Aerial Work Vehicle Slew Drive

Aerial work platforms (AWPs), often referred to as aerial work vehicles, utilize slew drives to enable precise and controlled rotational movement of the platform or boom. These slew drives are integral to the functionality and safety of aerial work platforms, which include boom lifts, scissor lifts, and cherry pickers. They allow the operator to position the platform or boom at various angles and heights, providing essential maneuverability for tasks at elevated positions.

What is a Slew Drive?

A slew drive is a ready-to-install unit consisting of a slewing bearing, a drive gear, and a motor (electric or hydraulic), enclosed in a casing. It is designed to handle radial and axial loads with a large tilting moment. The drive gear, typically a worm gear, meshes with the gearing of the slewing bearing, providing rotational motion.

Design Features of Aerial Work Vehicle Slew Drives

Compact and Modular Design: Slew drives are compact and modular, making them easy to integrate into various designs of aerial work platforms.

High Torque Capacity: The worm gearing provides high torque and reduces the speed, allowing for smooth and controlled rotational movements.

Self-locking Mechanism: Many slew drives have a natural self-locking ability, which enhances safety by preventing back-driving in case of power failure.

Precision Control: The design allows for precise control over the movement, crucial for operations where fine adjustments are necessary for positioning.

Integrated Motor and Gearbox: These units often come with an integrated motor and gearbox, simplifying the mechanical complexity and reducing the installation space required.

Advantages of Slew Drives in Aerial Work Vehicles

Enhanced Safety: The self-locking feature ensures that the platform remains stable and secure even when hydraulic or electric power is not available.

Durability: Slew drives are built to withstand harsh environments and continuous operation, making them durable for the rigorous demands of aerial work.

Ease of Maintenance: The modular design simplifies maintenance and replacement processes, as the entire unit can be serviced or replaced without disassembling other components.

Versatility: Slew drives can be used in a variety of configurations and sizes of aerial work platforms, adapting to different load and torque requirements.

Improved Operational Efficiency: Provides smooth and efficient movement, reducing the time and effort required to position the platform or boom.

Common Applications in Aerial Work Vehicles

Rotation of the Work Platform or Boom: Slew drives are primarily used to rotate the work platform or boom in AWPs, allowing operators to reach different areas without moving the base of the vehicle.

Articulation Points: In more complex designs, such as articulated boom lifts, slew drives may also be used at various articulation points to provide additional angles and extensions.

Selection Considerations of Aerial Work Vehicle Slew Drives

Load and Torque Requirements: It's crucial to select a slew drive that can handle the specific load and torque demands of the application, considering both the weight of the platform and its maximum load capacity.

Environmental Conditions: The operating environment can affect material selections and sealing solutions. For instance, operations in dusty or wet conditions require better sealing to protect internal components.

Power Source Compatibility: The choice between electric and hydraulic motors in slew drives depends on the available power sources and operational requirements of the aerial work platform.

Safety Standards: Compliance with safety standards and certifications is crucial, especially given the high-risk nature of working at heights.