pitless scissor lifts

Avcon Forklifts, a leading manufacturer of material handling equipment, offers ergonomic solutions through its wide range of scissor lifts. These lifts are designed to lift people and heavy equipment to heights through a vertically moving platform.  

To further simplify operations, reduce labor costs, ease installation, and customize operations, Avcon Forklift Systems also offers a range of pitless scissor lifts designed to lift equipment without the need to construct a pit or hole in the floor. 

What are Pit Less Scissor Lifts?

Pit-less scissor lifts do not require a pit or recessed area in the floor for installation and operation. These lifts are mounted directly on top of the existing floor surface. 

The lift mechanism will consist of ‘scissors’ folding supports. The scissor folding supports will ‘extend and contract’ vertically as they raise and lower the scissor lift platform. Since pitless scissor lifts do not require an excavation, they are designed to be fit and function for above-floor-level installations, and they are useful for locations or installations where it is impractical or impossible to dig a pit.

The lift mechanism has a platform raised as hydraulic or electric drive systems push the scissor arms apart, which produce vertical motion and elevation of the platform. Generally, the body or structure of the lift mechanisms is designed to support various load capacities while remaining stable. 

Features of Pit Less Scissor Lifts

Pit-less scissor lifts come with several key features that make them practical and reliable for lifting tasks without needing a pit in the floor.

– Custom platform sizes: 

The platform where you stand or place materials can be specially made to fit your specific needs and the space you have. This makes the lift adaptable to different working environments.

– Load capacity: 

These lifts can safely move heavy loads, generally, up to 1000 kilograms (one ton).

– Lifting height: 

In several models of scissor lifts, the height they can raise the platform to is about 4 meters, but they can be built to specific heights to fit each application. 

– Smooth movement between floors: 

Some models have a control system, so the lift starts and stops smoothly while traveling between floors like an elevator, therefore making it easy and precise when you want to stop at a specific height to load or unload. 

– Single or multiple scissor designs: 

In order to achieve the height and stability needed, the lift can have either one or many sets of scissor arms arranged together.

– Finished sturdy build:

The lift is a sturdy build and designed to distribute the load evenly, all of which contribute to the strength and safety of the lift.

 – Safety mechanisms: 

They have systems in place to prevent a sudden drop if a hydraulic hose were to fail (one is a failure mode of the system, the other is more of a redundancy if points are missed), relieve valving systems to prevent overloading, and self-lubricating components to minimize wear.

– No machine room needed: 

The operation system (like the power pack) can be placed away from the lift and connected with flexible hoses, so you don’t need extra space above or around the lift.

– Floor-mounted design: 

Because they are installed directly on the existing surface, they do not require a pit underneath them, and they are quicker installations, and easier installations for the end users, especially in areas with limited access where digging a pit might be part of the challenge.

Benefits of Using Pit-Less Scissor Lifts in Warehouses

Pit-less scissor lifts also offer a lot of real advantages that really make them a good option for any lifting and material handling applications.

– No need for a pit: 

Because these lifts are mounted directly on the floor, as opposed to requiring a pit (excavation), they save you the time, labor, and expense of excavation work. This also means less disruption to your building structure and foundation.

– Easy installation: 

Without the requirement of below-floor construction, Lifts without a pit can be installed more easily and more flexibly than a conventional lifting device being considered in a building or new site.

– Space-saving: 

Since they are a pit-less lifting device, they will allow you to use your basement or floor space more effectively. You don’t lose valuable area to a sunken lift mechanism underneath the platform.

– Cost-effective: 

Not having a pit saves on construction and maintenance costs. There are typically extra waterproofing and cleaning that must be included to prevent water and other debris from building up at the pit, which pit-less lifts do not contact. 

– Flexible Positioning: 

Pitless scissor lifts can be put into environments where creating a pit is unrealistic or impossible, such as older buildings, buildings on concrete, or buildings where underground utilities may exist. 

– Simpler maintenance: 

Having the mechanical and hydraulic components above the floor makes maintenance and inspection cheaper and more accessible.

– Safe operation: 

There are safety features in these lifts that will keep the lift from falling suddenly and protect against overloads, which implies the lifts are safe for lifting people and materials. 

