Lift Tables 101: Everything You Need to Know About Lift Tables

For those who work in the manufacturing industry, a lift table can be a virtual lifesaver, especially when it comes to a busy environment. With all the lifting, bending, pulling, pushing, and standing required of frontline workers, it is little wonder that assistive technologies are in such high demand.

As you can imagine, the frequent, repetitive tasks that often accompany factory work can eventually wreak havoc on the body if the worker is not being adequately supported. Lift table features are an effective solution to this type of overexertion and fatigue. In terms of safety, ergonomics, efficiency, productivity, and potential workplace injuries and liability, lift tables are simply a must-have. Let’s take a closer look at the function and key features of different types of lift tables.

Lift Table Features: What Is a Lift Table Mechanism?

A lift table may sound complex, but in truth, this innovative solution is quite simple to both understand and operate. Essentially, a lift table is any type of platform that is capable of holding, raising, and lowering materials. The platform itself can be adjusted to the desired height, therefore meeting the needs of various applications and user requirements.

Although similar in nature, lift tables are initiated by somewhat different mechanisms.

Scissor lift tables use scissor shaped arms that separate to lift and raise the platform. They have the capacity to lift heavy loads and provide a strong platform for electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic mechanisms.
Screw scissor lift tables have a screw mechanism that contracts and expands to raise or lower the table. The screw mechanism is located in the base of the table’s structure and raises when the screw moves in a clockwise direction.
Belt drive lift tables have an electric motor that drives a set of belts to use scissors as their lifting method. These tables come in different sized platforms and can be designed for a specific application.
Rack and pinion tables use a rigid support to lift extra heavy loads. Much like how a car jack mechanism works, a geared electric motor turns the pinion gear that adjusts the height of the table.
An articulated lift table is similar to a cherry picker that lifts a worker. It is powered by an electric motor and uses a two-part lifting mechanism to raise and lower the work surface to the desired height.

Types of Lift Tables

There are four different types of lift tables available on the market today (although hybrid models are a possibility) based on their power source.

Manual lift tables are operated by a simple machine such as a crank, rachet, screw, or pump that is initiated by either a hand or a foot pedal system.
A pneumatic lift table refers to a pneumatic air lift system that does not require a power source to operate. Instead, a pressurized air cylinder uses air compression to adjust the platform to the desired height. This eliminates the need for any oils, lubricants, or fluids as part of the lifting system.
Hydraulic lift tables, on the other hand, are powered by hydraulic fluid that is forced in and out of a cylinder, causing the scissor legs to separate and thereby raise the platform.
Electric lift tables run on batteries, have an electrical cord for an outlet, or use a combination of both. The cord supplies power and recharges the battery. An on and off switch is used for safety reasons.

The Value of the Lift Table

There is much value to be found in lift table carts, regardless of which lift table mechanism or power source is being used to operate the device. Be it a manual, pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric, all lift tables provide a welcome reprieve from repetitive workplace tasks. Prime advantages of a lift table include:

Less physical strain on frontline workers
Greater ergonomic support and comfort level
Reduced risk of job-related injury
Increased presenteeism and morale
Elevated workplace safety and efficiency
Increased speed and productivity
Great return on your initial investment

Different Types of Hydraulic Lift Tables

Lift tables consist of an adjustable platform that is supported by a rigid base. An assistive and ergonomic technology, a lift table is designed to hold materials and raise or lower them to the desired height, depending on industrial application. This creates a stable and comfortable workstation for employees to perform such jobs as sorting parts or doing repairs, to name a few.

Although lift tables come in a variety of different forms, including manual and pneumatic, most lifts use hydraulically driven scissor legs to separate and lift the table’s platform. As hydraulic fluid is forced in and out of a cylinder, the table is forced to rise. And there you have it – a hydraulic lift table.

Which Hydraulic Lift Table Is Right for You?

In order to select the best type of hydraulic lift table for your needs, let’s take a closer look at some of the different options available in today’s market. There are four types of hydraulic lift tables that are most commonly used:

