Lift tables provide a safer, more stable way to raise and lower heavy loads in a warehouse or manufacturing plant. They do so using either pneumatic or hydraulic lifting technology, both of which can handle thousands of pounds of weight without the need for a forklift.

While hydraulics provide a powerful lift, they come with risks and drawbacks that make them difficult to manage and maintain, especially in comparison to pneumatic lift tables. We’ll explore the key differences between the two main types of lift tables and explain why pneumatic lift tables are the best choice for safety, cleanliness, maintenance, and efficiency.

Pneumatic vs. Hydraulic: Key Differences

The key difference between pneumatic and hydraulic lift tables lies in how the lifting mechanism is powered. Hydraulic lifts are powered by, as the name indicates, hydraulics. Pneumatic lift tables are powered by compressed air.

Because of its higher mass density, hydraulic fluid can lift more overall weight and offers a wider range of stopping points from flat to extended. However, this is where the benefits of hydraulics stop. Pneumatic lift tables can handle up to 4,000 lbs, all with a more affordable and easier-to-maintain design.

Advantages of Pneumatic Lift Tables

Pneumatic lift tables are the clear forerunners when it comes to safety, cleanliness, and maintenance. That’s why we only offer pneumatic lift tables at American Manufacturing, because we are confident that they will be the right choice for 9 out of 10 manufacturing plants. Here’s a more in-depth look at the advantages of pneumatic lift tables over hydraulics:

Pneumatic Lift Tables are Safer

Pneumatic lift tables use compressed air to generate lifting force. In the event of a leak, this air is nontoxic and nonflammable, so it won’t introduce any hazards into the workplace, ensuring optimal safety compliance. Conversely, the fluid in hydraulic lift tables can be highly dangerous if it leaks. This fluid is typically a mineral-based hydraulic oil that is flammable and can introduce toxins into the workplace.

Pneumatic Lift Tables are Cleaner

Hydraulic fluid leaks can contaminate manufacturing plants, which is especially concerning for food and beverage plants or those dealing with sensitive materials. Pneumatic lift tables present a cleaner option, as the compressed air does not introduce any external contaminant into your process.

Pneumatic Lift Tables are Lower Maintenance

Hydraulic lift tables require more maintenance due to their more complex design. Fluids need to be changed over time to ensure they do not become too viscous, and other parts like cylinders and pistons can wear out and need replacement.

Both pneumatic and hydraulic lift tables include rollers in tracks that need to be replaced over time, but aside from that, air springs are the only part of pneumatic lift tables that may require replacement. Air springs have excellent longevity, but if they do eventually need to be replaced, this maintenance task is quick and straightforward!

Should You Switch to Pneumatic Lift Tables?

In most cases, switching to pneumatic lift tables will be the right choice. Pneumatics are safer, cleaner, and require less maintenance than hydraulics, and can handle a large capacity. 

If you’re debating whether or not to switch to pneumatic lift tables, take a look at the overall capacity of what your needs are to ensure a pneumatic lift table can support it. If you’re not sure if pneumatic is right for you, contact American Manufacturing, and we can go over these considerations with you.

Ready to elevate your lift tables to new heights? Take a look at our top-of-the-line pneumatic lift tables at American Manufacturing.