Table Lifts
Of the many hydraulic tools, one of the most versatile is the hydraulic lift table. From small workbenches to large platforms, these efficient and valuable tools have proven to be a means for saving time and labor. With the ability to hold any type of merchandise, tool, or equipment, table lifts provide a safe and convenient way to effortlessly complete a task.
Hydraulic flat surface lifts allow workers to set the height at which they wish to work as well as offer an ergonomically efficient method to inspect and handle various types of items. Lift tables are designed to lift heavy loads for the protection and safety of workers.
Quick links to Table Lifts Information
Design of a Table Lift
Hydraulic lift tables have a very simple and compact design that consists of a:
- Flat Platform
- Base
- Some Form of Legs
- Hydraulic Cylinders
- Motor
All of the components are made of steel or stainless steel to ensure the table's ability to withstand rugged use.
- Table Lift Platform
- The platform is where the item to be lifted is placed. The platform comes in several forms, which include:
- Flat Welded Steel
- Conveyor Rollers
- Perforated Surfaces
- The thickness and type of the platform depend on how the table will be used, with some stressful applications requiring a sturdier and more durable surface.
- Table Lift Bases
- There are several varieties of table bases that vary according to the needs of the application. Some tables have wheels and can function like a forklift. This type of table provides greater mobility and flexibility. Tables that are used for welding, metal work, and heavy-duty use have a four-sided rigid steel base for extra stability.
- Table Lift Legs
- A common part of a table lift is scissor legs that are moved up and down by the hydraulic pump system. The number of legs varies between two up to as many as eight. The heavier the workpiece the more legs the table requires.
- Table Lift Hydraulics
- The key to a table lift is its motor and hydraulic cylinders. Much like the other aspects of the table, the number of hydraulic cylinders varies. For heavy duty work, the hydraulic pump system may have as many eight to ten cylinders. The number is limited by the size of the platform.
- Table Lift Lifting Mechanism
- The lifting mechanism for a hydraulic table lift includes a motor to power the hydraulic cylinders. It can be located under the table by the cylinders, attached to the side, or be a remote power pack. The power of the motor is dependent on the number of cylinders and the use of the table.
Operating a Table Lift
When the motor of the hydraulic lift table is activated, oil is pushed into the ram of the hydraulic cylinders. The force of the ram compresses the oil, which pushes the table upward. When the appropriate height is reached, the ram remains in position holding the platform in place.
The determination of how rapidly the table raises the load is decided by the weight of the load. Each type of table lift is designed to conform to a specific capacity, which can be a few hundred pounds up to several hundred. Tables with lighter load capacity rise quickly.
To lower the table, the motor releases the oil and the ram retracts slowly, lowering the load and the table.