Articulated versus Telescopic Masts
Telescopic Masts versus Linear Actuated Masts.
Telesopic and linear actuated engineered solutions have been around for a while. Telescopic deployment is much more commonplace in mast solutions, whilst linear actuated products are focused around equipment like mobile access platforms. Mast design has remained unchanged for many years but that is now being challenged and for good reason.
Telescopicng masts have some advantages, especially when deploying heavy equipment.
They are strong, simple, and have been a relatively reliable solution for many years. The problem comes when we evaluate maintenance, longevity and access to the headstock where equipment is mounted. Telescopic masts often have internal working parts that are less reliable in harsh conditions. Once a failure occurs either to the internal cables or the pneumatic seals then repair is costly and generally requires the mast to be transported to a repair facility.
With a linear actuated mast design all of the working parts are located externally.
With a superior design, parts are easily swapped out on site. The actuators are also less susceptible to failure as they are actuated by the mechanical drive and not cables or compressed air.
With an articulated mast deployed using linear actuators, access to the headstock is made easy without a platform as it is located at ground level. Articulated masts can also be deployed using a simple 12V battery supply meaning that safety is improved with push-button activation. One of the additional advantages is that the equipment mounted on the headstock remains in the vertical position throughout the deployment. For all these reasons considering an alternative to the conventional mast design is worth exploring.
Innomast offers an articulated mast design with simpler and safer activation control. Lightweight & portable, our articulated masts are suitable for a range of applications including Communications, Security, Surveillance & Photography. VIEW MASTS