While using the proper equipment can make work easier and more efficient, the wrong equipment can be troublesome, or even dangerous.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) accidents with workplace equipment are one of the leading causes of death on the job.
Luckily, when it comes to a choice between a vertical reciprocating conveyor (VRC) or a scissor lift, it’s typically not a matter of life and death. Even so, it’s still important to choose the lift that best suits the needs of your workplace and employees.
So how can you choose between these two lifts? Here are a few factors to consider.
Defining Terms
In order to choose between these two lifts, it’s important to understand what they are and what they do.
A vertical reciprocating conveyor is a stationary piece of equipment designed to raise and lower materials. VRCs are usually powered either mechanically or hydraulically. While hydraulic lifts are less expensive, they cannot usually travel as quickly as mechanical lifts can.
By contrast, a scissor lift is a portable lift table that can raise or lower to your desired height. These lifts tend to be powered hydraulically.
Lift Installation
VRCs are fixed installations, so they are perfect for corners or unused elevator shafts. If the lift is installed this way, it can move equipment between multiple floors on a work site.
By contrast, the scissor option is portable, and is usually on wheels. This can be more convenient if you need to be able to use the lift in multiple places around your work site. Also, while a VRC must be assembled on site, the scissor is assembled at the factory and arrives at your worksite.
Load Capacity
Since a scissor lift is a table lift, you are more restricted with load size than with a VRC. Many of these lifts also include a railing around the table, which allows a worker to get on the lift with the object.
While this can be convenient, it also poses a risk for injury. So, if you do decide to place workers on the lift, make sure to inspect it regularly and address malfunctions immediately.
Speed and Height
Another benefit of the VRC over other types of lifts is speed. Mechanical VRCs can often get up to 100 fpm. Additionally, a VRC can get to greater heights than other types of lifts.
Choosing the Scissor Lift or VRC that’s Right for You
With these factors in mind, you will be able to choose the lift that is right for you and your workers. If you are looking for speed in a fixed place, the ability to lift larger/heavier loads, and increased safety – a VRC is perfect for you!
If you’re ready for your VRC, or still have questions, contact us. We can supply you with new materials, or provide parts and service for equipment you already have.