Hydraulic Lifts: A Guide

April 29, 2025 10:53 am Comments Off

Hydraulic Lifts: A Guide

Hydraulics is a specific branch of fluid mechanics that is focused on the engineering applications of fluids, often water and oil, inside systems. A hydraulic lift uses liquid contained in a sealed system to create and control the movement of objects and lift loads efficiently. Learn more about how they work and some of the many types of hydraulic lifts available.

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An Overview of Hydraulic Lifts

Hydraulic lifts are used to safely and reliably raise heavy loads of equipment, materials, or people. They are widely used in manufacturing and production plants, warehouses, construction sites, and hospitals, and some versions can even be found in commercial businesses or private homes. The primary advantage of choosing hydraulics for lifting loads is that the movement is smooth and steady, which limits the risk of jostling or dropping items as the platform is moving. These systems are also capable of moving very heavy loads without taking up a large amount of space, thanks to the compact nature of hydraulic cylinders.

How Do Hydraulic Lifts Work?

Although there are many different applications for hydraulic lifts, they all share the same basic operating principle, known as Pascal’s law, which describes how fluids can be used to transmit force.

Hydraulic systems use incompressible liquids, which are those whose volume changes little as pressure is applied to them. When force is applied to liquid that is sealed in a container (i.e., hydraulic cylinder), the pressure is transmitted equally throughout the liquid and to the walls of the cylinder. As a result, the force can be transmitted to a piston, causing it to move.

Most hydraulic lift systems include these five components:

Cylinder. Cylinders are hollow metal tubes with telescoping sections that extend and retract, lifting or lowering a platform that carries the load. The hydraulic fluid is sealed inside the cylinder.
Hydraulic Fluid. Most hydraulic systems use oil to transmit force and provide lubricity for the cylinder.
Piston. The piston sits inside the cylinder and is connected to the lift platform. It moves up as the main cylinder expands and down as it retracts.
Pump. The pump pushes fluid into the cylinder, generating pressure that makes the fluid—and the rest of the system—move up or down.
Valve. The fluid moves through a valve, which can be opened or closed to manage the flow of oil and start, stop, or control the speed of the platform’s movement.

Types of Hydraulic Lifts

There are many different ways to configure the basic components of a hydraulic lift system for specific applications, whether that involves lifting and lowering equipment, transporting it across a warehouse, or elevating a worker to reach overhead equipment. Some of the most common types of industrial and commercial lifts include the following:

Lift Table. Common in the transportation industry, lift tables can lift loads from the floor to a workable height or to the height of a truck bed.
Personnel Lifts/Aerial Lifts. These lifts can carry personnel and equipment safely. They assist workers who need to access tall shelves, reach elevated control panels, or repair electrical lines.
Forklifts. Forklifts are usually found in factories, construction sites, and warehouses. Operators can lift heavy items or palletized loads with the hydraulic-powered fork and then drive them to a new location.
Medical Lifts. Medical lifts are used to raise and lower hospital beds, surgical tables, and equipment. Staff can easily make small adjustments to the height of the platform along with the angle for improved comfort and accessibility.
Automotive Lifts. Mechanics use automotive lifts to raise vehicles off the ground for easier access underneath the vehicle. These lifts are designed to allow the mechanics to reach parts and components on the underside of the vehicle, while still supporting the heavy load of the car or truck.
Post Car Lifts. This is a specialized type of automotive lift that can raise any type of vehicle. It features two posts with four arms and a hydraulic drive on each post.
Platform Lifts. These lifts have a large horizontal platform for lifting up groups of people and large loads or pallets. They can reach a range of heights while staying level and stable.
Custom Hydraulic Lifts. Depending on the application, a custom lift may be the most suitable solution. Some of the important factors for custom lifts are:
- Frame size
- Stroke (i.e., total distance the lift can move from fully extended to fully retracted)
- Speed
- Material options such as stainless steel, laminates, or ESD linings
- Safety features, including lock-up bars or explosion-proof materials
- Single- or multi-axis rotation
- Added features such as clamps, forks, tables, seats, or shelving

Hydraulic Lifts From Unidex

The right hydraulic lift can transform operations by safely moving heavy loads vertically or horizontally. At Unidex, we design and engineer a variety of sturdy and user-friendly hydraulic lift equipment, work positioners, portable lifts, and other industrial material handling solutions. Since 1991, we’ve also become a leading provider of customized equipment for raising, lowering, and moving small and large loads.