– Flexible power system: 

The power pack driving the lift can be placed away from the platform and connected with flexible hoses, so the lift doesn’t require a dedicated machine room nearby.

– Smooth Movement: 

Many models deliver controlled, smooth starting and stopping when moving between levels and improve user comfort and maneuverability.

Pit-less scissor lifts are a versatile and reliable form of lift because they unite the efficiencies of scissor lifts while eliminating the need for floor recesses, allowing for a multi-dimensional lift for almost all industries or styles of buildings.

Installation and Maintenance of a Pit-Less Scissor Lift

Installation of a Pit-less Scissor Lift:

– Site Preparation: 

The installation begins with the selection of a level, stable concrete floor, ideally with a minimum slab thickness of around 200mm (8 inches) or more. The floor must support the weight of the fully engaged lift without risk to life or injury.

– Positioning the Lift: 

The scissor lift arrives, from the factory, installed (or only temporarily) on skids or pallets; utilizing slings or lifting equipment, carefully remove all packaging and remove the lift from the skid without damaging the frame or componentry. Next, position the lift base to the floor in its intended location.

– Leveling and Alignment: 

Ensure that the lift is level and aligned. Use solid shims (thin wedges) under the base frame as needed to correct any discrepancies. Ensure that there is clearance (usually 0.5 to 1 inch) all the way around the platform edges to allow movement.

– Anchoring: 

Using a carbide-tip drill with the drill bit size (anchor bolts) that matches where the lift’s anchor bolts are located (drill the remaining holes). Remove dust and debris, and insert the nut, washer, and anchor bolt. Tighten down to get the lift base firmly anchored to the floor. This way the lift does not move while in operation and provides a solid position.

– Hydraulics and Electrical Connections: 

When connecting hydraulic hoses, electrical cables, control wiring, and any other lines as needed, follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully. Ensure the connections are tight, do not leak, and are working properly.

– Filling the Hydraulic Fluid: 

Fill the hydraulic reservoir with the manufacturer’s recommended hydraulic oil up to the proper level, making sure you have enough for the proper operation of the lift and the safety of the operator.

– Bleeding the Hydraulic System: 

In order to bleed out the air from the hydraulic lines and to ensure the mechanism will move smoothly, raise and lower the platform several times, again following the instructions in the manufacturer’s manuals. 

– Safety Checks and Testing: 

After assembly is complete, perform a complete inspection of all components – bolts, hydraulics, electrical, and safety device functions. Testing the up and down operation of the lift at various heights will ensure the lift operator can move safely and that the lift itself operates smoothly in all directions. Be sure emergency stops and safety locks are working.

Maintenance of a Pit-less Scissor Lift:

– Ongoing Cleaning: 

It is imperative to keep the lift and its components clean of dust, dirt, and other debris as much as possible. The less dirt transfer in the system, the less chance there is for damage, and keeping dust and dirt out helps maintain good hydraulic operation and any other moving parts in good working condition. 

– Lubrication: 

Lubricate pivot points, pins, and moving parts on a recommended frequency to decrease wear and promote movement using the recommended lubrication.

– Hydraulic Fluids Check: 

It is a good practice to check the hydraulic oil level and the quality of the fluids regularly. As recommended by the manufacturer, check and fill or change fluids to avoid contamination or degrade fluids that may damage your hydraulic system.

– Safety Device Checks: 

Check safety valves, pressure release units, emergency stop buttons, and locks regularly to verify if the safety devices are functioning properly to assist in safety operations.

– Bolts and Structure Check: 

Check bolts, fasteners, and tighten any that have come loose. Check for structural integrity of scissor arms, platform for wear, cracks, or any indication of corrosion.

– Electrical System Check: 

Check for damaged electrical connections, any wiring insulation, and loose contacts in the control console.

– Scheduled Professional Service: 

Make sure a qualified technician provides service to the lift on the recommended frequency for monitoring, preventive maintenance, worn part replacement, etc.

By taking these steps, we can be assured the pit-less scissor lift is installed correctly, functions properly, and has longevity while reducing the possibility of accidents or a breakdown.

