The knuckle boom crane is somewhat like a regular crane with one key difference. The boom can fold back like a finger. In essence, the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the center. This allows the machine to be able to transform into a compact size for maneuvering and storage.
Usually, the arm on a knuckle boom crane is somewhat a bit lighter than boom truck cranes. The crane arm is designed to enable more payloads to be carried on the back of the mounted vehicle. Most knuckle boom cranes are mounted behind 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 lbs. or if the maximum boom length is less than 25 feet long.
Control systems for these cranes are normally 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, numerous models come outfitted with a computer readout system which provides system readouts at once 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 tasks at elevated heights. These lifts are portable, affordable, lightweight work platforms made to be used indoor. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel provides excellent reach and superb stability. This system, used in the UL Series, provides great lift capacity.
The Snorkel UL Series Personnel and PAM Series lifts have been designed and built so as to be easy for one person to use. These machines could be transported easily. They can easily be pushed into position smoothly and pass through a standard sized doorway. These lifts can be erected in minutes and could provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they are an effective option to scaffold towers.