually replaced. 

Our scissor tables and scissor lifts conform to the British Standard - BS5323 plus CEN/TC safety demands and are supplied with a CE Certificate of Conformity.

"U" shape scissor tables only really work with Euro pallets or pallets without a bottom board all the way around the pallet. If you are using GKN (with a bottom board all the way around the pallet) or a mix of pallets then a low profile with a ramp is the only option for you.