“Spider lis benefit from narrow dimen- sions and a compact footprint,” Wiss- muller continued. “They’re extremely versatile, easy to operate, and capable of impressive reach; this makes them ideal for a variety of tree care projects.” Despite their utility, spider lis have some limitations. Spider lis have a lower platform capacity compared to other mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPs), and like traditional boom lis, lack road-readiness. “A spider li is not fully mobile on its own,” Hilliard noted. “It can’t traverse highways and needs a support vehicle to tow it between job sites.” That means more time spent during set-up and break-down between jobs. RIGHT LIFT, RIGHT FIT Versatility or specialty, compactness or road-readiness? With advantages and drawbacks to each type of MEWP, it can be difficult to determine which one is the best fit for your operations. The good news is that there really is no wrong answer, but there are quite a few considerations to have in mind. “Everybody’s situation is different. There isn’t really a one-size-fits-all answer,” Wissmuller explained.
More than just an issue of space, determining the best aerial lift for a project also depends on the structure of the canopy and necessary permits.
Even with such impressive features, boom lis have a few disadvantages. As large machines, they exhibit similar challenges to bucket trucks, being diffi- cult to set up and maneuver in confined areas or sloped terrain. Traditional boom lis also present logistical challenges. “Being ANSI Class 3B devices, boom lis can’t go on the road,” Messina cau- tioned. “They are harder to transport because of their weight and require a Class A Commercial Driver’s License.” SPIDER LIFTS Spider lis are compact, lightweight devices with jointed stabilizers and extendable tracks. They provide excel- lent stability and weight displacement on uneven terrain. Of the three types of lis, spider lis are the easiest to maneuver and the best choice for tight spaces. “Spider li tracks have comparatively low PSI, so the ground pressure they exert is minimal,” Christian Wiss- muller, communications specialist
with All Access Equipment explained, “which means if you’re working in a landscaped area or backyard, you are less likely to damage the ground, patio, or flagstones.” Though small in stature, spider lis can be mighty, capable of reaching heights over 75 feet. Their compact design also allows them to access areas other aerial devices cannot.
Of the three types of lifts, spider lifts are the easiest to maneuver and the best choice for tight spaces.
18 | ArborTIMES Fall 2024
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