The functioning mechanism of a scissor lift is based on the expansion and contraction of a series of crossed support arms (also known as scissor legs or parallelogram mechanisms), which enable the platform to rise and descend. Below is a detailed explanation of its main components and working principles:
Main Components
1.Platform
The platform is the working surface that carries workers or work objects, typically equipped with guardrails for safety.
2.Scissor Legs
The scissor legs are made of metal support rods arranged in a crossed pattern (similar to the “X” shape of scissors), connecting the platform to the base. By expanding or contracting, the scissor legs enable the platform to rise or descend.
3.Cylinders (Hydraulic or Pneumatic)
Scissor lifts usually have 1 to 4 cylinders, which control the platform’s movement by adjusting the pressure inside the cylinders.
4.Base
The base is the supporting structure of the lift, often designed with tracks to guide the wheels at the bottom of the scissor legs, ensuring smooth lifting and lowering.
5.Power Source
Scissor lifts can be driven by various power sources, including hydraulic systems, pneumatic systems, electric motors, or diesel engines, depending on the work environment and application.
6.Down Valve
The down valve controls the speed at which hydraulic fluid or compressed air returns to the reservoir, regulating the platform’s descent.
7.Flow Control Valve
The flow control valve regulates the speed at which hydraulic fluid or compressed air enters or exits the reservoir, controlling the platform’s lifting and lowering speed.
Working Principles
1.Lifting and Lowering Process
●Raising: When hydraulic fluid or compressed air is pumped into the cylinders, the piston extends outward, causing the scissor legs to expand and lifting the platform.
●Lowering: By opening the down valve, hydraulic fluid or compressed air returns to the reservoir, causing the scissor legs to contract and lowering the platform.
2.Stability
The scissor legs are designed based on the geometry of a parallelogram, which maintains stability during expansion and contraction, ensuring the platform remains parallel to the base at all times.
3.Power System
●Hydraulic System: A hydraulic pump pressurizes the hydraulic fluid into the cylinders, pushing the piston outward to raise the platform.
●Pneumatic System: Compressed air drives the cylinders, suitable for environments without hydraulic requirements.
●Electric System: Suitable for indoor or low-noise environments.
Scissor lifts are widely used in industrial, construction, and warehousing fields for tasks such as high-altitude work, material handling, and equipment maintenance.Through this mechanism, scissor lifts can safely and efficiently complete lifting tasks while providing a stable working platform.
