The new Skyjack SJ20 vertical mast, with a 20 ft platform height, features full electric drive and an optional wind rating, offering an excellent choice for rental companies.

“The SJ20 lift features proportional lift and drive controls with full electric drive, the latter in response to the growing demand for vertical masts with increased duty cycle expectations,” explained Kristopher Schmidt, product manager at Skyjack. “The higher height also meant a new five-section mast design with a closed multistage cylinder.”

The SJ20’s consistent torque provides up to 25% gradeability and boasts a 159 kg platform capacity. Its compact size has been achieved without compromising the work area, said Skyjack. The machine also holds a GVW of 1,170 kg, which results in low ground pressure, making it ideal for standard elevator and mezzanine applications.

“Similar to our next generation DC scissor lifts, our new vertical masts also feature an onboard diagnostic system,” added Mr Schmidt. “By providing operators or service technicians with real-time faults in plain simple language, we’ve eliminated the need for plug-in calibration for day-to-day troubleshooting.”

The new SJ20 mast design minimises site debris, buildup, damage to components, and is free from any chains, sheaves, or bushings, which reduces maintenance. According to Skyjack, its existing SJ12 and SJ16 are the only masts in the market to keep the mast to the rear of the control position, and the SJ20 is no exception.

Other commonalities of the SJ20 with its smaller counterparts include: a traversing deck that provides up to 16-in of up-and-over capability; easy-access maintenance hatch, providing unrestricted access to all major components including batteries; and improved ground clearance for pothole protection without components to maintain or potentially snag on cords or debris.

“While designing the SJ20, we kept customer demands in mind, specifically the demand for both indoor and outdoor applications,” said Mr Schmidt. “The SJ20 is wind rated for one person up to 3.96 m, which increases the application possibilities and increases the rate of return for rental companies.”

Click here to watch video of the SJ20 vertical mast launch.