Codi issues lifting equipment advice
When specifying lifts, a number of factors must be considered, says supplier Codi International – including vehicle type, maximum vehicle weight, vehicle dimensions, load distribution and the type of work being done.
It warns against under-specifying new equipment.
“Lifts should easily be able to lift the expected range of vehicles,” Codi advised.
“Vehicles are generally getting longer and heavier. Vehicle technology is changing rapidly with move towards zero emissions, this may lead to completely different demands on a lift; a higher capacity model will have more scope to adapt to future changes.”
When looking at the costs of a lift, price isn’t everything, the firm contends.
“The initial purchase price of electro-mechanical lifts is usually lower than that of hydraulic models. However hydraulic lifts have much lower power consumption and far lower maintenance costs and over time, can often work out more cost efficient. A good quality well maintained lift is an investment that will give many years of trouble-free service.”
It is best to seek the advice of garage equipment professionals such as Codi International Ltd or other Garage Equipment Association members, says the firm, who will be able to advise on the most suitable type of lift, as well as maintenance and legal requirements.
“Mobile column lifts are possibly the most versatile of all vehicle lifts; they lift the vehicle by its wheels so there is no problem with identifying suitable lifting points,” the firm continued.
“Codi offers several models, all of which can be configured to lift in multiples of two to eight and more in some cases. Wireless hydraulic mobile provide the ultimate in flexibility; they only require a suitable level surface on which to operate.”
Codis offer wireless mobile columns from Gray Manufacturing Inc. Hydraulic in operation, they are completely wireless and only require periodic charging. They are also waterproof.
“They have no trailing cables to damage, replace or act as a trip hazard,” continued Codi.
“This means they can be used anywhere that there is a large enough flat surface, e.g. workshop floor, outside vehicle park, even in a washbay. There is no need for installation, new electrical supplies, groundworks etc. The mobile columns are available with capacities up to 8,500kg per column and can be used in multiples of two, four, six or eight.”
Hydraulic inground lifts such as those offered by German manufacturer Fuchs Hydraulik GmbH offer an alternative to conventional platform lifts, mobile columns and pits, Codi adds. The lifts comprise two or more hydraulic rams mounted on rails in a trough in the workshop floor. Vehicles are raised by lifting the vehicle’s axles.
“The rams are moved by a powered adjuster which makes positioning very quick,” said the company.
“The trough is fitted with an automatic moveable cover which ensures that it is covered at all times. Lifts are available in load capacities from 16 – 60 tonnes.
“The lifts allow the wheels to be removed without the need for axle stands, jacks or other equipment. The height of the vehicle can be changed as required when being worked on; access to the underside of the vehicle is unhindered.”
Said Codi: “The lifts take up little space in the workshop and when lowered allow the floor to be used for other activities.
“The lifts come in various versions and are designed to be installed either in newly constructed troughs or into existing work pits. Washbay and spraybooth versions are available which incorporate the necessary protection and safety features to operate in these extreme environments.”
