Jib Cranes
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Understanding Jib Cranes
A jib or boom crane is made of a vertical support and horizontal main lifting arm “boom”. The horizontal post or beam can connect to a wall or floor mounting system. The boom arm or horizontal post supports the hoist mechanism.
Jib Cranes lift and transport materials in full circles (360 degrees) or semi-circles (200 degrees) around their support structure. These jib cranes can also be used to transfer materials to adjacent workstations. Hoists, manipulators, balancers or other below the hook devices can be installed on the jibs’ booms. Jib cranes have three directions of movement, rotational around the axis, traversing (trolley movement along the jib) and vertical (hoist up / down motion). Jib cranes can be configured to have any combination of these motions be either motorized or push / manual.
Types of Cranes
When looking for a jib crane, you need to consider the installation method and the articulation of the device. Several types of cranes may suit the needs of your manufacturing process.
Wall Mounted
A wall mounted jib crane is secured to the wall with two rails, one upper and lower. These cranes are used for long lateral movements, and they are well-suited for buildings with little floor space. Another benefit of the wall-mounted system is that they will not interfere with other overhead systems.
Floor Mount
Floor mounted jib cranes can be either freestanding (foundation required) or foundationless. Freestanding options offer longer spans than wall-mounted cranes, and they can typically handle a more massive load. Foundationless cranes have the added benefit of not requiring a unique poured foundation, meaning that you can install them wherever needed.
Mast Type
If you would rather negate the expense of a foundation, then consider a mast-style jib. These cranes mount to the building's floor and steel beams, and they provide full 360-degree rotation for a highly versatile crane setup.
Articulating
A truly unique and versatile setup, the articulating jib design is a problem solver. The crane can be mounted to walls, ceilings, floors or even existing bridge cranes, and its arm can reach under or into machinery to easily retrieve and move loads. The design allows operators to move items around obstacles, like corners or columns.
Workstation
Workstation cranes are small and manual. They make repetitive lifting both ergonomic and comfortable. As they are not motorized, the manipulation and transfer of materials are quick for the operator, and there is a minimal learning curve.
Choosing the Right Crane for Your Site
Finding the right crane for your business is about more than considering the jib crane parts. You need to understand your space and particular material and hoist requirements. While jib cranes provide ample support for the manufacturing industry, you will need to consider at least the following six things.
Are you ready to purchase a jib system for your facility, or do you need more information? Our experts are always standing by to offer assistance.
- Capacity: One of the first things you need to determine is your capacity needs. This is calculated by adding the weight of your rigging/ below the hook lifting devices and the materials you will be carrying.
- Working Height: The measurement from the underside of the boom to the floor is the working height. You will also need to think about the lifting height and hoist size.
- Working Span: How far out do you need the crane to reach? To measure the operational span, you need to measure the boom length and subtract about 1/2 the trolley length at each end.
- Power Requirements: The power requirements will be specific to your manufacturing needs. You may need power for a motor drive, hoist or the trolley. Perhaps you will need power for all three. One of our team members can help you determine your requirements.
- Area of Rotation: How much rotation do you need? While wall-mounted cranes offer 180-degrees of rotation, freestanding and mast-style setups provide full 360-degree rotation.
- Installation: The installation requirements vary based on crane design. A Hoosier Crane representative can help you determine the best installation for your facility. They will need to know your process and what you expect from your jib system.