Level Loaders Lifting Table: Along with typical hydraulic lift table features such as the ability to raise, lower, and adjust the platform position, level loaders boast a 360-degree rotatable base. What does this mean in practical terms? Greater flexibility and range of motion allows for increased comfort and productivity. When workers are completing repetitive job tasks, level loaders offer a welcome alternative to lifting, pulling, bending, and pushing. This type of hydraulic lift table is ideal for assembly line work in manufacturing facilities.
Stainless Steel Lifting Table: As the name suggests, stainless steel lifting tables are made of stainless steel, thereby providing additional protection from rust and corrosion. For this reason, stainless steel lifting tables are a popular choice in the food, pharmaceutical, and healthcare sectors. Like other lift tables, a hydraulic mechanism is used to adjust the base to the correct height application.
High-Level Lift Table: If you want to reach great heights without sacrificing worker safety, the high-level lift table is your best solution. These lift tables extend to maximum height capacity to go beyond human reach. Due to this unique application, high-level lift tables are often used in warehouses to load and unload merchandise, elevate workers to a higher level, and access stored items.
Floor-Level Lift Table: Floor-level lift tables are of particular benefit to a mature and diverse working population. By offering increased accessibility, these ground level lift tables make pallet lifting easier and less time-consuming in a busy warehouse environment.

Choosing the Best Hydraulic Lift Table

While every hydraulic lift table performs a somewhat similar function, each one has something unique to offer the consumer. Once you have identified the exact type of hydraulic lift table that best suits your needs, selecting the right model comes next. But with so many available options, how do you determine which device to purchase?

According to industry experts, the following elements should be given due consideration:

Capacity – How much weight is the table lift capable of bearing?
Stroke – What is the maximum height that the table lift is designed to reach?
Size – Is the size of the tabletop area sufficient for its intended use?
Safety – What are the associated risks when it comes to safety?

The answer to these questions will soon help you to find the right hydraulic lift table for your business. It is also worth noting that many lift tables can be customized to meet your specific application. Speak to a lift table expert for more information and specific recommendations tailored to your unique needs.

What Is a Hydraulic Lift Table?

Simply put, a hydraulic lift table is a mechanism that uses hydraulic fluid to lift a table. As the hydraulic pump moves fluid in and out of a cylinder, scissor legs are forced to separate and raise the table’s platform, thereby raising the load.

What Are the Benefits of a Hydraulic Lift Table?

Increased Safety and Productivity: Hydraulic lift tables protect workers from possible injury by reducing the need for repetitive movements such as bending, stretching, pulling, pushing, and lifting. A hydraulic lift table saves both time and energy, leading to increased production. Greater job satisfaction and presenteeism are healthy byproducts of such efficiency.
Versatility: Hydraulic lift tables are designed to move people, product, and equipment. They also have the capacity to raise, lower, and adjust the position of a table, depending on specific applications. This versatility makes hydraulic lift tables a much sought after product in the busy warehouse and manufacturing environment.
Accessibility and Ease of Use: Accessibility is key to a diverse workforce. A hydraulic lift table is easy to use and requires very little instruction to operate successfully. Therefore, many industries can benefit from its use, without the need for additional training or resources.
Cost Effective: One of the best things about a hydraulic lift table is the ample return on your investment. Hydraulic lift tables are an affordable option for those looking to minimize risk and maximize potential in the workplace.The initial purchase of this product can create tremendous cost savings by keeping workers safe and reducing workplace injuries that may result in long absences and WSIB claims. Increased production speed lowers operational costs and contributes to a higher profit margin.
Durability: Hydraulic lift tables are built to last for many years. Solid construction and low maintenance mean less hassle, downtime, and more support for frontline workers.

What Is an Electric Lift Table?

An electric lift table – also known as an electro-hydraulic lift table – is a mechanical device that is typically used within the material handling industry to lift and lower heavy loads. An electro-hydraulic lift table has the same structure as a standard lift table, as it can be reduced to the platform, scissor legs, and base; however, electric tables are powered by an electric motor. Electro-hydraulic lift tables are most commonly used in manufacturing and industrial environments like warehouses and distribution centers.

What Are the Benefits of an Electric Lift Table?

Electric lift tables are a fantastic solution for load transferring, industrial moving, and positioning. They also elevate workplace productivity and safety by performing the constant lifting and bending that otherwise would be left to workers.

There are countless benefits of introducing an electro-hydraulic lift table to your workplace, but here are four of the most significant highlights:

Automation: Electric lift tables provide increased automation in the workplace. From load positioning to conveyor systems, electro-hydraulic lift tables reduce the amount of manual labor involved in transferring heavy loads.
Material Handling: With an electro-hydraulic lift table, your workers do less load lifting and work in more ergonomic positions. This reduces their health and safety risks while at work and makes the lifting and lowering process more efficient, improving your bottom line.
Heavy Machinery: When it comes to lifting or lowering heavy machinery, the electric motor that powers electro-hydraulic lift tables means your workers can easily approach complex tasks with greater ease.
Accuracy: Compared to foot pedal or manual lift tables, electric lift tables are much more precise and smooth due to the lack of unstable movements caused by compression and pistons.

