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Bucket trucks, commonly used in telecommunication, utility, forestry, and construction industries, are indispensable vehicles that allow workers to reach elevated spaces with ease. These versatile heavy-duty vehicles are very effective when it comes to reaching hard-to-reach spaces that would be unsafe to get to using a scissor lift or a ladder.

Bucket trucks are classified by OSHA as boom trucks are offer maximized maneuverability that makes them an ideal choice for:

• Line servicing for utilities and telecom
• Sign maintenance
• Landscaping
• Tree care

If you’re using a bucket truck for your work operations in Texas, let us help you understand the engineering marvels of this vehicle! Read on to learn more about the intricate design elements of these trucks and what makes them an excellent choice across various industries.

What Are Bucket Trucks?

At their core, bucket trucks are a utility vehicle that has a man-carrying bucket and a hydraulic pole attached to them. The bucket keeps the operator safe as the boom lifts them to an elevated height where they can comfortably perform their work operation safely and efficiently.

These trucks have been used for years to perform basic aerial tasks and are now becoming even more common due to their efficacy and increased efficiency. Another reason why they’re being used more commonly is because of the new OSHA regulations that mandate a decrease in the use of scaffolding and ladders for off-the-ground jobs.

According to a market intelligence study, the global bucket truck market is predicted to reach a valuation of around $1.5 billion by the year 2027. And since several end-user companies are spending more on smart infrastructure solutions, bucket truck companies are now enhancing bucket truck attributes and their units for more efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.

Understanding the Engineering Prowess of Bucket Trucks

Let’s take a look at the intricate engineering of bucket trucks and learn how they allow construction workers to reach unreachable heights while maintaining safety and stability.

The Hydraulic System

The hydraulic system is the backbone of the bucket truck that powers the boom’s movement, the bucket’s retraction and extension, and various other essential functions. It utilizes hydraulic fluids, control valves, and pressure to generate a powerful force that is needed for both lifting and positioning.

The Components of the Hydraulic System

Hydraulic Pump

At the heart of the hydraulic system is the hydraulic pump. The pump converts mechanical power from the truck’s engine into hydraulic power.

Hydraulic pumps can be of the following types:

Piston pumps: Piston pumps are required whenever there is high operating pressure. These pumps can withstand higher pressures compared to gear pumps and are more complex. These pumps are equipped with pistons that move in and out within the pump. The constant movement of the pistons draws oil from the supply port and pushes it through the outlet. The pump also consists of a cylinder block that rotates with the pump’s input. The swash plate angle determines the length of the pump displacement.

Gear pumps: These pumps have fewer moving parts and are also called positive displacement pumps. They trap oil between the two gears inside the pump and move it around the gear cavity until it is forced into the outlet port.

Vane pumps: Vane pumps have an input shaft that rotates to cause the oil to move from the pump’s vanes to the outlet. This allows the area between the vanes to increase by the inlet side and decrease by the outlet side to draw oil from the supply port and then remove it through the outlet.

Hydraulic Cylinders

These are responsible for converting hydraulic pressure into linear motion. A bucket truck utilizes hydraulic cylinders to extend and retract the boom, as well as to tilt and rotate the bucket. They consist of a cylindrical barrel, a piston, and seals to prevent fluid leakage.

Control Valves

Control valves regulate the flow and direction of hydraulic fluid within the system. Operators typically control them with hydraulic levers or electronic controls in the truck’s cabin, allowing precise manipulation of the boom and bucket movements.

Reservoir and Filters

The hydraulic reservoir stores the hydraulic fluid and also serves as a heat exchange to dissipate excess heat generated during operation. Manufacturers install filters in the system to remove contaminants and ensure the cleanliness of the hydraulic fluid, thus prolonging the life of components.

Bucket Truck Aerial Platforms

One of the defining features of bucket trucks is the aerial platforms. These platforms provide workers access to elevated work spaces. Bucket trucks mount aerial platforms on extendable booms designed to withstand the rigors of demanding tasks while ensuring maximum security for construction workers.

Constructed from high-strength steel and aluminum alloys, bucket truck aerial platforms have impressive load capacities and stability. This allows workers to perform a wide range of tasks with confidence. From installing signage and repairing power lines to trimming trees, these platforms enable workers to perform their work operations with increased efficacy.

Components of the Aerial Platform

The aerial platform of the bucket truck consists of these key components.

A bucket or platform: At the end of the hydraulic boom arm, there is a platform or bucket where workers can stand or sit to perform their tasks at height. These buckets can safely accommodate one or more workers.

Boom arm: The boom arm is an articulating structure that can extend from the chassis of the truck to get to elevated locations. Manufacturers construct this component from high-strength materials like steel and aluminum.

Hydraulic system: The hydraulic system powers the boom arm movement and platform elevation. This system utilizes hydraulic fluid and pumps to control the arm positioning.

Controls: Operators control the movement of the aerial platform using a set of hydraulic controls located within the truck’s cab. These controls allow for precise positioning of the boom arm and platform, enabling workers to access specific areas safely.

Control Systems

Modern bucket trucks come with advanced control systems that enhance operator safety and productivity.

From intuitive joystick controls to sophisticated electronic monitoring systems, these control systems provide operators with unprecedented control and feedback. Real-time data on hydraulic pressure, boom angle, and load capacity allow operators to make informed decisions, ensuring optimal performance and safety at all times.

Furthermore, features such as automatic leveling and collision detection further enhance the capabilities of bucket trucks, making them indispensable assets in industries ranging from utilities and telecommunications to construction and maintenance.

Are you looking to invest in high-quality bucket trucks for sale in Texas?

Look no further than Big Truck & Equipment Sales, the leading supplier of used bucket trucks, vacuum trucks, and digger derrick trucks for sale, we offer an incomparable selection of used trucks that are engineered for optimal performance with maximized productivity.

Our team is present round the clock to help you find the most suitable heavy-duty vehicle for your work operations.

Contact us today to learn more about our Altec bucket trucks for sale.