Nine Interesting Facts about How Hydraulic Lifts Work

Need a hydraulic lift? Unless you are secretly Superman disguised as an auto mechanic, then you need an auto lift, and you need to know how lifts work. The high-efficiency hydraulic equipment we provide can help you get any heavy lifting job done. The right equipment depends on your business and your needs. Here are some interesting facts about how different types of lifts work.

The cars on the lifts in a repair garage

1. Water Power

Hydraulic lifts can actually use water or oil, but the principle is the same. The incompressible liquid fills the pistons and tubes of the machine, applying constant pressure and causing the pistons to lift.

2. Force = Pressure x Surface Area

This formula determines how big of an object you are able to lift. If the piston has a larger surface area, it will exert more force and allow you to lift bigger objects.

3. Opposites Attract

Generally, the hydraulic auto lift utilizes two pistons that work in opposition to each other. When force is applied on one piston, the pressurized fluid pushes the other piston up.

4. Economy and Midsize Cars

Most two-post auto lifts work best for smaller and midsize vehicles. Some heavy duty lifts can support larger vehicles.

5. Large Vehicles and Trucks

Four-post lifts provide additional stability and load-bearing ability for larger vehicles. If you service trucks, semis, buses, or vans, then this type of auto hydraulic lift may be best.

6. 30,000 Pounds

Our advanced auto lifts can allow you to lift anywhere between 7,000 to 30,000 pounds. This is because of the advanced rotary lift technology we utilize.

7. Mobility

Mobile column lifts offer great adjustability and versatility. You can set them up in your shop easily and quickly.

8. Wheel Fit

Most lifts, such as the two-post, four-post, and mobile column lifts, lift the vehicle by its wheels using fitted wheel forks. Having adjustable wheel forks will allow you to service more vehicle types on just one lift system.

9. Friction

One reason hydraulic lifts are so effective is because they produce minimal amounts of friction. Thanks to the pressure of incompressible fluids, you will not spend all your time and money repairing friction-caused damage.

Have more questions about hydraulic lifts? We're here to answer them and help you find custom solutions for your business.