Applications of Pit Less Scissor Lifts in Different Industries

Pit-less scissor lifts are an adaptable material handling source accepted in a variety of industries because they require no pit due to their floor-mounted design; they can be installed in a wider variety of spaces with additional flexibility. They offer many advantages for vertical lifting and fostering transfer solutions where a pit would be impractical or too costly, efficient lifting and transfer solutions.

– Manufacturing Industry:

Pit-less scissor lifts are tailored to the needs of manufacturing plants where heavy parts, machines, or semi-finished goods may need to be lifted between different grade elevations. Scissor lifts function in assembly lines, in machine and equipment maintenance & repair, and in related production processes to support safe and stable platform access & handling with the items being handled and without major floor modifications. 

– Warehousing and Logistics:

In warehouses and distribution centers, these scissor lifts function in stock management, loading and unloading goods, and transferring pallets to different floor elevations. Keeping or installing pit-less lifts on existing floors allows a timely and safe transfer of goods for fast use in operating warehouses that have made short-term use of equipment and saved on materials transfer time and costs per load, and cost to restore the normal working condition of the transfer or surface in question. 

– Automotive Industry:

Automotive repair shops and assembly lines utilize pit-less scissor lifts to perform vehicle servicing, part handling, and assembly tasks. Their surface-mounted configuration and optional ramps provide the ability to operate in limited or pre-existing site conditions where a pit isn’t a possibility, while they can support various load capacities, up to 1000 kg, and lift heights, typically up to 4 meters, suitable for many garage or underslung applications.

– Pharmaceutical and Food Processing Units:

These sectors require lifting solutions that are hygienic, easy to clean, and reliable to safely transfer materials and equipment. The robust construction and flexibility of pit-less scissor lifts provide highly sanitary platforms, which can assist in transferring goods from one level to another, while adhering to strict standards of cleanliness expected in these industries. 

– Textile and Rubber Industries:

These sectors use pit-less scissor lifts to handle heavy rolls of fabric or rubber sheets and to facilitate production floor tasks requiring variable elevation. The lifts support ergonomic material handling and improve safety when moving bulky items without the complication of pit installation.

– E-commerce and FMCG Industries:

High turnover in e-commerce order fulfillment centers, along with fast turnover in FMCG warehouses and retail, can leverage pit-less scissors lifts with quick lifting moves to raise parcels or stock goods to new levels in safety. Because pit-less scissor lifts can be installed above the floor and without the need for a floor recess or pit, these products can be integrated quickly and efficiently into existing facilities to help meet growing logistics demands from increased production outputs.

– Construction and Maintenance:

In construction sites and worksites, pit-less scissor lifts provide temporary mobile access solutions for lifting people or material. Since pit-less scissor lifts can only be installed above the floor level, they can be quickly erected and installed in locations where the ground floor is being occupied or when there have been no provisions for groundwork. With robust safety features available, pit-less scissor lifts can be utilized safely on rough terrain and indoors.

– Government and Institutional Facilities:

Hospitals, public offices, and libraries typically have a need for a lifting solution that does not alter the structure of the building. Pit-less scissor lifts provide an effective and efficient way to go vertical to access or move service equipment or materials. They provide the ability to suitably traverse older or heritage buildings with minimal structural changes.

In general, pit-less scissor lifts can provide a cost-effective option for a singular approach in vertical lifting and material handling that has different applications in different sectors, while completely avoiding the time and cost of building a pit. They can also be produced to any dimension, load carrying capacity, and safety technology specifications you require, so they can have utility in manufacturing, warehousing, automotive, pharmaceutical, textiles, construction, and institutional applications.

Difference between Pit-Mounted Scissor Lift and Pit-Less Scissor Lift 

Pit Mounted Scissor Lift is installed inside a pitch or a hole in the ground so when not in use it stays in level with the floor when not in use. 

Here is the difference between pit-mounted scissor lifts and pitless scissor lifts:

– Installation:

Pit-mounted scissor lifts require digging a pit into the floor so the platform sits flush with the surface when lowered, involving excavation and floor modification. In contrast, pit-less scissor lifts are installed directly on the existing floor, needing no pit or major floor changes.

– Floor Space Usage:

Pit-mounted lifts save floor space by being flush with the floor, making the area neat and unobstructed. Pit-less lifts have their base sitting above the floor, which occupies some floor space but allows placement where pits cannot be made.

