Jib Crane Design Fundamentals Explained

A jib crane is a type of crane that consists of a horizontal beam or boom that rotates around a central pivot point.

The design of a jib crane is centered around its structural integrity, which is essential for safe and efficient operation.

A jib crane's structural integrity is influenced by its boom length and radius, which can vary depending on the specific application.

A typical jib crane has a boom length that ranges from 10 to 30 feet, with a corresponding radius of 5 to 15 feet.

The weight capacity of a jib crane is also a critical design consideration, and is typically determined by the boom's material and size.

The weight capacity of a jib crane can range from a few hundred pounds to several tons, depending on the specific design and application.

For more insights, see: Jib Crane Design Drawings

A jib crane is a type of crane that's perfect for specific tasks and spaces. It has a horizontal boom that supports a movable hoist that moves in a circular or semi-circular motion.

You might be wondering if a jib crane is right for your needs. If you need to lift less than 1 ton, a jib crane is a great option. It's also suitable for industries with repeatable tasks.

If you're short on space, don't worry – jib cranes come in compact designs. A floor-mounted jib crane, for example, is perfect for tight spaces or supplementing other overhead cranes. You can even use it outdoors.

There are several types of jib cranes to choose from. Here are a few options:

Each type of jib crane has its own benefits. For example, a wall-mounted jib crane provides the most clearance, making it useful for spaces with overhead obstructions.

There are several types of jib cranes, each suited for different purposes. One of the most versatile types is the mast-type jib crane, which is less expensive than other crane types due to its lower foundation requirements.

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Mast-type cranes can use multiple sources of support, such as an overhead support beam, and can support 360° of rotation and boom heights up to 40’. They also usually have a capacity that ranges up to 10 tons.

A full cantilever mast-type crane has the most lifting capacity available and also the most clearance. However, overhead crane parts can be expensive to replace and require new foundations.

You can also consider wall-mounted jib cranes, which offer 180-degrees of rotation, or freestanding and mast-style setups that provide full 360-degree rotation. Articulating jib cranes are another option, but they are often limited to carrying light loads and are attached to a truck or vehicle.

Here are some key features of each type of crane:

It's essential to consider your specific needs and requirements when choosing the right type of jib crane for your site.

Jib cranes have a simple mechanical design, making them highly useful and adaptable for lifting tasks that require repetitive and precise motion. This design enables them to lift from 250lbs to 15 tons.

The key components of a jib crane include various parts that work together to undertake specific tasks. These components are designed to provide ample support for the manufacturing industry.

Here are the key components of a jib crane:

Jib cranes are overhead lifting devices that are often used in small work areas for lifting tasks that require repetitive and precise motion.

They can lift from 250lbs to 15 tons, making them a versatile tool for various tasks.

Jib cranes have simple, mechanical designs that are well-suited for small work areas.

Their ergonomic design is highly valued for increasing productivity, efficiency, and safety.

They can work in concert with overhead bridge cranes to become even more efficient.

Jib cranes are highly adaptable and useful in a variety of settings.

For another approach, see: How Do Tower Cranes Work

A jib crane's design and components are what make it so versatile and useful.

The Height Under The Boom (HUB) is a crucial factor to consider, as it affects the lifting distance and overall functionality of the crane.

A rotation mechanism allows the jib arm to pivot horizontally, enabling the crane to cover a larger area without needing to be relocated.

Freestanding jib cranes are highly versatile and can be installed in any location, typically supporting 360° of rotation and boom heights up to 40’.

Wall-mounted jib cranes, on the other hand, can use existing walls or embedded support columns as a foundation, offering a more affordable option.

The type of crane you choose will depend on the specific requirements of your workspace and the tasks you need to perform.

Articulating jib cranes have two swivel arms that can lift loads around corners and obstructions, making them ideal for complex and confined workspaces.

The boom height of a crane is also an important consideration, with some types of cranes offering boom heights of up to 30’.

The hoist is a crucial component of a jib crane, responsible for lifting and lowering loads. It's attached to the jib arm and can be operated manually or powered by various systems.

There are different types of hoists available, including Electric or Manual Chain Hoists and Wire Rope Hoists. Wire Rope Hoists are better suited for larger models.

The hoist can be suspended in various ways, including Push Travel Suspension, where it's physically pushed or pulled along the arm. Geared Travel Suspension involves pulling a hand chain to turn the wheels of the trolley. Electric Travel Suspension allows the hoist to travel along the boom electronically, controlled via a low-voltage pendant control or wireless remote unit.

Here are the suspension methods in a concise list:

The Clamp-Around Column is a versatile option for workspace utilization. It's mounted to an existing vertical pillar or mast, making the most of your available space.

This design allows for flexibility and efficiency in your workspace. Pillar Jib Arm Cranes can be mounted to these pillars, giving you a reliable lifting solution.

These cranes are available in capacities up to 1 tonne, which is suitable for a variety of tasks. You can choose from arm lengths of up to 6m to suit your specific needs.

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Choosing the right crane is crucial for efficient and safe operations. It's essential to consider the space available when purchasing a Swing/Jib Arm Crane system.

Your capacity needs should be determined by adding the weight of your rigging and lifting devices to the materials you'll be carrying. This will help you choose the right crane for your business.

The working height of a crane is measured from the underside of the boom to the floor, and you'll also need to think about the lifting height and hoist size. This will ensure that your crane can handle the tasks you need it to.

The working span of a crane is the distance it needs to reach, and you'll need to measure the boom length and subtract about 1/2 the trolley length at each end. This will give you an idea of how much space you need to accommodate the crane.

Power requirements will be specific to your manufacturing needs, and you may need power for a motor drive, hoist, or the trolley. A team member can help you determine your requirements.

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The area of rotation you need will depend on the type of crane you choose. Wall-mounted cranes offer 180-degrees of rotation, while freestanding and mast-style setups provide full 360-degree rotation.

Here are the six key things to consider when choosing a crane:

Mast Type cranes are a great option for those who want to avoid the expense of a foundation. They can be mounted to the building's floor and steel beams, allowing for full 360-degree rotation.

One of the benefits of Mast Type cranes is their flexibility and versatility. They can usually support 360° of rotation and boom heights up to 40’.

These cranes are also relatively less expensive than other types, as they only need 6” of concrete to support them. This makes them a cost-effective choice for many businesses.

Mast Type cranes come in two different types: full cantilever and drop cantilever. The full cantilever style has the most lifting capacity available and also the most clearance.

A Mast Type crane can support capacities up to the high end of 10 tons, making them suitable for a variety of tasks.

Here's an interesting read: Cantilever Jib Crane