A knuckle boom crane looks like a typical crane. The key distinction is that the boom could fold back like a finger because the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the center. This allows the machine to be able to transform into a compact size for storage and maneuvering.
Normally, the arm on a knuckle boom crane is quite 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 entire bed of the truck empty.
Smaller models of knuckle boom cranes can be used without a licensed crane operator, if the load capacity of the machine is less than 15,000 lbs. or if the boom's maximum length is less than 25 feet long.
Control systems for these cranes are often different. Some could 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. Moreover, many models come outfitted with a computer readout system that provides system readouts immediately reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Snorkel Personnel Lifts are designed for facilities maintenance professionals and contractors. These lifts are affordable, lightweight, portable work platforms made to be utilized indoor. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel provides excellent reach and superb stability. This system, used in the UL Series, offers excellent lift capacity.
Snorkel's PAM Series and UL Series Personnel lifts are made so that just one person is required to operate the equipment. These equipment are easy to transport. They can easily pass through a standard sized doorway and be pushed smoothly into position. These lifts could be erected in minutes and could provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they are an effective alternative to scaffold towers.