There’re 2 benefits of vertical goods lifts. Lower-cost alternative to expensive freight or personnel elevators. Vertical goods lifts are safer to operate than forklifts or other methods, reducing the risk of work-related injuries or accidents.

Based on the difference of power units, the vertical goods lift are divided into 2 types, Hydraulically Driven and Mechanically Driven Goods Lift.

Hydraulically Driven

Most goods lift fall into this class because of the overall lower cost to manufacture this type of lifting system.  The principal employed by most VRC manufacturers for this style drive is to use a single acting hydraulic cylinder and multiply its available stroke by means of a multiple cable or chain system. The advantage of this type of system is that it is economical and efficient but the travel height is limited. Another economical method incorporates a cylinder or ram acting directly on the platform to raise and lower the load. The vertical travel is a 1 to 1 ratio of cylinder stroke to travel.

Lowering of the platform is strictly a function of gravity when the holding valve is opened allowing hydraulic fluid to drain back to the reservoir and lowering speed is controlled by a flow control valve.

Hydraulic goods lifts are typically designed for 2 level operations. They are not recommended for applications with intermediate stops. Unless the unit is equipped with a positive stop or levellocking device the hydraulic control system will not provide accurate stopping position repeatability under both loaded and unloaded conditions.

Mechanically Driven

This is the unit of choice for higher travel 2 level applications, 3 or more levels of operation where intermediate stops are required, automated system applications, and high speed or high cycle projects. This system utilizes an electric brake motor with a gear reducer. The carriage is typically raised or lowered by means of a heavy-duty chain(s). Travel is controlled with an electrical limit switch or similar device at each level. Stopping accuracy is normally good in loaded and unloaded conditions.