What Electric Lift Table Options Are Available?

When choosing your electro-hydraulic lift table, it is important to know that most motors are alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). Whether an electro-hydraulic lift table uses an AC or a DC current in its motor depends on the purpose and required range of the chosen application. The most commonly used motors are 12v DC motors, but there are 24v options which are more suited to heavy-duty applications in which more pressure and a higher force are required. It is also worth noting that many lift tables can be customized to meet a specific application.

What Is a Scissor Lift Table?

While many variations exist, all scissor lift tables perform the same basic function. Essentially, a scissor lift table employs a scissor mechanism to help lift goods and materials. This mechanism assists frontline workers by providing ergonomic support to move or store items at different heights. For this reason, scissor lift tables are a must have in a variety of different manufacturing and material handling environments.

How Does a Scissor Lift Table Work?

A scissor lift table is powered by either hydraulic fluid or compressed air. Once the power source is activated, one or more cylinders fill up and force the scissor legs to separate, thereby lifting the platform. Scissor lift tables have the capacity to raise or lower the platform to a desired height. Therefore, they can accommodate different loads and applications.

In order to choose the best scissor lift table for your business, it is important to examine the benefits of both hydraulic scissor lift tables and pneumatic scissor lift tables.

Hydraulic Scissor Lift Table

This lift runs on hydraulic fluid and generally has an electric or air-powered motor. Here are some advantages to using this type of lift table:

Ease of Use: Due to simplicity of design, operators can easily adjust their speed as needed. A set of levers and buttons are used to control all functions.
Strength: A small amount of force is multiplied by a hydraulic system, allowing workers to lift thousands of pounds with ease. Hydraulic scissor lift tables can lift much heavier loads than pneumatic scissor lift tables. Load capacity is a major factor for certain industries, making a hydraulic scissor lift the preferred choice.
Consistency: Changes in speed do not affect torque or force. In other words, fluid power enables this device to perform effectively and consistently over time.

Pneumatic Scissor Lift Table

This lift is powered by compressed air and does not require electricity to operate. Advantages of this lift table include:

Green Product: Pneumatic power is environmentally friendly. As a result, it can be used in a variety of different settings, including food and pharmaceutical industries.
Speed: Since their medium is air, pneumatic lifts tend to operate faster than hydraulic scissor lift tables. Time constraints are an important consideration for some businesses.
Safety: Using compressed air eliminates any exposure to hydraulic fluids and risk of possible contamination. It is safe for the environment and the individual worker.

What Is a Pneumatic Lift Table?

Pneumatic lift tables are powered by an air compressor that exerts force on scissor legs in order to lift and lower the attached platform to the desired height.

What Are the Benefits of a Pneumatic Lift Table?

Like all lift tables, pneumatic lift tables assist workers by reducing the need for repetitive movements such as bending, stretching, pulling, pushing, and lifting. This translates into fewer workplace injuries and greater presenteeism. The use of lift tables in a factory also elevates production speed, which helps to lower operating costs and increase overall profit. But what makes the pneumatic lift table design such a great choice? A pneumatic lift table has several advantages to warrant its recommendation.

Green Product: Pneumatic power is clean and green. No electricity is required to operate a pneumatic lift table. As a result, pneumatic lift tables are safe to use in a variety of different settings and applications, including in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Easy Access: Not only are pneumatic lift tables simple to install and maintain, but they are easy to operate as well. Without the need for on-site electricity, a pneumatic lift table can function in multiple locations, including the great outdoors.
Cost Effective: In addition to increasing profit through enhanced productivity, pneumatic lift tables are less expensive than similar options, such as hydraulic lift tables. A pneumatic lift table essentially pays for itself over time thanks to long-term cost savings.
Safety Conscious: Because pneumatic lift tables are powered by an air compressor, they are safer for both the environment and individual workers. The choice of a pneumatic lift table eliminates any possible exposure to hydraulic fluids and the risk of environmental contamination.
Reliability: A pneumatic lift table is a reliable device. It can accommodate many different applications and requires very little effort to maintain or repair. The design of the pneumatic lift table allows it to withstand extreme weather and other environmental conditions.

What Is a Manual Lift Table?

The manual lift table is the most basic of the lift table family as it is operated by the workers themselves with either a manual hand pump or a manual foot pump.

Typically, the manual lift table is used in industrial environments such as warehouses, workshops, and other areas where the lifting, lowering, and positioning of materials and products are required.

How Does a Manual Lift Table Work?

