Rermag 5900 Genie Z6037fe Articulating Boom2 1
Rermag 5900 Genie Z6037fe Articulating Boom2 1
Rermag 5900 Genie Z6037fe Articulating Boom2 1
Rermag 5900 Genie Z6037fe Articulating Boom2 1
Rermag 5900 Genie Z6037fe Articulating Boom2 1

Going Higher More Efficiently

Aug. 29, 2016
Aerial work platform manufacturers talk about most effective new technology, safety factors, growing the aerial market, alternative fuels and more.

Participants                                                                                                             

Malcolm Early, vice president of marketing, Skyjack

Matthew Elvin, CEO, Snorkel

Matt Fearon, president, Genie Industries

Corey Raymo, global product director – booms, JLG Industries

Alexandre Saubot, chief operating officer, Haulotte Group

RER: What are the most important technological developments in aerial work platforms in the past year or so?

Early: There are two things worthy of mention. First: manufacturers’ responses to regulatory demands including those covering emissions. Although on the face of it the customer does not see a direct benefit (e.g. in terms of rental rates), the manufacturer is faced with a number of challenges to meet the demands in a cost effective way. So although maybe there are a few things that “stand out” there is great deal of system optimization that goes on behind the scenes.

Secondly, the desire for scissorlifts with greater platform and working heights that means scissor stack designs need to accommodate this need. Skyjacks SJ 4740 with a 45-foot working height is a case in point.

Fearon: The biggest technological advancements in AWP in the past year have been with hybrid technologies. Creating an AWP machine that is capable of working productively in rough terrain environments, as well as working in quiet, emission-free environments, is a challenge. One of the keys to success in this type of machine is the ability to transition seamlessly – going from a drive performance as offered by a full diesel power unit to a quiet electric machine. 

In addition, aerial OEMs, including Genie, have had to be creative with managing the weight of the machine, while not giving up on key specifications of height and outreach, balanced with power output needed from hybrid technology to run the machine. We have also had to design high-efficiency components, to provide a machine with rough terrain capability that is not too heavy. When designed well, hybrid technology can be made to work well in a rough terrain machine. These technological advances are keys to the success and growth of the AWP market. 

Photo courtesy of JLG.

JLG recently announced that our revolutionary SkyGuard system will be standard on all booms globally after January 2017. When activated, JLG’s SkyGuard system stops all functions in use at the time, then temporarily reverses most functions that were in use when the system was activated. This reverse functionality is the only feature of its kind in the market.

Operator safety is the number one priority for us at JLG and the driver behind many of our product innovations, and is becoming more and more of a focus for our customers in the industry. 

In addition, we are seeing the ability to go higher, more efficiently than in the past due to new technologies available. At Bauma 2016 JLG previewed the world’s tallest and farthest reaching articulating boom lift, the 1500AJP, with a working envelope of more than 74,000 cubic meters of reachable space. The 1500AJP, which will be available for shipment to customers in early 2017, allows operators to reach more work space and take more materials with them than any other articulating boom lift. In addition, the 1500AJP offers 1,000-pound platform capacity that is available throughout the vast majority of the working envelope. Technology was a key enabler to allow JLG to develop this completely new version of its 150-foot articulating boom that has improved performance specs, along with improved transportability due to its more compact transport size.

Other key technological developments we are seeing in the industry and on JLG AWPs are more fuel efficient engines due to fully variable/on-demand engine RPMs, use of electronics instead of hydraulics to improve comfort and diagnostics, and use of AC Drive motor technologies to improve overall efficiencies and lower total cost of ownership for customers.

Saubot: In the last few years, the ability of all manufacturers to provide safer equipment has been one of the most important developments. For example, Haulotte has developed the Haulotte Activ’Shield bar to reduce the risk of overhead crushing injuries.

Haulotte’s system alerts the operator to potential entrapment situations and is unique in that it features a Safety Gap which can protect the operator from full entrapment and allow them to get out of danger. Following the alert, only reverse/lowering movements are permitted, allowing the operator to get out of trouble without making the situation worse. And, after being triggered, the system is easy to reset and reactivate from the basket which means there is no machine downtime.

Elvin: From a safety perspective, secondary guarding has been one of the biggest developments across the AWP industry during the past 12 to 24 months. There are multiple systems on the market. At Snorkel, we introduced Snorkel Guard as a standard feature on all of our new build boom lifts with working heights above 40 feet, since 1st September 2015, and also made the system available as a retrofit solution for all existing Snorkel booms in the field. 

