Lift Table FAQ

Raised height is the combination, or sum, of the low height and lift, which indicates the overall distance from the bottom of the frame to the top of the lift table platform in the fully raised position.

A combination of frame mounted rollers and removable dolly handle that permit an unloaded and retracted lift table to be moved without use of fork lift or overhead crane when not in use.

A velocity fuse is a hydraulic valve that prevents free-fall if the hydraulic hose is severed. Note: The fuse may not lock if the lift table load is light in relation to its overall capacity.

To increase the lift speed, a larger volume hydraulic pump and higher horsepower motor assembly (powerpack) is required. The larger the hydraulic pump and the higher horsepower motor assembly will increase the volume of hydraulic oil being pumped to the cylinders, thereby increasing the lift speed.

rating, end/side axle load – The maximum amount of single axle load (in the case of rolling loads) which can be applied to the loading edge of the platform (end or side) when the lift is in any raised position. This rating considers: 1) that some amount of deflection will occur during load transfer, 2) the moving and impact forces imposed by the load, 3) that this is a temporary condition during load transfer only, and 4) that the scissors lift platform is static and non-moving. rating, end/side edge load - The maximum amount of static load that can be applied to the edge of the platform (end or side) when the lift is in any raised position. This rating considers: 1) that some amount of deflection will occur during load transfer, 2) that this is a temporary condition during load transfer only, and 3) that the scissors lift platform is static and non-moving.

Pentalift lift tables can be manufactured to be used as personnel work platforms. Based upon the application, components such as guardrails (required when riders are more than 48” above grade) gates, anti-slip platform, etc may be incorporated into the design. Pentalift dock lifts permit a rider to accompany material during load transfer. These lifts are not designed for the exclusive purpose of transporting riders between fixed elevations or landings. Pentalift lifts do not meet the elevator or handicap lift requirements and require review, modification and approval by an appropriately authorized party for use of this nature.

Yes. Pentalift has extensive experience engineering and manufacturing custom lift tables and dock lifts to suit a wide range of industries and applications, many models are available as portable. In addition to lifts Pentalift offers custom tilters, rotators, and work positioners.

The No-Low design: When the lift table is in the fully lowered position, the vertical distance from the top surface of the lift table platform to the grade can be 3/8”, ½”, ¾”. Usage: The No-Low can be used in a traffic situation that is a drive through or a drive on and drive off. Optional: On a drive through application, a mezzanine lip is available.

Pneumatic lift tables are often used in applications with an existing, readily available air supply. They are also used in applications where standard electrical equipment is a concern such as paint shops and other hazardous areas. They are also used in areas where onerous and costly electrical specifications apply.  

Hydraulic lift tables provide the widest range of selection, operation and performance available. Hydraulic lift tables offer precise positioning of almost any weight with a wide range of platform sizes and vertical travel available. They are the most common configuration of lift table.

A tandem design lift table incorporates two scissor leg sets installed “end to end” with a common platform and frame assembly. The adjacent scissor legs of the tandem design provide additional stability of the extended platform to accommodate longer loads.  

A double scissor lift table has two scissor leg sets “stacked” one on top of each other. This design provides approximately double the vertical lift of a single scissor lift table with the equivalent length frame.

A self-levelling lift table (Pentaloader) automatically adjusts in height as product is either added or removed. A self-levelling table maintains the loading level at the ergonomically correct position for the operator during the loading/off loading process. This type of device does not require an external power source.  

Pentalift’s standard finish is enamel paint, which is suitable for typical indoor / outdoor industrial applications.  Custom finishes are available depending on specific application requirements, including:  high solids epoxy; food grade epoxy; hot dip galvanizing; stainless steel; etc.  Consult a Pentalift Sales Representative for more information.  

If a lift table is installed into a pre-formed pit, a specific design for personnel protection must be provided. The two most common methods to provide this protection are bevelled toe guards or toe sensor bars (when contacted, stops the downward descent of the platform assembly). Bevelled toe guards are made of steel and slant inward at an angle approximately 30 degrees from vertical. The angle of the toe guard forces a toe or other item just hanging over the edge of the pit, out of the way.  

Many Pentalift lift tables have been successfully integrated into various operating systems. Our engineering department will assist in designing and providing the necessary sensors, PLC’s, connections etc. required integrating a complete operating system.  

All operators and maintenance personnel must know the equipment features and operations as outlined in the owners’ manual provided.

Pentalift pre-engineered (standard price list) lift tables are available with capacities ranging from 500 lbs. to 40,000 lbs. Pentalift also offers a high capacity series of lift tables with capacities ranging up to 120,000 lbs. Higher capacities are available to suit a wide range of applications.

Approval drawings are generally required for custom lifts. These drawings are prepared and submitted to insure that Pentalift fully understand the requirements of your application and to confirm the design content. They also allow the customer the oppourtunity to understand the proposed configuration of the equipment. Once the approval drawings have been reviewed, signed and returned the equipment is scheduled into production.