Choosing the right lift is a crucial decision for any mechanical workshop. It's the core piece of equipment in the operations department, essential for ensuring efficiency, safety, and quality of work. In this guide, we analyze the essential technical criteria for identifying the model best suited to your professional needs.
Why choosing a lifting bridge is so important
The lifting bridge directly affects:
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operator and vehicle safety
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the speed of the processes
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the type of interventions that the workshop can offer
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the overall profitability of the business
An unsuitable lift can create limitations, delays, and potential risks. Choosing the right one means optimizing time and resources in the long run.
The main types of lifting bridges
1. Two-post lifting bridge
It is the most widespread model in general workshops.
Advantages
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ideal for most mechanical interventions
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excellent quality/price ratio
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full access to the sides of the vehicle
To be considered
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requires anchoring to the floor
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requires a minimum thickness of the insole
2. Scissor lift
Mainly used for tire shops, body shops and quick jobs.
Advantages
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small footprint
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rapid ascent/descent
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ideal for setups, tires and quick diagnoses
To be considered
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less full access than 2 columns
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shorter lifting stroke (depends on the model)
3. Four-column bridge
The ideal choice for long-term work, diagnostics and alignments.
Advantages
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extreme stability
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provision for steering plates and play tester
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Great for SUVs and heavy duty vehicles
To be considered
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greater bulk
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higher cost than other solutions
Technical features to be carefully evaluated
Nominal flow rate
The standard load capacity for passenger cars is 3.0–4.0 tons.
For SUVs and light commercial vehicles, load capacities of 4.0–5.5 tonnes are recommended.
Lifting height and stroke
The higher the stroke, the more ergonomically the operator works.
Ideal value: 1,900–2,000 mm .
Usable width and distance between columns
It is used to work without obstacles even on wider vehicles.
Always check:
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external width
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usable space between columns
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total space occupied in the workshop
Telescopic arms and gripping points
Safety essentials.
Evaluate:
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number of arm stages
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ease of positioning
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compatibility with low-slung vehicles and SUVs
Engine and energy consumption
Efficient and reliable engines with optimized fuel consumption are preferable.
Check:
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engine power (kW)
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power supply (single-phase or three-phase)
Security systems
A professional bridge must include:
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parachute valve
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automatic mechanical blocks
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hydraulic or rope synchronization
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anti-crushing devices
Installation and flooring
Assembly requires:
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adequate concrete slab
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planar surfaces
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compliant electrical system
To avoid mistakes, professional installation is always recommended.
How to choose the right model for your workshop
1. Analyze the predominant type of work
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General mechanical workshop → two columns
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Tire dealer or quick service → scissors
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Diagnostics, setups, heavy vehicles → four columns
2. Evaluate the available space
Drawing the workshop floor plan allows you to check:
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encumbrances
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safety distances
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accesses
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maneuvering areas
3. Consider the long-term budget
A lifting bridge is a multi-year investment.
Better to choose:
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sturdy materials
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trusted brands
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guaranteed assistance and spare parts
4. Don't neglect assistance and warranty
The availability of spare parts and rapid assistance are essential to avoid machine downtime and loss of productivity.
Conclusion
Choosing the most suitable lift depends on a combination of technical, operational, and logistical factors. By carefully evaluating the capacity, type, safety, and needs of the workshop, it's possible to identify an efficient and long-lasting solution.
For more information or to receive personalized advice, you can contact us through the dedicated section of the website. We will be happy to help you choose the solution best suited to your professional needs.