Snorkel Guard is a simple, mechanical system that features a spring-loaded rail above the upper control panel that cuts out machine operations when compressed, for example, in the case of the operator being involuntarily pushed against the controls.  

RER: What do you expect in the coming year?

Photo courtesy of Genie.

In the coming year, aerial OEMs will be redesigning machines to comply with the updated ANSI/CSA standards and to meet the upcoming recertification requirements. These requirements are fundamentally changing some features of AWPs; for example, platform load control will be required, which means that aerials will be required to continuously check the weight in the platform and disable the functioning if the load is above the platform load limit. 

In addition, drive and certain boom functions will be required to be disabled when the machine is attempting to operate out of the unit’s slope limit. There will also be provisions for indoor-only use aerials, where these particular units are not subject to wind loads during operation. And finally, terminology and training requirements will be modified. These regulatory changes will have a significant impact on the market, and it is up to the OEMs, like Genie, to focus not only on meeting the new standards but also ensuring the customer is educated on the changes. It is our goal that the impacts of the changes are seamless.  

Raymo: We will continue to focus on total cost of ownership, safety and innovation in regards to product development and service. This is in line with where we see our customers moving their focus and needs to as they become more developed in their business models, and as the industry continues to put a focus on safety on the jobsite and environmental sustainability.

Saubot: Haulotte Group is working on many projects; however they remain undisclosed at this time. Innovation is at the heart of our strategy, it is part of our DNA. Haulotte is making the effort to provide equipment that meets the needs of all our customers.

Elvin: One of the key trends that I am seeing in the AWP industry from customers globally is the request for higher platform capacities, particularly with boom lifts. I expect that we will begin to see responses to this request from manufacturers over the next 12 months. 

At Snorkel, we have already introduced our new mid-size telescopic boomlift family with a 600-pound (272kg) capacity platform as standard, and will be continuing to focus on this area within our future product development. We have a large number of new products underway, with many due to launch at ConExpo 2017.

Early: The main thing on the horizon is the imminent new ANSI standard which will change the way manufacturers design and test AWPs. Ultimately of course the same standard will mean that the day-to-day operation of an AWP will alter. For example the introduction of load sensing means AWP capacities are physically controlled.

RER: What are the most compelling developments in the low-level access area? Is this a growing market segment?

Raymo: Low-level access is a growing area. JLG acquired Power Towers Ltd., a leading low level access equipment manufacturer based in Leicester, UK, in 2015 to strengthen our existing portfolio of low level access lifts.

We debutted our new non-powered vertical lifts – the EcoLift 50 and EcoLift 70 – at The Rental Show 2016. These all-new, low-level access lifts are virtually maintenance free, thanks to a patented stored power lift/lower system that requires no batteries, hydraulics, oil, or controls. 

The EcoLift series is a game changer in the rental industry because of its robust and rental-tough design. Extremely easy to operate and environmentally friendly, the lifts provide working heights of 11 and 13 feet respectively by simply turning a handle to move the lift up or down. What’s more, the lifts’ lightweight design makes it easy to push them around a job site. They are rated for 330 pounds, leaving room for materials and tools to boost productivity. And, because there are no hydraulics or motors involved, both of the eco-friendly lifts operate quietly, making them a preferred piece of equipment for finish work on construction sites or even as maintenance access equipment in schools, hospitals, and other institutions. Measuring just under 28 inches in width, the lifts easily roll through standard doorways on caster wheels and maneuver around all areas of a facility. 

Also announced at The Rental Show 2016, a new push-around mast lift — the JLG 830P — uses hydraulics to lift operators to a working height of 14 feet and offers workers a generous 29 by 39-inch platform. Like the EcoLifts, the 830P features a lightweight design that makes it easy for operators to push the lift into position, and heavy-duty, auto-lock wheels on elevation provide a secure base.

All three of these units offer attractive alternatives to ladders and scaffolding. They give workers the ability to use both hands on the job rather than needing to maintain three points of contact.

Photo courtesy of Haulotte.

Low-level access equipment is a significant part of our business; this segment is constantly growing. First, because building maintenance is increasing in many sectors, and second, because there are always emerging markets that are not being served. This gives us a positive outlook for the future.

Elvin: The low-level access market is continuing to grow, driven largely by the replacement of traditional low-level access methods, such as ladders, podiums and scaffolding towers, for safety and productivity benefits.  At Snorkel, we offer both push-around and self-propelled low-level access solutions. However, we are noticing an increase in inquiries for self-propelled units, such as the Snorkel S3010E.

The Snorkel S3010E is a self-propelled version of our 10-foot platform height mini push-around scissor lift.  Fitted with skid steer for a zero inside turning radius, the compact S3010E is an efficient solution for low-level work at height projects that require the operator to travel distances between jobs.  

