Scissor lift platforms
When a company considers the incorporation of lifting machinery, very important factors must be taken into account when making the investment in said machinery.
There are many types of lifting machinery but today, we are going to talk about scissor lift platforms. These allow us to move one or more people vertically for construction tasks, maintenance or different uses.
These scissor lift platforms are ideal for indoor and outdoor spaces, i.e. where easy and quick access to high areas is needed and of course, where the manoeuvrability of the platform is paramount. They are optimal for moving on flat and solid work surfaces.
WHAT ARE SCISSOR LIFT PLATFORMS?
Scissor lift platforms operate in a scissor-type lifting mechanism, named for the way in which the structure is presented, opens and closes in sections, reminiscent of scissors.

The hydraulic system is responsible for providing the necessary power to raise or lower the platform smoothly and safely:
- Lifting: When the operator lifts the platform, the hydraulic pump pushes fluid through the cylinders that run through the mechanism, thus causing the piston to move and the platform to rise. The platform does not go down if a stop is made since there is a valve that prevents the fluid from returning, in this way, the platform remains at the desired height.
- Lowering: when the operator lowers the platform the safety valve opens, then gravity and the weight of the platform itself cause the piston to push the fluid, returning it to the storage tank and causing the scissor mechanism to close.
WHAT ARE SCISSOR LIFT PLATFORMS USED FOR?
A scissor lift platform It is a machine designed to carry out work at different heights. These scissor lift platforms They have a basket in which the operator operates the platform through a control panel.
The main function of scissor lift platforms is to meet the logistical needs in certain situations in which freedom of movement is required.
These platforms provide superior security and stability. In addition, they allow several operators to work at height. The load supported by these scissor lift platforms is higher than that of single-person lifts.
This type of machine is very adaptable and manageable within the terrain or surface used. Its drive axles allow a good turn and it is fixed in the exact place where it wants to be used.
An advantage to take into account is that its maintenance is easy and very affordable. Manufacturers design robust and powerful machines, made to work in places where any mishap is possible.
Another advantage that should not be overlooked is that there is enough space to transport materials on the scissor lift platform and thus be able to work more easily on it and safely, since it incorporates a railing that surrounds the platform for the protection of the worker or workers who are on it doing the work.
They are a good solution to architectural barriers, or a good auxiliary element that facilitates ergonomics.
On many occasions, the investment in a scissor lift platform avoids greater expense in the company, as it avoids the carrying out of certain reforms and simplifies the necessary civil works and the installation process.
WHAT PARTS ARE SCISSOR LIFT LIFTS MADE OF?
Scissor lift platforms are mainly composed of 3 parts:
- Work platform: table where goods or people are loaded.
- Extendable structure: It is attached to the chassis at the bottom and the work platform at the other end, so it can be moved to the required position.
- Chassis: It is the base of the scissor lift platform. It can be self-propelled, pushed or towed, as well as being located on the ground, with wheels, hydraulic legs…
MAIN FEATURES OF SCISSOR LIFT PLATFORMS
This type of lifting machines, in addition to being environmentally friendly due to their low energy consumption, have the following characteristics to take into account:
- They are easily manipulated and are very reliable machines.
- Its operation is clean and quiet in a wide variety of environments.
- Electric propulsion and integrated hydraulic components will keep the machine working longer and therefore reduce operating costs by reducing the possibility of leaks and service calls.
- They have a tight turning radius, which gives them greater maneuverability.
WHAT TYPES OF SCISSOR LIFT PLATFORMS ARE THERE?
There are two types of scissor lift platforms: diesel and electric.
Obviously, this differentiation only refers to the type of fuel they need to work, but we cannot equate them as the same as both types have many differences.
ELECTRIC SCISSOR LIFT PLATFORMS
This type of scissor lift platforms are designed and recommended for indoors. The reason for this is that with a difference in level greater than 2% they are not operational.
The main advantage of these electric scissor lift platforms is the reduction of energy expenditure and of course, they are quieter.
DIESEL SCISSOR LIFT PLATFORMS
The Diesel Scissor Lift Platforms They are designed for outdoor work. Not only because diesel gives them more charging power, but also because their size is larger and complicates their use indoors or enclosed spaces . They adapt much better to unevenness and can reach up to a lateral extension of 3 meters.
However, the pollution and energy expenditure is much higher than that of electric scissor lifts.
In short, the scissor lift platform will greatly facilitate our work, offering us great freedom of movement and greatly increasing its productivity.
Not sure which platform to choose? Contact us and we will advise you so that your choice is the right one.

