Post lift
A post lift is a lifting device which is typically used to raise vehicles inside buildings for easy repair and maintenance access. Most post lifts are above ground, but there are also in-ground varieties.
Contents |
[edit] Two post lift
This is the most commonly-used type of post lift. It consists of two upright columns, four adjustable arms attached to a carriage assembly, and two hydraulic cylinders. It is usually mounted to an existing concrete structure, at least 4 inches thick. Most are powered by an electric/hydraulic power unit.
The power unit delivers pressurised hydraulic fluid to the cylinders. A set of equalisation cables is installed between the carriages to ensure that all four arms move together. Automatic safety arm locks are designed to secure the lift arms, once the arm pads have been properly positioned under the vehicle.
[edit] Four post lift
This type of lift allows the vehicle to be driven onto two runways and lifted by its tyres. The advantage of this lift is that their is full access to the underside of the vehicle.
[edit] Drive-on parallelogram
This is a drive-on lift with two runways. The lifting mechanism can move the vehicle a short distance when lifting or lowering; or it can simply be lifted straight up and down. The two parallel runways are usually synchronised by hydraulic or electronic means; sometimes with a torsion bar connected to opposing legs.
[edit] Scissors
Surface-mounted and in-ground scissor lifts are available; either as a drive-on with runways or frame/body-engaging. It is similar to a parallelogram lift but raises and lowers the vehicle in a straight vertical path.
[edit] In-ground lift
This type of lift has its assembly installed below the concrete floor. One or more hydraulic pistons or scissors mechanisms can be used depending on the weight to be lifted.
[edit] Wheel engaging mobile units
Also known as a mobile column lift, this consists of individual lifting columns used in sets of 2, 4, 6, or more units. Each individual column is mobile and contains an electric power unit. Cables or wireless technology is used to synchronise the column lifting and lowering.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
C20 Society; Buildings at Risk List 2025
10 more buildings published with updates on the past decade of buildings featured.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme and certifications consultation
Summary of government consultation, closing 11 June 2025.
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
From project managers to rising stars, sustainability pioneers and more.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.
The emancipation of women in art.
Call for independent National Grenfell oversight mechanism
MHCLG share findings of Building Safety Inquiry in letter to Secretary of State and Minister for Building Safety.
The Architectural Technology Awards
AT Awards now open for this the sixth decade of CIAT.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson awards
Deadline for submissions Friday 30 May 2025.
The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems
Top ten benefits of this notable innovation.
Encouraging individuals to take action saving water at home, work, and in their communities.
Takes a community to support mental health and wellbeing
The why of becoming a Mental Health Instructor explained.
Mental health awareness week 13-18 May
The theme is communities, they can provide a sense of belonging, safety, support in hard times, and a sense purpose.
Mental health support on the rise but workers still struggling
CIOB Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025 shows.
Design and construction material libraries
Material, sample, product or detail libraries a key component of any architectural design practice.