Snorkel is continuing to invest in product development in the low-level access sector, and unveiled an electric drive version of its popular 12-foot Snorkel TM12 self-propelled telescopic mast lift at Bauma 2016. The TM12E has electric drive that delivers significantly longer duty cycles over the traditional hydraulic drive version. The Snorkel TM12E will be available to order from Q4 2016.

Early: A lot depends on definition here. Arguably it may include up to 19- or 12-foot platform height. In that case the SJ3219 represents the best-selling scissor globally. In addition we have seen success with the SJ12 and SJ16 vertical mast lifts. 

To many it focuses on a new series of even smaller machines that include low weight as one of their characteristics. These certainly have a place, but the key to their success is the degree to which they are robust enough to operate in the rental industry and provide low cost of ownership.

Fearon: The low level access portion of the AWP market appears to be gaining momentum as companies continue to look for alternatives to ladders. We don’t expect a huge shift, but it is a trend we are watching. 

RER: Sum up what your company has done technologically recently that is unique?

Photo courtesy of SkyJack.

Early: The Skyjack boom range boasts a number “firsts”:

EASYDRIVE - A unique boom feature only utilized by Skyjack- the boomlift drive function operates in accordance with the general orientation of the turret’s counterweight over the chassis (i.e. joystick forward=counterweight facing forward). This provides intuitive operation by allowing the unit to move in the general direction of the joystick’s movement.

SKYRISER -  A unique feature found on Skyjack’s articulating boomlift. It ensures that the riser and main pivot point connecting the fly boom to the riser travel in a straight vertical line. Movement in a true vertical manner, without drifting forward or back, reduces the amount of repositioning the operator needs to do in order to stay close to a building façade.

AXLDRIVE - gives positive traction and excellent rough ground “terrain-ability.” This is achieved using an automatic locking differential on the back axle and non-spin and limited slip front differential on the front axle. This means machines can climb grades of up to 30 percent in the case of rough terrain scissorslifts, 45 percent in the case of articulating boomlifts and 50 percent in the case of telescopic boomlifts. This industry leading terrain capability means one can use the Skyjack rough terrain scissorlifts and boomlifts in the most challenging of conditions.

Elvin: We are utilizing both electronic engine and hydraulic controls to optimize the demand of the hydraulic system to a reduced engine output. Essentially we manage the traction circuit high pressure to limit the machines’ drive speed when traversing rough or uneven terrain, making it easier to comply with EPA regulations by installing reduced horsepower engines whilst maintaining optimum machine performance. We are also looking into electric drive and electric supplemental systems to reduce engine requirements and to offset the cost and complexity of future emissions regulations.

Fearon: Genie has continued to innovate, as we have for the last 50 years. The key to success with our technology innovations has been to closely engage with our customers to meet their safety and jobsite needs. For example, we recently introduced an accessory called the Fall Arrest Bar. We worked closely with end users, safety professionals and rental customers to design and manufacture an accessory that allows operators to work outside the platform. This allows working safely on roof tops or around obstacles, allowing the operator to exit the platform and move freely within a set dimension. 

We have also innovated in the hybrid area, launching the Genie Z-60/37FE (fuel-electric) model this year with rough-terrain capabilities. To accomplish this, we extensively designed and tested efficient AC drive motors and reduced weight in the machine, resulting in a powerful rough terrain machine that can also be seamlessly switched to an indoor, emission-free machine. This allows our customers to have flexibility in their fleet mix of equipment, and it results in a versatile, high performance machine for the end user. In addition, the machine is designed to be able to run on drained batteries, and it can bulk charge the batteries in four hours. This feature especially helps with uptime of the machine, allowing excellent job site usage, bringing maximum ROI to rental companies.   

Raymo: In summary, JLG has leveraged technology across the board to improve the overall satisfaction of our customers. We have done this through product developments, but also through some of our services, like training.

Training is incredibly important to our industry. When operators are well trained and fully understand how to operate a machine safely, they help protect themselves and others on the jobsite. Speaking for JLG, we have an equipment simulator we introduced in October 2014. Some key features include: 

  • Powerful learning tool remotely accessible to registered students with any laptop.
  • Simulates operation of the JLG 800S telescopic boom lift and the JLG G10 telehandler, and most recently the 1850SJ telescopic boom lift in a virtual environment that recreates the training center and proving grounds to scale.
  • Offers three training sessions on each piece of equipment, including controls familiarization, and two operating scenarios (beginner level and more challenging tasks).
  • Provides two views: operator’s perspective and a side view.
  • All controls function as they do in the boomlift and telehandler.
  • Map in corner of screen helps with navigation and identifying location of boom lift or telehandler.
  • Features touch screen controls.
  • Decreases the learning curve when operators first enter a lift or telehandler.

