The difference between wheeled mast vehicles and tracked mast vehicles

The difference between wheeled mast vehicles and tracked mast vehicles

In mast-type aerial work platforms, wheeled and tracked models are the two main types, with the core difference lying in the chassis design and applicable scenarios. Choosing the right one can double the efficiency of aerial work, while choosing the wrong one not only wastes effort but also easily damages the equipment.

1. Chassis and Applicable Ground Surfaces

The chassis of this type of wheeled mast lift is equipped with solid rubber or pneumatic tires and a braking system, specifically designed for flat, hard surfaces. It performs best in places like warehouses, workshops, shopping mall lobbies, office building corridors, and concrete open spaces. However, it is quite demanding on the ground surface; it becomes completely unusable on steps, uneven surfaces, or soft muddy or sandy ground.

The tracked mast vehicle uses a tracked chassis with a toothed tread pattern, providing strong grip and excelling in various complex terrains. It can easily traverse muddy ground, sandy areas, grassy areas, and gravel roads, and can even climb slopes of 15°-25°. It can also successfully overcome small steps and shallow ditches. However, it is not advantageous on flat, paved surfaces, and the tracks are more prone to wear in such conditions.

1. Mobility and Operating Scenarios

The biggest advantage of wheeled mast lifts is their lightweight and flexibility. Most models can be easily pushed by hand, and they have a small turning radius, allowing them to freely access narrow elevator shafts and corridors. They are mostly electrically powered, producing low noise and no pollution, making them particularly suitable for indoor work, such as shopping mall renovations, warehouse inventory management, and office building lighting maintenance. However, their climbing ability is poor, and they are not recommended for slopes exceeding 5°, as they are prone to slipping.

Tracked mast lifts are relatively heavy and require a power system for movement, and their turning flexibility is not as good as wheeled models, but they excel in off-road capability. They come in both electric and diesel versions; the diesel version offers more power and a longer operating time, making it suitable for use on remote outdoor construction sites. For tasks requiring operation in complex terrain, such as pruning trees in gardens, maintaining mining equipment, and outdoor construction, choosing a tracked mast lift is definitely the right decision. Additionally, its load capacity is stronger than wheeled models, allowing it to carry more tools and materials, meeting the demands of outdoor heavy-duty applications.

1. Cost and Maintenance: Cost-effectiveness and durability

Wheeled mast lifts have lower purchase costs and offer better value for money, and their maintenance is very simple. Routine maintenance only requires periodically checking the brakes on the wheels for responsiveness and ensuring the battery of electric models is sufficiently charged, without requiring significant maintenance expenses.

Tracked mast vehicles are significantly more expensive than wheeled ones, and their maintenance costs are also higher. The tracks are wear-prone parts, and the wear rate increases, especially when driven on hard surfaces for extended periods. Replacing the tracks represents a considerable expense.

1. Key considerations for using extension devices

1. Avoid dragging wheeled mast trucks on concrete surfaces for extended periods, as this can easily wear down the wheels.  When moving the truck, push and lower it gently.

2. After operating tracked mast trucks on hardened surfaces, promptly clean any gravel and dirt from the tracks to prevent wear and tear on the chassis and tracks.

3. Regardless of whether it's a wheeled or tracked mast truck, always check for mast deformation, ensure the guardrails are secure, and verify that the emergency lowering button is functional before operation. Safety is always the top priority.Vehicle rolling is mainly due to excessive brake clearance or worn brake pads. The solution is to adjust the clearance or replace the brake pads.  Creeping forward is mainly due to a faulty outrigger sensor or hydraulic leakage. The solution is to check and replace the sensor, and identify and repair any leaks in the hydraulic lines.

Conclusion

There's no absolute good or bad when it comes to wheeled and tracked mast lifts; it's all about suitability. The core principle is to choose a wheeled lift for indoor use and a tracked lift for complex outdoor terrain. By combining this with considerations of the work environment and budget, you can accurately select the most suitable and efficient aerial work platform.