A knuckle boom crane looks similar to a regular crane. The main difference is that the boom can fold back like a finger as the boom articulates at the "knuckle" near the middle. This allows the machine to be able to transform into a compact size for storage and maneuvering.
Knuckle boom crane arms are somewhat a little lighter than boom truck cranes. These crane arms are made to enable more payloads to be carried on the back of the vehicle it is mounted on. Nearly all knuckle boom cranes are mounted at the rear of 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 equipment is less than 15,000 lbs. or if the boom's maximum length is less than 25 feet long.
There are various kinds of control systems for the cranes. Like for instance, there is control from the ground, radio remote control, seated and stand up control. The radio remote systems could run the crane as well as starting it. Additionally, many models come equipped with a computer readout system that immediately provides system readouts reporting if the crane is overloaded or not.
Personnel Lifts
Snorkel Personnel Lifts are designed for contractors and facilities maintenance professionals. These lifts are lightweight, portable, affordable work platforms made for interior use. The patented Girder Lock mast design by Snorkel provides excellent reach and superb stability. This system, used in the UL Series, provides great lift capacity.
The Snorkel UL Series Personnel and PAM Series lifts have been designed and built so as to be easy for one person to use. These equipment can be transported easily. They could easily be pushed smoothly into position and pass through a standard sized doorway. These lifts are capable of being erected in minutes and being able to provide working heights of up to 46 feet, they are an effective option to scaffold towers.