History and Development of AWP Trucks
AWP trucks, also known as bucket trucks or aerial lifts, were first developed in the 1960s to provide safe, efficient access to elevated work areas. Early models used telescoping booms or articulating arms to lift workers and equipment to heights of 30-40 feet. As needs evolved, so did AWP truck designs. By the 1970s, truck manufacturers introduced increased lift capabilities up to 60 feet. Fiberglass replacement booms allowed for lighter weight and greater range of motion. Hydraulic controls provided smoother, precision lifting and positioning of platforms.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, aerial lifts saw expanded application across various industries like construction, facilities maintenance, utilities work and more. Truck designs continued advancing with increased payload capacities, enhanced safety features and computerized controls for precision operation even at maximum heights. Today's aerial work platforms can reach well over 100 feet, have expanded outrigger bases for stability and feature full cab enclosures with climate control for operator comfort.
Types of AWP Trucks
There are several types of aerial work platforms differentiated by boom/aerial device design and intended applications:
- Straight Boom Lifts: Ideal for general construction and maintenance, these units have a fixed length boom arm for lifts ranging 60-100 feet. Simple and cost-effective.
- Articulating Boom Lifts: With a jointed or folding boom system, they offer excellent maneuverability and outreach while elevated. Commonly used in construction, utilities, and facilities work up to 120 feet.
- Scissor Lifts: Known for compactness and indoor accessibility. Ideal for low-rise applications under 40 feet, for tasks like maintenance, painting, and installation work.
- Vertical Lifts: Hydraulic telescoping booms lift platforms straight up and down, suited for tasks like rooftop equipment servicing, exterior building repairs over 100 feet high.
- Trailer Mounted Lifts: Towable units provide portable lifts up to 70 feet for flexibility across job sites. Simple, cost-effective solution.
Key Safety Features of Modern AWP Trucks
With working heights now extending over 100 feet, safety is a top priority in AWP design and operation. Today's aerial lifts are equipped with:
- Outrigger leveling sensors that prevent operation until the truck is properly stabilized on level ground. Outriggers also prevent tipping while elevated.
- Non-conductive, hydraulic and composite booms that reduce risk of electrocution around power lines.
- Fall protection rails, independent platforms with restraint systems, and windows/glass that meet impact testing standards.
- Backup alarm, emergency lowering system for safe platform descent even during power outages.
- Access prevention devices that immobilize truck functions if safety rules are violated.
- 360-degree flashing beacons, illuminated signage to enhance visibility and warning in low light conditions.
- Multiple cameras providing full visibility around elevated work areas on control system monitors.
- Telematics and computer diagnostics to monitor equipment usage, maintenance needs, fault detection from the ground.
Expanding Applications and Value of Aerial Work Platforms
Because of their unmatched lifting ability, Aerial Work Platforms have become indispensable equipment across many industries and job functions:
Construction - Essential for erecting structures, installing siding/drywall/insulation, hanging scaffolding, painting and more at heights common on today's job sites. With lifts now exceeding 120 feet, AWPs provide safe, productive access to entire building faces and rooftops.
Utilities - Linemen rely on bucket trucks for installation, replacement and repair of power lines, cable networks and telecom equipment high in the air. Aerial devices eliminate the need for risky ladder work.
Infrastructure Maintenance - Highway/bridge inspectors, municipal crews, traffic signal technicians all use aerial lifts for close-up assessments and repairs well above ground level. Lifts provide a mobile lift capacity not possible with ladders or manlifts.
Facilities Maintenance - Contractors and in-house teams use AWPs for routine tasks like HVAC equipment servicing, lighting fixture replacement, high-rise window washing or building exterior washing at hospitals, factories, campuses and more. Lifts access what traditional lifts and ladders cannot reach.
Tree Services - Arborists depend on aerial lifts to safely perform tree trimming, removal and planting higher in canopies than was previously possible. Aerial solutions replace risky climbing techniques.
Oil/Gas Industries - Inspection and maintenance of pipeline infrastructure, drilling rigs and above-ground facilities now relies extensively on AWPs for access to heights that would otherwise require rope access or elevated work platforms.
With maximum platform heights now above 120 feet and growing, they have become essential equipment across industries where safe, efficient access to elevated work areas is required. Aerial work platform deliver functionality simply not possible with ladders, manlifts or other ground-based solutions alone. This has both enhanced workplace safety as well as boosted productivity for any job requiring access above standard reach. Aerial work platforms are truly revolutionizing how industries at heights get critical work done.
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About Author:
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemical and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.
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