Construction Lifting Equipment Key Terms

Understand the meaning of construction lifting equipment key terms

Most construction companies require at least one lifting machine to assist them with their workload. Lifting equipment allows you to raise and lower objects that would otherwise require many people to move. These machines allow you to upright objects such as metal frames, or place rafters on a building with ease. When looking to buy or lease construction equipment, learn construction lifting equipment key terms to help you find the equipment you need.

 

Duplex mast

A duplex mast is a device on a forklift that allows the forks to extend higher than the vehicle itself. A duplex mast is not available with all forklifts.
Try: View pictures and find more information about duplex masts at AGV Electronics.

Boom

A boom, or jib boom, is a large pole or tower that extends upward and outward to help lift heavy objects. A boom is equipped with a system of hoists or winches. This type of lifting equipment is normally run by electric or hydraulic motors.
Try: Get a better understanding of how booms and jibs work by reading information available at Reed Business Information.

Vacuum lift

A vacuum lift system is a mechanical device connected to a vacuum that uses suction to pick up and carry heavy items. The most common construction use for vacuum lifting is for lifting glass.
Try: Discover the difference between scissor and vacuum lifts at WOODWEB.

Scissor lift

A scissor lift is a mobile platform that uses arms that contract and expand to lower and raise a platform. When open, the arms resemble a pair of open scissors, hence the name. Scissor lifts can be manually moved, rail-guided or motor-driven.
Try: BNP Media supplies more information about scissor lifts and scissor lift safety.

Hoist

A hoist is a machine that uses a lift wheel or drum that's wrapped with chains or ropes. The chains or ropes are then connected to hooks, which raise and lower heavy objects. Hoists are manually, air- or hydraulic-powered.
Try: Read more information about hoists at AbsoluteAstronomy.com.

Winch

A winch is similar to a hoist in that it has a chain or rope that is used around a drum to lift heavy objects. A winch can also be motor- or manually driven. A crank on the side of the barrel or drum is used to turn the device and to add tension to the line in order to lift the object.
Try: Find more information about winches at Bill Burke's 4-Wheeling America.

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