A manual lift table works like most of the other members of the lift table family. Manual lift tables typically consist of a platform which is mounted on a scissor lift mechanism. However, unlike electric lift tables, manual lift tables are operated by the workers with a manual hand pump, crank, or foot pump.

When the workers put pressure on the pump, they can raise or lower the height of the tabletop to the desired level. This process simplifies lifting, lowering, and positioning heavy materials, requiring less laborious work from the operator.

By turning the crank or pumping the handle, the user can lift the platform, and when they release the pressure, the platform is lowered in a controlled manner.

What Are the Benefits of a Manual Lift Table?

The benefits of using a manual lift table within your workplace to increase the efficiency of your applications are endless. However, here are four of the most notable benefits:

Cost-Effectiveness: Manual lift tables have the capability to carry out the same tasks as their powered counterparts, but they tend to have a lower initial upfront cost, making them an affordable solution for businesses in the materials handling industry.
No Need for a Power Source: Manual lift tables are operated by hand, so they do not need batteries or any form of electricity to work. This makes manual lift tables an excellent alternative to electric options in environments where power is less accessible.
Easy to Use: Manual lift tables are incredibly easy to operate due to the hand pump, crank, or foot pump options.
Portable: In most cases, manual lift tables are designed with portable functionality in mind, making them easy to transport to different locations when necessary.

What Is a Pallet Lift Table?

A pallet lift table is exactly what the name suggests – a table mechanism used to lift pallets. Instead of bending or stretching to lift materials, workers can utilize a pallet lift table to position their work at the desired height for increased comfort and accessibility. Pallet lift tables consist of a platform base that is connected by a pair of scissor legs and powered by either hydraulics or pneumatics. Weight distribution determines how the pallet lift table moves. When weight is added, the lift table raises. When weight is removed, the lift table lowers. There are even some pallet lift tables with rollers to allow for increased mobility and ease of use.

Benefits of a Pallet Lift Table

Whether you are in the market for a hydraulic pallet lift table or a pneumatic pallet lift table, this device is a guaranteed gamechanger. Here are some of the benefits you can expect from pallet lift tables:

Enhanced Safety: Elevated comfort and accessibility for workers means enhanced safety. Because pallet lift tables reduce physical strain on the body, there is less risk of injury on-the-job, resulting in improved attendance and workplace morale, and fewer workplace injury claims.
Increased Productivity: The use of a pallet lift table speeds up the manufacturing process, leading to increased productivity. Valuable time and resources can be saved through this simple but powerful solution.
High Rate of Return: Pallet lift tables are well worth the initial cost of purchase since they ultimately save money down the line. As highlighted above, this device enhances both safety and productivity. In other words, it pays to invest in a pallet lift table.

Industrial Applications of a Pallet Lift Table

Like most lift tables, a pallet lift table can help workers to perform a variety of different functions in a comfortable and convenient environment. Industrial applications for this type of assistive technology include:

Vehicle Loading and Docking: Pallet lift tables reduce the amount of time needed to load trucks, as fewer workers are required to complete this vital task.
Work Positioning: In addition to achieving the optimal height for work, pallet lift tables contribute to a more flexible and easier-to-use workspace.
Materials Positioning: A pallet lift table allows materials to be positioned for minimum distance and maximum accessibility.
Ergonomic Handling: Proper ergonomic support is a key application for pallet lift tables.
Product Distribution: With the assistance of a pallet lift table, products can be distributed safely and efficiently.
Machine Feeding: Rather than feeding a machine by hand, pallet lift tables eliminate the need for manual labor and help expedite the manufacturing process.

Lift Table Parts and Accessories

At its core, lift table parts can be reduced to the platform, scissors, and base frame. Additional lift table accessories can be added to make a more complex design tailored to achieving specific tasks within the material handling industry, but a stripped-down lift table will include these three main components.

Basic Lift Table Parts: The Platform

The platform is used to carry the load the user is lifting. Various designs and configurations of the platform suit limitless use cases. However, one cannot get creative with the minimum length and width of the platform. These two factors rely on a particular lift table's base frame and scissors.

Basic Lift Table Parts: Scissors

Arguably, the most defining feature of a lift table is the scissor mechanism. Without scissors, the primary function of a lift table – lowering or raising materials – cannot be accomplished.

The scissors are the mechanical connection between the platform and the base frame. Typically, the scissors consist of two different parts, which are connected by a bolt, and in most cases, the lifting motion is facilitated by hydraulic cylinders. As the scissor lift parts begin to move apart, the platform is easily lifted or lowered.

