Although the majority of lift table installations are stationary (meaning that the lift table is securely attached to the floor or installation surface) there are models of lift tables that are available for use in a portable application. There are 3 categories of portability to select from, fork pockets, semi-portable or fully portable. Stationary installation is the preferred method as attaching the lift securely to the floor accommodates maximum stability. As a result portable lift tables will have reduced edge load ratings compared to the same lift installed stationary.
Fork Pockets: Fork pockets are steel tubes that are welded to either side or underneath the lift table lower frame. The lift table can now be easily picked up by a fork lift truck and transported to various locations within the facility. The alternative fork pocket installation is to weld the full length fork pockets to the underside of the lower lift table frame, this will increase the lift tables closed/low height by 3”. Unless specially designed and stated otherwise, either design of fork pockets are intended to move a fully lowered, empty lift table only.
Semi Portable: A lift table that is equipped with a semi-portability option is designed to be moved from one location to another with no load on the lift table platform.
On one end of the lift table lower frame are 2 load rollers that are positioned just above the floor level when the lift table frame is lying flat on the floor. On the opposite end of the frame a tongue is welded into position and a removable dolly handle is provided. With the dolly handle removed the lift table lower frame lays flat on the floor and the lift table is ready for use.
When it is time to move the empty lift table first the platform must be fully lowered. With the platform fully lowered the removable dolly handle is manually positioned engaging with the tongue that is welded to one end of the lift table frame. The engaged dolly handle lifts that end of the lift table frame clear from the floor transferring the weight onto the 2 load rollers that are positioned on the opposite end of the frame.
Similar to moving a manual pallet truck the lift table is now able to be maneuvered from one position to another. When in position the dolly handle is removed and the frame is lowered to the floor and the lift table is ready for use once again.
Application of this option is not recommended for larger lifts as they will be heavy to move and they will have a very significant turning radius. This option is intended for applications where the required frequency of moving the lift is low.
This link leads to a photograph of a semi-portable lift table, see Page 5 of brochure. https://www.pentalift.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/ProSeries.pdf
Portable: A lift table that is equipped with a fully portable option is designed to be moved from one location to another with a load on the platform. The fully portable option includes a structural sub frame to support the elevated lift table lower frame.
Typically, the sub frame has 2 rigid/fixed casters on one end of the frame and 2 swivel casters on the opposite end of the frame. The casters are available with phenolic, polyurethane or cast iron rollers, common options include a step down floor lock, swivel lock or foot brake for the casters.
Portable lift tables often have an internal/self-contained power unit. In some cases the power unit is physically too big to be internal/self-contained under the lift and the power unit is therefore installed on an optional frame extension.
This option can increase the lowered height of the lift table. If that is a concern the casters can be configured outboard. This link leads to a photograph of a lift table with outboard, low profile casters.
This link leads to a photograph of a portable lift table with the power unit installed on a frame extension.
https://www.pentalift.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Portable-lift-table-rotating-top.pdf
For additional information on any Pentalift product please contact the Pentalift Sales Department.