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What is a Jib Crane?

A Jib crane may also be referred to as a swing Jib crane or slewing jib crane and is a type of crane which typically consists of a supporting column to which a slewing jib arm or boom is attached. Together with accessories such as a hoisting device and beam trolley they enable the lifting, lowering and moving of heavy loads within a specific area.

The lifting area will be restricted to the reach and range of slew/rotation of the boom. These are commonly used in many industrial settings, warehouses, dockyards and within the construction industry.

Our Jib cranes have a hand powered/manual rotation whereby they move in an arc, up to 270 degrees, the load can also be hand traversed along the beam by means of a trolley, however it is possible to have electric traverse movements if required, by using a power drive trolley.

A push and pull motion is used to rotate the jib arm and to move the load across the arm if a manual push travel trolley is used.

The lifting and lowering of the load is usually done by means of a hoist, either manually or electrically powered, we are able to supply and fit electric hoists, as well as manual hoists/chain blocks, and any other lifting equipment you may need.

It is worth noting that a jib cranes arm doesn’t have to swing; it can also be manufactured in a Fixed Position or have limiting slew stops added to minimise the range of slew to a specific area.

Jib Crane Custom Options

We can offer you a wide range of Jib crane customization options, including under-braced Jibs or over-braced cranes manufactured here on site, to suit your lifting/hoisting needs/specifications.

When it comes to lifting capacities we offer 4 sizes; 125kg, 250kg, 500kg and 1000kg. The height of lift is determined by the height under the jib arm which we can make anything up to 5 metres. The length of the jib arm can also be up to 5 metres with 3, 3.5 and 4 meters being popular options. Height and span measurements can be adjusted to suit your specific needs on request.

If you will be using powered trolleys and/or lifting hoists then you may like to consider a catenary and festoon system. These are added during manufacture and highly elevate safety margins because they hold all power cables away from moving parts, thus reducing hazards.

Isolators and knockout boxes are other options to think about, as are slew stops which are useful if you need to limit the range of motion/ swing.

Although you can use your own lifting equipment, providing it is compatible we can also supply a range of beam trolleys and lifting hoists to suit the crane and safe working load. Slings, shackles and any other equipment you may need can be purchased at the same time here at Lifting Hoists Direct.

Floor Mounted Jib Crane Models

Commonly called floor mounted or free standing jib cranes. They use very heavy duty bolts along with chemical anchors to secure them to the floor. It is essential that the floor or foundations are solid and stable and are able to take the weight of both the crane and the loads that will be lifted. In some cases the foundations may need inspecting and testing by a qualified person to assess the strength and stability.

Although floor mounting takes up some floor space the main benefit is the ability to lift heavier loads up to 1000kg; they can also offer a range of slewing options.

Jib Crane Bracing

These types of cranes need to be stable and structurally sound (may need additional assessment) and can be manufactured with under or over braced jib arms.

Under Braced Jib Crane

An under braced frame work incorporates a steel support beam from the main, side column to the jib arm, offering essential support for those heavy loads; Because the under brace is sited under the jib arm the crane to be fitted right up to roof level giving the advantage of gaining the maximum possible height of lift.

Over Braced Jib Crane

The over braced system incorporates a similar support beam, but unlike the under braced version the brace is fitted above the arm. Whilst this will lower the height of lift slightly it will maximize the travel span across the beam. Over bracing will give you maximum travel up to the upright column.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT ONE:

Due to the fact that these types of cranes come in numerous variations, careful consideration should be made to all aspects to ensure you get the most well suited crane for its intended applications.

Things to consider;

Size: height and span/radius

• Lifting Capacity

• Bracing: under-braced or over-braced (over-braced gives more room to travel across the beam, under-braced is ideal for lower headroom areas)

• Range of slew / rotation – typically up to 270 degrees

• Custom add-ons; slew stops, catenary systems and festoons, power isolator switches

• Additional equipment: trolley and manual hoist or electric hoist.

Commissioning & Installing your Custom Jib Crane:

Whatever type you choose, we can offer the full service, from custom building your bespoke crane to your own specifications to delivering, installing and load testing your new crane to ensure it follows all safety regulations and protocols.

The stability and safety of your crane highly depends on its foundations or supports and should be assessed to ensure they can withstand the superimposed forces which will be applied by the crane and the loads it lifts. Floor foundations may need reinforcing, and column mounted cranes will need preventative measures to be taken to prevent the jib from sliding down.

Get in touch regarding our jib cranes for sale or if more information is needed contact us today.