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How to Choose the Best Lift Table Solution for Your Application

When it comes to choosing the perfect lift table for your application, the sheer number of options available can make the buying process feel overwhelming. Which is why it is crucial to pause and consider the key factors that set different lift tables apart. This article will delve into the various applications of lift tables, factors to consider when choosing the right one, and offer guidance on selecting the perfect lift table for your needs.

What Is a Lift Table, and Why Is it Used? 

For those operating within the materials handling industry, lift tables have likely become an integral part of your daily operations. Often utilized as an industrial solution for positioning, lifting, moving, and transferring loads, lift tables represent a cost-effective means to enhance worker safety and improve ergonomics. 

Furthermore, the ability of lift tables to securely hold materials while being lowered, adjusted, or raised to any desired height makes them indispensable in various warehouse applications. 

Exploring Different Types of Lift Tables

To help you navigate the huge variety of lift tables that are available in the market, we have selected a few of the most common lift tables with details on how each works. 

Manual Lift Tables

Manual lift tables are a fantastic ergonomic work solution, particularly for lighter loads. As the name suggests, these lift tables are usually operated with a pump, screw, or crank using a pedal, or by hand. 

Pneumatic Lift Tables

Pneumatic lift tables operate using a pneumatic air system, eliminating the need for a power source. These lift tables rely on an air compressor for mobility, which tends to make them more portable. Not only that, but since they are operated using an air compressor, they do not need oils or lubricants as part of their system, making them a more eco-conscious choice. 

Hydraulic Lift Tables 

Hydraulic lift tables can be lifted and lowered using hydraulic fluid, which is pushed in and out of a cylinder. This causes the scissor legs attached to the tabletop of the lift table to separate, forcing the lift table to go up or down. 

Electric Lift Tables 

One of the most common lift tables in the materials handling industry is the electric lift table, also known as an electro-hydraulic lift table. They can be powered by an electrical cord, a battery, or both sources. Typically, electro-hydraulic lift tables are fitted with a switch so the user can easily turn the lift table on or off. 

Scissor Lift Tables 

You are likely already familiar with scissor lift tables – a design that has been the central inspiration for many other lift tables. Available in pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric versions, scissor lift tables have scissor-shaped legs which open and close to raise and lower the tabletop.

Features to Consider When Selecting a Lift Table 

When it comes to choosing the best lift table solution for your individual application, there are a few different factors that you need to consider: 
  • Load Capacity – Lift tables can range considerably in terms of load capacity. For example, from 100kg to 4 tonnes (220 to 8,818 lbs). Knowing what load capacity you need your lift table to have will help you narrow the search. 
  • Load-Lifting Height – Some lift tables are able to lift heavy loads up to 10 meters (33 ft) high, but others have a much lower load-lifting height. It is important to know your requirements in terms of load-lifting because the higher the load-lifting height, the higher the cost. Knowing what your load-lifting requirements are in advance of purchasing your lift table can save time and money in the long run. 
  • Tabletop Size – The size of the tabletop is vital and should be chosen based on the items you intend to move with your lift table – measure the largest possible items to avoid any surprises later down the line.
  • Usage Frequency – Consider whether your lift table will be performing continuous work or intermittent work. Also consider the lifting time – this is how long it takes for the lift table to unfold. These two factors will also impact which lift table is right for you and your application.

How to Choose the Right Lift Table for Your Application 

Now that you have an understanding of some of the nuances that come with choosing the right lift table for your application, here is a brief guide on how to choose a lift table based on your application. 
  • Manual lift tables are the perfect fit in most industrial environments, especially if your application involves frequent lowering and raising of lighter loads. 
  • Electro-hydraulic lift tables are well-suited for stationary applications where efficiency is a priority due to the convenience provided by the on and off switch. 
  • Hydraulic lift tables offer a safe and efficient solution due to their ability to safely lift and lower heavy loads. This is ideal for use in a warehouse, a construction site, or any other industrial environment.
  • Pneumatic lift tables have a similar use case to hydraulic lift tables as they are suitable for more heavy-duty lifting and lowering, although it is worth noting that hydraulic lift tables tend to be able to lift heavier loads than pneumatic lift tables. However, unlike hydraulic lift tables, pneumatic lift tables do not require on-site electricity. If access to on-site electricity is problematic, pneumatic lift tables are an optimal solution.

Expert Lift Table Solutions from Blue Giant

If you are looking for the perfect lift table for your application, look no further than the experts at Blue Giant. The Blue Giant team will be able to guide you through which lift table solution is best suited for your application while ensuring that your needs and pressure points are met by our wide range of lift table solutions. To learn more about the available lift table solutions, do not hesitate to reach out to one of our experienced experts.