Wear parts on the scissor lift table - what you need to know

• 1. Note
• 2. Mechanical wear parts
• 3. Electrical wear parts
• 4. Hydraulic wear parts
• 5. Conclusion

Scissor lift tables are known for their robustness and durability - which is precisely why they are indispensable in many industrial applications. They demonstrate their strengths wherever heavy loads need to be moved safely and efficiently in confined spaces. However, even with proven technology, wear and tear cannot be completely avoided - and this naturally also applies to scissor lift tables.

In this article, you will find out which typical wear parts can occur on a standard lift table without special equipment - how to recognize initial defects and how you can ideally take countermeasures at an early stage.

The information is based on standard products from our company. The situation may differ for special designs or lift tables from other manufacturers. If in doubt, we recommend taking a look at the relevant operating instructions.

Let's start with the classic mechanical components - they are often the most stressed.

Bearing bushes

A standard lift table has bearing bushes in the following locations:

• Fixed bearing
• Floating bearing
• Cylinder mounts
• Connecting bearing (for double or triple scissors)

Depending on the load and stroke frequency, either maintenance-free or greasable bearings are used.  

Typical signs of worn bearings:

• Noticeable axial or radial play
• Unusual operating noises
• Visible abrasion particles
• Chipped bushings

Important: A worn bearing can usually be replaced quickly and inexpensively. However, if a pin is damaged, this can result in significantly more complex and expensive repairs.

Special case of floating bearing

Two other components are potentially susceptible to wear in the floating bearing:

• Floating bearing roller – usually not critical
• Running surface – subject to heavy wear, especially on stationary high performance lift tables

For this reason, we rely on replaceable running surfaces for highly stressed tables - for easy maintenance and a longer service life.

Electrical components also age - even if their service life is often longer than that of mechanical components.

Sensors and switches

Mechanically actuated sensors in particular, such as roller lever switches, are subject to two main types of wear:

1. Mechanical wear of moving parts
2. Switching arcs, which can damage the contacts or, in extreme cases, weld them together

Consequence: The sensor remains permanently in the active state and no longer responds reliably.

Relays, motor contactors & co.

Relays and motor contactors can also suffer contact wear over time due to switching arcs. Replacement is therefore necessary after a long period of operation.

Electric motor

One of the most common causes of failure in electric motors is mechanical wear, especially on the bearings. Further risks arise from thermal overload, soiling or overvoltage, which can damage the winding insulation and lead to short circuits.

Push buttons

Push-buttons rarely fail due to normal wear and tear. Mechanical damage caused by external influences, such as a forklift truck, is more common. Nevertheless, push-buttons are also subject to mechanical and electrical loads - for example on the return spring or the switching contacts.

The hydraulic system is at the heart of every hydraulic lift table. Safe and efficient operation can only be guaranteed if it functions reliably.

Cylinder seals

Cylinder seals prevent hydraulic oil from escaping from the piston rod. Contamination on the piston rod or high loads due to intensive use can lead to leaks. First sign: oil loss in the cylinder area.

Hydraulic hoses

Hydraulic hoses are subject to natural ageing - UV radiation, heat or heavy movement lead to material fatigue over time. Hose guides over sharp edges or in contact with other components, for example due to friction, are particularly critical.
To maximize service life and prevent failures, we rely on:

• Protective hoses
• Professional installation
• Ageing monitoring in accordance with maintenance specifications

Hydraulic oil

Hydraulic oil is also affected by wear. The three main causes are:

1. Mixing with unsuitable oil types
2. Overheating
3. Contamination by particles

What you should bear in mind:

• When changing the oil, only use hydraulic oil with an identical specification. The corresponding information can be found on the tank or in the technical documentation.
• Pay attention to the maximum duty cycle. Overheating can cause a loss of additives.
• Contamination often occurs due to improper oil changes or internal abrasion, for example on pumps or valves. We therefore recommend regular oil changes or condition analyses.

Gear pumps, valves and control blocks

These components are sensitive to cavitation (sudden vapor lock at low pressure) and contamination by dirt particles. 
Possible symptoms are:

• The pump no longer builds up sufficient pressure
• The lift table slowly sinks, e.g. due to a defective lowering valve

Even though scissor lift tables are designed for durability, wear is unavoidable. Regular maintenance and keeping an eye on the typical weak points not only extends the service life of the lift table, but also ensures safe, trouble-free operation.

ℹ️ Tip: For more information on recommended maintenance intervals, see our article Maintenance of scissor lift tables.