Basic Lift Table Parts: The Base Frame

The primary purpose of the base frame is to support the lift table structure. However, that does not mean that the base frame design has to be basic – depending on variable factors, the base frame can be designed to have several layers of complexity.

Sometimes, the base frame does not have to be incredibly rigid. Usually, in cases such as these, it is because the base frame is directly attached to the floor, so the base frame only has to consist of a simple metal plate as it acts as a surface to fasten the fixed bearing.

For a complete list of recommended lift table accessories, check out our blog post on Lift Table Parts and Accessories for Optimal Performance.

Should You Buy a Used Lift Table?

Deciding whether to buy a new or used lift table is a tough call. There are a number of options to choose from and many variables to consider. For example, type of lift table, frequency of use, and intended application are all key factors in determining if a new or used lift table will meet your needs.

As with any major acquisition, certain questions should be answered well in advance of purchase. This is especially true when it comes to pre-owned material handling equipment. Here is what you need to know before taking the plunge and making that big investment.

Do Your Research

In order to find the right piece of equipment and ensure maximum return on investment, try to research the product and the company itself.

Find a reputable dealer with a professional website and positive reviews.
Ask for an inspection prior to purchase.
Request a copy of maintenance records.
View the lift table in person.

Consider the Cost of a Used Lift Table vs New

It is important to remember that the cost of purchase may not necessarily negate the cost of repairs. While price point is an important consideration, you must set realistic expectations regarding performance and longevity.

Choose a used lift table for sale in the range of 50% off the original price (anything more than 50% off may signal poor quality).
Weigh the pros and cons of the initial investment versus potential repairs.
Calculate the difference in life expectancy based on the age of purchase.
Remember to shop around and compare prices between reputable dealers.

Mitigate Any Risks

This is the time to reflect on your own unique situation. In other words, what are the specific needs of your company and does a used lift table match these goals? Ask yourself the following questions:

How often are you planning to use the lift table (and are replacement parts readily available on the market)?
Are you an established business with built-up capital or just starting out (and looking for a way to get ahead while saving money)?
Does the lift table meet your basic needs (without customization)?
Do you have other assistive technologies to support operations (or will this be your sole, and therefore, most critical purchase)?

All these considerations should be taken into account when deciding whether to buy a used lift table. You may also benefit from looking at the advantages and disadvantages of purchasing a used lift table. For a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of Buying a Used Lift Table, check out our comprehensive blog post.

How to Choose the Best Lift Table Solution for Your Application

When it comes to choosing the perfect lift table for your application, the sheer number of options available can make the buying process feel overwhelming. As such, it is crucial to pause and consider the key factors that set different lift tables apart.

Features to Consider When Selecting a Lift Table

When it comes to choosing the best lift table solution for your individual application, there are a few different factors that you need to consider:

Load Capacity: Lift tables can range considerably in terms of load capacity. For example, from 100kg to 4 tonnes (220 to 8,818 lbs). Knowing what load capacity you need your lift table to have will help you narrow the search.
Load-Lifting Height: Some lift tables are able to lift heavy loads up to 10 meters (33 ft) high, but others have a much lower load-lifting height. It is important to know your requirements in terms of load-lifting because the higher the load-lifting height, the higher the cost. Knowing what your load-lifting requirements are in advance of purchasing your lift table can save time and money in the long run.
Tabletop Size: The size of the tabletop is vital and should be chosen based on the items you intend to move with your lift table – measure the largest possible items to avoid any surprises later down the line.
Usage Frequency: Consider whether your lift table will be performing continuous work or intermittent work. Also consider the lifting time – this is how long it takes for the lift table to unfold. These two factors will also impact which lift table is right for you and your application.

How to Choose the Right Lift Table for Your Application

Now that you have a thorough understanding of some of the nuances that come with choosing the right lift table for your application, here is a brief guide on how to choose a lift table based on your application.

Manual lift tables are the perfect fit in most industrial environments, especially if your application involves frequent lowering and raising of lighter loads.
Electro-hydraulic lift tables are well-suited for stationary applications where efficiency is a priority due to the convenience provided by the on and off switch.
Hydraulic lift tables offer a safe and efficient solution due to their ability to safely lift and lower heavy loads. This is ideal for use in a warehouse, a construction site, or any other industrial environment.
Pneumatic lift tables have a similar use case to hydraulic lift tables as they are suitable for more heavy-duty lifting and lowering, although it is worth noting that hydraulic lift tables tend to be able to lift heavier loads than pneumatic lift tables. However, unlike hydraulic lift tables, pneumatic lift tables do not require on-site electricity. If access to on-site electricity is problematic, pneumatic lift tables are an optimal solution.