Lifting Jack vs Hydraulic Jack – What’s the Difference?

If you want to lift the heavy loads efficiently, you should have the right rigging solution by your side. Among the various load-lifting solutions available, jacks are an indispensable tool. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional mechanic, if you are thinking of using a jack, you should know the difference between the two major jacks: the lifting jack and the hydraulic jack. Though both of them are used for lifting loads, they have different mechanisms and benefits. This post, let us list it down for you.

What is Lifting Jack?

It is equipment that is used to lift heavy loads. It consists of various types of jacks, like the mechanical and hydraulic types. The lifting jack is available in manual (mechanical) as well as fluid-powered one (hydraulic). Some of the common types of lifting jacks are scissor jacks, screw jacks, and rack-pinion jacks. This jack functions on mechanical energy. It requires physical effort, which is then amplified and used to lift the heavy load. The scissor jack is one of the best examples of the lifting jack, which uses a simple crank mechanism to elevate the heavy vehicle off the ground. 

Benefits of the Lifting Jacks

  • Simple design 
  • User-friendly operation
  • Portable
  • Cost-effective, as there is no power usage
  • No fluids required, and thus there is no risk of leakage

What are Hydraulic Jacks?

This load-lifting machine functions on hydraulic pressure to lift heavy loads. The hydraulic jacks work on Pascal’s law, according to which when pressure is applied to the fluid in a closed system, the pressure is generated equally in all directions. The pressure generated leads to lifting of the piston, which eventually leads to lifting the load. Bottle jacks, floor jacks, trolley jacks, and hydraulic ram jacks are some of the top models of hydraulic jacks. 

Benefits of Hydraulic Jack

  • Ergonomic design
  • Heavy-load lifting capacity
  • Requires less physical effort

Which Jack Should You Choose?

Both the jacks have their own share of benefits, but which one is best for you? It depends on some of the factors mentioned below:

  • For Emergency Usage:

In case of an emergency, like changing a flat tire, a mechanical lifting jack, like a scissor jack, is sufficient. It is light and portable. 

  • For Heavy Applications:

For frequent heavy-duty applications in a garage or lifting heavy vehicles, the hydraulic jack is a better choice. The ease of use, power, and speed that it offers are apt for demanding tasks. 

  • Industrial Settings:

If you are looking for a jack for industrial usage, hydraulic jacks are the best option, as they are especially designed for handling heavy loads. They can move loads with ease.

Final Words…

When you mention the term ‘lifting jack’, it refers to a wide range of devices, and a hydraulic jack is the one that uses fluid pressure to move the load. The key difference lies in their working principle and the user effort required. The lifting jack is portable and lightweight; the hydraulic jack shines with its high capacity and performance. Orione Hydropower load lifting solutions are high-grade. They have a wide range of jack models, which will make the operations easier. The fine material will provide a long life, and the machine will meet your standards.

Posted in Lifting Jacks