We have also expanded our training center and added an all-new proving grounds course, which provides trainees with the opportunity for a hands-on learning experience that teaches driving and operating skills on telehandlers, scissor lifts, and booms in a safe, controlled environment. 

Rear-sensing (detection) systems are also an innovation we are proud of introducing to our customers. This is optional in our newly redesigned JLG telehandlers, and is an industry first. The rearview camera with multipurpose display shows integrated electronic load charts, diagnostics, and analyzer functions. It gives operators extra confidence when backing up their telehandlers. JLG’s rear object detection system alerts operators of rear obstructions.

RER: What is likely to be new at the 60, 80, and 100 foot levels?

Saubot: Whatever the range, our customers wish to have machines that are easy to maintain, and that’s why we have developed a wide range of services and devices like the Haulotte DIAG, a single diagnostic tool that can be used for all Haulotte machines. The Haulotte DIAG is a software program that allows remote access, for maintenance technicians, to troubleshoot all Haulotte equipment with their own devices: PC, laptop, smartphone and tablets.

The Haulotte objective is to assist as many of our customers as possible in diagnosing and troubleshooting Haulotte machines by providing detailed, clear, and rapid information to simplify maintenance.

Elvin: This sector of the market is fairly well developed. Further innovations in this sector will either come from customer feedback, such as the requirement for larger platform capacities, or from product redevelopment by the manufacturers. For example, at Snorkel we have recently launched a brand new line of mid-size telescopic boomlifts, with four models from 40 feet to 66 feet.  

These brand new models incorporate many new features that are a direct result of our understanding of our customer base, especially the rental industry.  This includes a large 600 pound (272kg) capacity tri-entry, quick-disconnect platform that includes a light-duty built-in panel carrier, removable floor paneling, Snorkel Guard secondary guarding, and all function proportional controls.

Fearon: At Genie, we believe productivity will be one of the drivers of future machines, especially at the 60-, 80- and 100-ft heights. Jobsite speed and efficiency are critical to keeping construction and industrial costs controlled – and the use of large machinery is one of the significant construction costs. In addition, accessories that solve specific job site requirements and keep operators safe are extremely important. For example, Genie offers an Operator Protective Alarm and an Operator Protective Structure – both are secondary protective devices that provide additional protection for operators from overhead obstacles. These features are critical for all jobs with work at height. 

Raymo: These heights are primarily the “core” of the fleets, particularly the 60 and 80 foot machines. They have been established in the industry for quite a while now, and many models may still use designs and technologies from 15 or more years ago depending on the OEM. One very likely scenario we’ll continue to see is updating these core models and designs to use more modern designs and technologies. The AWPs will likely still do the same basic tasks of working at height, but we’ll likely see some newer technologies and possibly even some new capabilities to allow customers to access more work areas than ever before.

RER: We have seen tremendous growth in the AWP segment. Still I’m sure there are some industries that are open for growth, and geographic regions where there is ample room for adoption of AWPs. What are some of your thoughts about this?

Photo courtesy of Snorkel.

Globally, the aerial work platform market still presents a lot of opportunity for manufacturers. In mature markets, such as the United States, opportunities can be found in new sectors where AWPs have not traditionally been used, but provide a safer and more productive method of work at height than the methods that have previously been deployed. The development of specific product types, such as low-level access, and large booms, also help to open up new market opportunities for aerials in these markets.

There are also still many international markets that have huge potential for growth, particularly those that currently have limited work-at-height regulations. These markets include China and India. Southeast Asia is a region that is currently growing thanks to increasing regulations, led by Singapore. Global contractors who work in these regions often bring their international health and safety standards which also helps to drive the development of the rental industry and availability of the latest equipment into a region.

Early: I think on a global scale the AWP market has pockets such as Asia and the subcontinent that show great potential. If China successfully develops the rental concept and that in turn includes AWPs then it has a potential equivalent to or greater than North America.

The main focus for Skyjack is to supply the rental industry. Having said that, the rental industry itself will be able to take advantage by looking at industries that can grow in terms of AWP use. One area that will promote this growth is the availability of accessories designed to achieve some of the specific tasks that face those industries. As these come on stream the ‘older practices’ can be replaced with something more efficient.

