Snorkel scissors cut working times

16 September 2022

A recurring theme in the alternative technology debate is that machines using new energy sources aren’t always just direct replacements for their conventional alternatives: in many cases they can enable work to be done more effectively. 

“We’re hearing this from hirers and end users who take machines like our lithium battery scissor lifts, such as the S3970RTE, compared to traditional models with lead acid batteries that operate more slowly as they discharge,” says Scott McCall, business development manager and net zero specialist with Snorkel Europe. 

“Whether a lithium-ion battery has, say, 100 per cent or 20 per cent of charge, it will still deliver the same performance – like a diesel or petrol car with a full or nearly empty tank. So you keep working at the same rate, maintaining efficiency, which can be particularly important on sites with rough terrain. 

“I spoke recently to a contractor who specialises in installing LED lighting at facilities like warehouses and showrooms. He can use the electric machine both indoors and outdoors, unlike diesel equivalents, and he reckons that he is gaining two extra hours’ battery life with the lithium-ion scissor.

“As a result, a five-week job is taking only four. Moreover, there are overall reductions in the miles travelled visiting the site, hotel costs for operatives working away from home and other overheads. 

“And using one machine instead of two means that operators don’t have to familiarise themselves with two different models.” 

That’s a lot of pluses – and another reason why it achieves a lower overall carbon footprint is because the number of machine deliveries and collections is reduced.