Benefits Of Battery-Powered Industrial Lift Positioners

April 10, 2025 7:29 am Comments Off

Benefits Of Battery-Powered Industrial Lift Positioners

What Are Battery-Powered Industrial Lift Positioners?

Battery-powered lift positioners are industrial lifts that can hold, raise, and move various loads while relying on a portable battery as the power source. These mobile units are designed to lift heavy equipment and supplies into position for loading, unloading, or repairs. This results in greater flexibility for employees and improved workflow efficiency in various settings.

Finding the right powered mobile lift for your operations can significantly impact workplace productivity. Getting the best equipment for your workplace can mean the difference between steady workflow and accessibility versus dropped or damaged equipment, slowed operations, and risks of worker fatigue or injury. Read on to learn more about battery-powered industrial lift positioners and their numerous benefits.

Benefits of Battery-Powered Industrial Lift Positioners vs. Others

Here are a few reasons to consider a battery-powered lift positioner over other available options, including traditional stationary workstations.

Increased Safety

Manually lifting and moving heavy loads can lead to injuries and equipment damage. Powered mobile workstations handle the heavy lifting, reducing strain on workers. Look for industrial lifts that include large, non-slip platforms and guard rails, as these will be safer for accessing work surfaces that are elevated.

Improved Efficiency

The use of an integrated power system, which typically comprises rechargeable batteries, means the mobile lift can operate for several hours at a time. This makes it possible for workers to move materials faster while reducing or completely eliminating the physical strain of repetitive lifting and positioning. As a result, they can increase overall efficiency and productivity.

Versatility

Battery-powered industrial lifts are typically mounted on wheels for easy mobility when transporting loads. They also come in a range of sizes with varying load capacities and unique features to accommodate different applications. For instance, some lifts are designed to carry heavier loads safely, and certain models may also come with a quick-release pin to allow for rapid load engagement.

Accessibility

Battery-operated mobile lifts improve accessibility by enabling workers to easily reach elevated areas. They also make it easier for workers to bring along the necessary equipment and tools. This added convenience reduces the number of trips required to gather supplies.

Cost-Effectiveness

Investing in a battery-powered industrial lift can help offset losses associated with downtime, inefficiencies, and injuries. By improving safety and productivity, businesses can reduce long-term operational costs while keeping their workers safe.

Environmental Friendliness

Battery-powered motors eliminate the emissions and fumes associated with gas-powered lifts. This makes them a more sustainable and eco-friendly option for industrial settings.

How to Choose a Battery-Powered Industrial Lift Positioner

There are a few things to consider when choosing a battery-powered industrial lift for your application.

Mobility

A primary consideration when selecting a powered mobile lift is its mobility and ergonomic design. The workstation should be easy to maneuver and flexible enough to accommodate different user heights and preferences. Features such as swivel or locking casters, compact dimensions, and adjustable height ensure optimal mobility and user comfort. A well-designed workstation will reduce the risk of work-related injuries and increase accessibility.

Power Management

When using equipment that relies on battery power, you also need to consider battery life and the efficiency of your charging systems; mobile lifts are no exception. Look for a unit with a long-lasting battery that can support an entire shift. Some may be able to provide extended use without needing to recharge it throughout the day.

Durability and Cleanliness

Durability is essential for workstations operating in demanding industrial environments. Choose models made from high-quality materials with reinforced frames and impact-resistant components. In sterile settings, easy-to-clean surfaces help maintain hygiene and minimize the risk of contamination.

Reliable Battery-Powered Industrial Lift Positioners by Unidex

Battery-powered mobile lifts are ideal for facilities seeking increased safety and productivity. With improved ergonomics, increased mobility, and various environmental benefits, they are valuable investments for industrial settings. Unidex, Inc. offers high-quality battery-powered mobile lifts designed to meet the demands of various industries. Whether your facility is looking for equipment to handle heavy lifting, material handling, or provide a more adaptable workflow, Unidex has the solution.

Archive: Apr 2025