Over Braced Jib Crane Basics

The main reason for bracing a jib crane from the top rather than under the top beam is so that the whole of the beam can be used for lifting and moving a load. With an under braced system the bracing is fixed part way across the underside of the beam, thus restricting movement.

The over bracing also offers excellent support to the beam as it is fixed right to the end.

One downside to over braced jib cranes is that you can’t max out the height of lift due to the top brace which is fitted to the top of the column and angled down to the end of the beam, thus the beam will sit somewhat lower on the main column.

Over Braced Swing Jib Size Options

Lifting Capacities

Maximum loading capacities start at 125kg with 250kg, 500kg and 1000kg options so there is a good choice for lifting and moving many load types.

Height of Lift

The height under the beam – often referred to as the maximum height of lift can be anything up to 5 metres. Remember to add on the additional height of the top over brace to ensure it will fit into your ceiling space. See the specifications for all the dimensions.

You should also factor in the size of the equipment you attach to the beam to do the lifting. This is typically some form of beam trolley and a lifting hoist. Once these are attached to the underside of the beam and the hoist bottom hook is all the way up this will enable you to measure your maximum possible lifting height.

Arm Length – Travel Radius

The length of the top beam or slewing arm as it is often called can also be almost any size up to 5 metres to suit your requirements. There will be a stop near the end of the beam, this is known as the end stop and prevents your trolley from travelling off the end. Although a small size (typically 50mm from the end) please factor this into your travelling span.

Slewing Range

The slewing range refers to the arc of travel. The Jib arm can travel through approximately 270 degrees around the main upright column. Together with the length of the arm reach you can obtain a large area in which load handling can be carried out. Lift the load in one place, travel it across the beam and slew the Jib arm to the required location, then set down the load.

If you will never need the full range of slew then travel stops can be added to set the slewing range to suit your needs.

Optional Extras

We have a few optional extras to consider to further enhance and customise your swing jib.

• Catenary system with festoons/cable holders
• Isolator Switch
• Power Sockets
• Extra Stops
• Beam trolley – manual or powered
• Lifting Hoist – manual or powered
• Slings and shackles

As you can see Lifting Hoists Direct can supply the complete lifting set up specifically to suit your lifting requirements. Our team are highly experienced and have been manufacturing this type of crane as well as mobile lifting gantry systems for many years with dozens of return customers.

Get in touch with your requirements for a truly bespoke service.