– Load Capacity:

The pit-mounted lift usually can take larger loads, usually from 1000 kg to 5000 kg or heavier, suited towards heavy industrial work. Pit-less lifts usually manage moderate loads, typically up to 1000 kg, depending on the model.

– Height of Lift

The pit-mounted lift can reach greater heights, often from 10 meters and u,p which is better suited for multi-level facilities. Pit-less lifts usually manage moderate heights of 4 or 5 meters, which can be enough for many warehouse or service applications.

– Stability and Safety:

Pit-mounted lifts benefit from their installed recessed and fixed position. Thus, they better resist tipping, while having many safety systems – overload, emergency stop, etc. Whereas pit-less lifts — not requiring a pit– can be stable, rely on providing solid framing to the floor, and include a system of safety features; above-floor means the lift’s stability may be more dependent on correct framing to the floor, which allows movement.

– Accessibility and Maintenance:

Pit-mounted lifts frequently have the hydraulic and mechanical components contained within the pit area, which provides the advantage of less maintenance while providing more complex access. Pit-less lifts have the pump and all other components accessible above floor level, which makes inspection, cleaning, and service easier. 

– Cost and Time for Installation:

Pit-mounted lifts come with higher installation costs and longer setup times due to pit excavation, civil works, and floor repairs. Pit-less lifts are faster and cheaper to install since no excavation is required.

– Application Suitability

Heavy manufacturing, automotive service shops, and warehouses with frequent high traffic areas mostly use pit-mounted lifts as the conditions require a physically flush floor, and/or high load amounts. Pit-less lifts work well in warehouses, light manufacturing, automotive service areas, and where pits are impractical and/or too costly to build.

Why choose Avcon Systems for Pitless Scissor Forklifts in your warehouse?

Selecting Avcon Systems for pitless scissor forklifts in your warehouse is to choose a reliable, efficient, and easy-to-use vertical lift application specifically designed to fulfill the modern material handling needs without the overhead costs of installing a costly pit.

– No Pit Installation Required: 

Avcon’s pitless scissor lifts are designed for floor-mounted installation directly on your existing warehouse floor. This saves you from costly pit construction and long civil works, and speeds up setup with less downtime.

– Made to Suit Your Needs: 

Avcon offers different lift heights and platform sizes customized to your warehouse space and material handling requirements. A standard Avcon lift has load capacities usually up to 1000 kg and heights up to 4 meters, plus, for all light and medium-duty applications. 

– Smooth Floor Operation: 

Our lifts utilize modern inching plus auto mode control, which simply provides smooth fluid starts and stops at your floor level, very similar to an elevator system. You can count on your loads to deliver accurate positioning and a safer loading and unloading application.

– Robust and Safe Design: 

At Avcon Systems, we prioritize safety with features like failsafe hose burst technology to prevent free falls, pressure release valves guarding against overload, and sturdy construction that evenly distributes loads, all tested to meet strict safety standards.

– No Need for a Machine Room:

A hydraulic power pack can be installed away from the lift using flexible hoses, freeing you from having to create dedicated machine rooms nearby. This means that you can have more flexibility with your warehouse design and layout, and ultimately effective use of space.

– Can be used in different industries: 

Avcon’s pitless lift is an excellent solution for warehousing and logistics, but is also great for most applications across many industries, including manufacturing, automotive services, pharmaceutical, e-commerce, and food processing, proving versatile enough for many environments and applications without changing your structure.

– Easy Maintenance and Support: 

With all components above the floor level, maintenance tasks are easier and quicker, and with minimal operational downtime. You can also be confident that Avcon provides you with the necessary support and assistance from installation to operation.

– Efficiency and Cost Savings: 

Lower installation costs, fewer downtimes, and energy-efficient hydraulic power mean lower total costs. Avcon’s lifts were engineered not just for performance, but to provide you with an efficient system that will help you be productive in your warehouse.

When you select Avcon Systems, you are selecting a proven, high-quality, pitless scissor forklift solution that is built for performance, safety, and ease of use, allowing your warehouse to operate smoothly without interruptions and maximized throughput.