Fearon: Genie agrees that there is room for the AWP segment to grow, and this is especially true in some regions of the world where AWPs are just becoming commonplace. As with any construction trend, there has to be a business need to change their processes, and AWPs offer greater productivity than many of the other work-at-height solutions (examples: ladders and scaffolding). As with any change, it will take time for operators to gain a level of comfort with the machines. This is why Genie is engaged in these regions of the world on training and educating the construction base in the overall benefits of AWPs, as well as familiarizing them with operating and maintaining AWPs.   

Raymo: There are certainly geographical regions that have plenty of room for growth both from an economic growth perspective and an adoption perspective. With respect to AWP adoption, we see key emerging market growth opportunities in areas like lesser developed regions of Asia and Latin America. In these regions, we still see a significant amount of scaffolding and ladder usage in areas that an AWP could be a better solution. 

Saubot: We, as manufacturers, have wide opportunities for business in many countries in Asia and Africa. These two areas are new markets for our businesses. We have to explain our products and the benefits for users. We have to create the market.

RER: There have been great advances in safety in the aerial industry. What are some concerns in the safety arena?  

Fearon: Genie truly believes that no job or timeline is worth an injury. One of the first areas to focus on to improve jobsite safety is training. Operator awareness of their surroundings and understanding of the value of a moment’s assessment of the environment are critical to site safety. Genie’s training courses, including our Genie Lift Pro Online Operator Training, focus on this, as well as take the operator to the next level of understanding of electrical and physical hazards. 

Added to Genie’s training offerings are standard features that help maintain jobsite safety. These are features such as intuitive control systems, so the motion of the machine is very clear to the operator, easy entry and exit to the machine, which limits trip hazards, and eight standard lanyard attachments in the platform. Genie offers all of these, as well as secondary protective devices such as the fall arrest bar, operator protective alarm and operator protective structure, to add additional layers on protection particularly on certain jobsites.

Raymo: When working at height, safety is always top of mind. That is why at JLG we are continuing to utilize technology to enhance our products, service, and training. Until job sites are accident free, operator safety will be a concern. This not only applies to safety in AWPs, but overall safety on job sites that AWPs are used on. AWPs, the environment and surroundings, and other equipment all interact on a job site, so we can’t just consider each piece of equipment individually. We need to stay focused on a holistic approach to work site safety to get us to accident-free work sites.

Early: I hesitate to call it a concern. A number of organizations have been involved in aspects of safety: construction companies, government bodies, trade associations and manufacturers. To effectively focus these valuable sources of information and experience we need to ensure that efforts are coordinated. Otherwise we may have a series of discrete recommendations that could contradict each other. 

Elvin: The biggest concern within the aerial work platform industry globally is how we ensure that the equipment is only used by competent operators, who have received adequate training for the specific type of lift that they are using, in the specific environment.  

Another concern is the selection of the equipment. It is essential that customers, whether renting or purchasing access equipment, are effectively supported through the process to choose the right AWP for the job by knowledgeable and well trained representatives.  

RER: How would you assess technological advancements in electric units, hybrids and alternative fuels?

Raymo: Hybrid technology continues to evolve in the AWP industry. Some of the first hybrids were introduced in the AWP industry about 20 years ago. JLG’s first look at this market involved testing an electric boom lift hauling a gas-powered generator behind it to charge it. We see different approaches to hybrid systems, whether they are parallel or series hybrids, but we are also seeing developments within them. For example, advances in the underlying electrical technology like moving from DC to AC technology is advancing hybrid performance and efficiencies. In addition, we see regeneration coming into hybrids now and will see more in the future. Overall, electric and hybrids are at a pretty exciting time and still have some room for advancements in this industry.

Saubot: Manufacturers have to build products in accordance with new standards in term of pollution. This means that all of us are trying to find the best way to fit the requirements. It also means that many solutions, equipment, and devices will be launched in the coming year. But today, nobody can claim that they have the absolute best one, because there will be numerous solutions, which will be based on the customers’ requirements, on the applications required, and on the evolution of technologies.

Elvin:  Globally, there is a focus on reduced emissions, which is driving demand for electric, hybrid and alternative fuel types for equipment, and therefore driving investment in technological solutions from manufacturers.  The Tier 4 regulations have also had an effect on this, as contractors may opt for alternative power sources to avoid having to ensure compliance with the latest standards.

Fearon: Advancements are occurring all the time in hybrid machines with both alternative fuels, as well as electric/diesel combinations. The key to success will be achieving the balance of performance, maintenance and repair with acquisition cost. Genie believes the flexibility these machines have to work both indoors and outdoors will continue to grow in the market place as long as the performance of these machines is on par with customers’ expectations/market demands.