Scissor Lift

A scissor lift table is a platform that raises and lowers loads on a set of crossed steel arms, the scissors. The arms are pinned at the middle; one end of each arm is fixed and the other slides as the platform rises. A hydraulic cylinder between the arms pushes them apart to lift the platform. Once at the chosen height, a check valve traps the oil in the cylinder so the platform holds its position, and opening a lowering valve lets the oil out at a controlled rate so the platform comes down smoothly.

Manual lift tables use a pump worked by the operator to drive the oil, so they need no power supply. Tables with more than one set of scissors stacked on top of each other reach a greater height for the same closed height.

The main reason to use a lift table is ergonomics. Bending to the floor, reaching up and twisting while holding a load are what cause back and shoulder injuries in manual handling. A lift table brings the load to a comfortable working height, roughly waist level, so staff can slide or transfer it instead of lifting it, and can adjust the height as a stack is loaded or unloaded. Mobile lift tables also carry the load between work points.

In clean and washed areas the same table must also be cleanable. Stainless steel lift tables resist corrosion from water and cleaning chemicals and suit pharmaceutical, food and lab areas, where painted steel would chip and rust.

Our scissor lifts are made in SS 304 with a matt finish, and also in mild steel. They are manual scissor lifts with safety interlocks for better protection, designed for easy handling and smooth movement, and are used for safe height access in cleanrooms as well as outdoors.

Use a lift table within its limits. Centre the load on the platform and keep it within the rated capacity, apply the wheel brakes before raising, keep hands and feet clear of the scissor arms while the platform moves, and lower it fully before moving the table. A lift table is for loads, not people, so nobody should ride on the platform. Inspect the arms, pins, wheels and hydraulic unit regularly for wear or leaks, and take the table out of use if it creeps down under load.