what is a cherry picker forklift
What is a Cherry Picker Forklift? A Deep Dive into Vertical Lifting
The term "cherry picker" often evokes images of fruit orchards and agricultural harvesting. However, in the realm of material handling and construction, a cherry picker refers to a specific type of aerial work platform, more formally known as a boom lift or articulating boom lift. While sometimes confused with forklifts, cherry pickers serve a distinct purpose: providing access to elevated areas for tasks like maintenance, construction, and order picking. This article will delve into the specifics of cherry picker forklifts, exploring their functionality, applications, and key considerations.
Defining the Cherry Picker:
A cherry picker, in its industrial context, is a powered aerial work platform with a distinct boom that allows the operator to reach areas both vertically and horizontally. This differentiates it from a standard forklift, which primarily focuses on lifting and transporting loads at ground level or onto raised platforms. While some specialized forklifts, like a reach truck, can lift loads to considerable heights, their primary function remains load handling, not personnel access. A cherry picker's primary function is to safely elevate personnel to work at height.
Key Features and Types:
Cherry pickers come in various configurations, each designed for specific applications:
Articulating Boom Lifts: These lifts feature multiple hinged sections in their boom, allowing for complex movements and reaching over obstacles. This versatility makes them ideal for tasks requiring access to hard-to-reach locations.
Telescopic Boom Lifts: These lifts have a single, extendable boom, offering a direct reach to high elevations. They are well-suited for tasks requiring maximum vertical reach.
Stick Boom Lifts: A simpler form of telescopic boom, these provide straight vertical reach.
Scissor Lifts: While often grouped with boom lifts, scissor lifts operate on a different principle. They provide vertical access via a platform that raises and lowers like a pair of scissors. They are generally less versatile than boom lifts in terms of horizontal reach but are excellent for direct vertical access.
Cherry Picker vs. Forklift:
It's crucial to distinguish between a cherry picker and a forklift. A forklift, including models like the Hyster forklift, forklift diesel 3 tons, or the Heli forklift, is designed for material handling. Its primary function is to lift and move materials using forks. While some forklifts can reach considerable heights, their focus is on load handling, not personnel access. Cherry pickers, conversely, are designed specifically for lifting personnel to work at height. They prioritize safety features for personnel, such as guardrails and harness attachment points. While some cherry pickers might be capable of handling light materials in the basket, that is a secondary function, and they are not designed for the same kind of material handling as a forklift. Even a compact model like the Hangcha fork lift is primarily for material handling, not personnel lifting.
Applications of Cherry Pickers:
Cherry pickers find applications in a wide range of industries:
Construction: Used for tasks like installing roofing, siding, and electrical systems.
Maintenance: Ideal for maintaining buildings, streetlights, and signage.
Telecommunications: Used for installing and maintaining telephone and cable lines.
Utilities: Essential for working on power lines and other utility infrastructure.
Warehousing and Logistics: In some specialized cases, cherry pickers might be used for high-level order picking, although this is less common than using dedicated order pickers or electric lift stackers.
Arboriculture: Used for tree trimming and maintenance.
Safety Considerations:
Operating a cherry picker requires adherence to strict safety protocols:
Training: Operators must receive thorough training on the specific type of cherry picker they will be using.
Pre-Operation Inspections: Before each use, the cherry picker should be inspected for any defects or malfunctions.
Fall Protection: Operators must wear appropriate fall protection, including harnesses and lanyards, and attach them to designated anchor points.
Load Limits: Never exceed the cherry picker's rated load capacity, including the weight of the personnel and any materials being lifted.
Weather Conditions: Avoid operating cherry pickers in adverse weather conditions, such as high winds or storms.
Safe Operating Procedures: Follow all safe operating procedures outlined by the manufacturer and relevant safety regulations.
Surrounding Awareness: Be constantly aware of your surroundings, including overhead obstructions, other workers, and pedestrians.
Choosing the Right Cherry Picker:
Selecting the appropriate cherry picker depends on several factors:
Reach Height: Determine the maximum height required for the job.
Horizontal Reach: Consider the horizontal distance needed to reach the work area.
Terrain: Choose a cherry picker suitable for the terrain where it will be used. Some models are designed for rough terrain, while others are better suited for smooth surfaces.
Capacity: Ensure the cherry picker has sufficient load capacity for the personnel and materials being lifted.
Power Source: Cherry pickers can be powered by electricity, gasoline, or diesel. Electric models are often preferred for indoor use due to their quiet operation and lack of emissions.
Size and Maneuverability: Consider the size and maneuverability of the cherry picker, especially if it will be used in confined spaces.
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safe and reliable operation of a cherry picker. This includes:
Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of all components, including the boom, platform, hydraulic system, and tires.
Lubrication: Lubricate all moving parts according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Hydraulic Fluid Changes: Change the hydraulic fluid at recommended intervals.
Tire Maintenance: Maintain proper tire pressure and inspect tires for wear and damage.
Conclusion:
Cherry pickers are invaluable tools for accessing elevated areas safely and efficiently. Understanding their different types, applications, and safety requirements is essential for maximizing their productivity and minimizing the risk of accidents. Proper training, regular maintenance, and adherence to safety protocols are crucial for ensuring the safe operation of these versatile machines. While they share some similarities with forklifts in terms of being powered industrial trucks, their primary purpose of personnel lifting distinguishes them significantly, making them a vital piece of equipment for a wide range of industries.
