Boom lifts are a versatile type of aerial platform and as such, they can be used in a variety of applications. Offering excellent manoeuvrability, there are a wide selection of boom lifts to choose from, each with different power options, maximum height and maximum load capacity. As such, the best boom lift to hire depends on a range of factors, from the environment and terrain to the nature of the project and the height required.
Here at Horizon Platforms, our boom lift hire fleet includes indoor machines that are battery-powered and have non-marking tyres, while our selection of outdoor platforms includes diesel-powered machines that can be operated on uneven ground surfaces. Each of our access platforms is available with flexible hire lengths and we deliver 96% of our machines on time.
Choosing the right aerial platform for your application is crucial, as it could impact the project’s safety, efficiency and profit margins. This guide outlines the two main types of boom lifts to help you rent an access platform that will benefit your business and suit your application.
Telescopic Boom Lift
Commonly referred to as stick booms due to their tall and straight appearance, a telescopic boom tends to provide higher reach, making them ideal for completing tasks at height. They consist of a stationary base segment and a secondary moveable section powered by hydraulics, which extends to manoeuvre the platform up and down. Due to their design and size, telescopic booms are more suitable for working at height in larger, open spaces. However, this structure provides the stability required to reach greater heights – including on uneven terrain – making them useful in a range of applications and industries, such as construction sites and film sets.
Reasons to Choose a Telescopic Boom:
- Stick-like structure ensures stable working at height
- Choice of two and four-wheel drive models deliver traction on uneven surfaces
- Excellent outreach and extension makes them ideal for distance working
Articulating Boom Lift
Often called knuckle booms due to their arm-like segmented design, articulating boom lifts provide up and over obstacle access, making them the perfect choice for hard to reach tasks. Their structure consists of several mobile sections which are joint by hinges and can be moved independently, allowing the machine to bend or articulate, manoeuvring the platform in a variety of directions and angles. This makes articulating booms ideal for a variety of tasks, including smaller, hard-to-reach areas. With machines available for uneven surfaces, these aerial lifts are typically employed for facility maintenance and electrical repairs.
Reasons to Choose an Articulating Boom:
- Narrow designs can provide access to tight and confined spaces
- Choice of models suitable for indoor, outdoor and rough ground surfaces
- Versatility and manoeuvrability for hard-to-reach tasks
Boom Lift Hire Checklist
With distinct differences between telescopic and articulating boom lifts, below are some points to consider before hiring:
- What height, outreach and maximum load capacity do you require?
- Is the project indoors or outdoors?
- Are you working in an open or confined space?
- Is the ground surface even or will you be working over rough terrain?
- Does the site have road access?
- Are there any overhead obstacles that require greater manoeuvrability?
- Are staff competent and IPAF trained?
Aerial Platform Hire from Horizon Platforms
Offering same and next day delivery on access platforms across the UK, you can hire articulating and telescopic boom lifts with peace of mind, here at Horizon Platforms. With more than 100 local depots throughout the UK and partnerships with over 150 powered access suppliers, we provide the machines you need, when you need them.
Contact our experts for advice or fill in our two-minute credit application to receive your aerial lift in as little as 24 hours.
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