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Jib Crane

Jib Cranes are a type of lifting device consisting of an arm (or boom) which extends horizontally from a vertical support like a post or pillar. The arm can rotate around the vertical support enabling it to lift and move loads in a circular path. They are usually selected for lifting and moving light to medium weight loads where headroom is limited.

Jib Cranes are a type of lifting device consisting of an arm (or boom) which extends horizontally from a vertical support like a post or pillar. The arm can rotate around the vertical support enabling it to lift and move loads in a circular path. They are usually selected for lifting and moving light to medium weight loads where headroom is limited.

Types of Jib Cranes

There are several types of jib cranes, each designed for a particular purpose or to work in an area with certain space limitations. Jib cranes are often categorized by the mounting type, or the boom type used.

Features

Mounting Types

Base Mount

Base mount jib cranes also go by the names of floor mount or free standing. These typically install onto a concrete footing, thus not applying a load to the building columns. These self-supporting cranes are fitting for applications which are not near building columns or require large capacities or spans. These can also mount into a sleeve which is installed on top of the floor or recessed into the floor. Capacities are available up to 5 Tons, spans up to 20 ft, and have 360° of available rotation.

Pillar

Mast or pillar types are useful when there is not an adequate building column nearby. The mast of the jib connects to the floor and to the overhead support steel. Because of this they do apply forces to the building, but those forces often require less reinforcement steel than a tie-rod style or cantilever jib crane. Standard sizes vary up to 2 Tons, up to 20’ span, and have 360° of available rotation. Custom engineered jib cranes can increase the previously mentioned sizes.

Foundationless

Foundationless jib cranes are industrial slab-mounted systems that are bolted to reinforced concrete. They are like a base mount jib but do not require a special foundation. This type of crane can be installed anywhere within your facility where the existing concrete slab is suitable and can be easily relocated if needed. Standard sizes vary up to 1 Ton, and up to 16’ span, and have 360° of available rotation.

Portable Cranes

Portable jib cranes are like base mounted units but are fixed to a heavy steel base. This design eliminates the need for concrete footing and can easily be moved by a forklift for multiple uses. Sizes are available up to 1,000 lbs., up to 14’ span.

Wall mount jib cranes can be mounted at any height on a vertical wall or building columns where the structure permits. They are ideal for areas where floor space is limited and can quickly swing out of the way of overhead cranes. Additionally, a wall traveling jib could be installed to maximize hook coverage area compared to a conventional wall mounted jib crane. Standard sizes vary up to 3 Tons and up to 20’ span and have 180° of available rotation.

Ceiling mount jib cranes are a great option when maximizing production area below the jib is important. They provide a clear work area with no floor obstructions and maximized headroom and clearance in tight workstations. These cranes are commonly attached to a carrier running on a bridge or monorail system and have an available rotation of 360°. They are also ideal for an articulating crane and can support manipulator, balancer, or hoist.

3D View

Crane Boom Types

Tie-rod jib cranes are a simple configuration that can be made with less material than other jibs. The design is made of the main jib beam attached to a wall mounted pivot and a tie-rod above that beam which runs at approximately 30 degrees to a second wall mounted pivot. These are the lightest jib crane designs and can be found on both wall mount and pillar type cranes. Sizes vary up to 3 Ton and up to 20’ span and have 180° of available rotation.

Cantilever jib cranes are an “L” shaped weldment attached to wall mounted pivots, like those used with a tie-rod style jib. These are great for applications which have limited headroom. Capacities range up to 3 Ton and can span to 20 ft and have 180° of available rotation.

Articulating jib cranes are useful for applications which include frequent use, careful positioning, or reaching around corners or around columns. The jib boom includes a secondary pivot which results in easy movement of the load, most specifically when the load is near the main pivot. These are great when mounted to an overhead bridge crane system.  Capacities are available up to 2,000 lbs. and up to 20 ft span. The rotation is a maximum of 180 degrees for the inner arm and 360 degrees for the outer arm.

Telescoping jib cranes feature a main boom with a retractable section underneath. This design allows the boom to navigate around obstacles such as machinery and columns, making it ideal for operating in tight manufacturing spaces.  Capacities range up to 3 Ton and can spans up to 20 ft. The maximum possible rotation is 180 degrees.

3D View

Customization Options

Jib cranes can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of your facility, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. From mounting configurations to specialized control features, these customization options enhance usability, durability, and safety.

Mounting Configurations

Choose from freestanding, ceiling-mounted, wall-mounted, or portable base designs. Foundationless options are also available for certain applications.

Articulating Arms

Improve reach and maneuverability with an articulating arm that allows for greater flexibility in load positioning.

360-Degree Rotation Enhancements

Electric collector rings or air swivels enable continuous 360-degree boom rotation without cable twisting or wear.

Festooning Systems

Select from box track festooning or wire festooning to efficiently manage power and air supply lines.

Boom Locks and Rotation Stops

Limit unwanted movement by incorporating rotation stops or boom locks for controlled positioning.

Motorized Rotation

Increase efficiency with motorized rotation for precise and effortless boom movement.

Environmental Control Features

Specialty control enclosures are available to match your facility’s environment, including hazardous or washdown-rated areas.

Protective Finishes

Enhance durability with specialty paint finishes or hot dip galvanization for corrosion resistance.

Outdoor Applications

Custom designs are available for outdoor environments, ensuring structural integrity and performance in harsh conditions.

If you don’t see the customization you’re looking for, AFE Crane can design a solution to fit your specific needs. Contact us to discuss your requirements.

Gallery

Vendor Specifications

AFE utilizes a large comprehensive supply chain for materials and parts in addition to establishing long term relationships with our parts vendors. This relationship helps us to expedite parts so that your equipment can be repaired quickly.

Harrington Hoists and Cranes
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Gorbel
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  • Jib Cranes
  • Ergonomic Lifting
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  • Portable Conveyor Systems
M & W
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  • Beam Clamps
  • Gantry Crane
  • Jib Crane
Contrx Industries Inc.
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  • Bridge Cranes
  • Pallet Lifters
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FAQs

A jib crane is an overhead lifting device designed to support loads in a specific area, featuring a horizontal arm (jib) and a hoist system.

Jib cranes can typically lift loads from a few hundred pounds to several tons, depending on the model.

The span depends on the crane model, but most can accommodate spans of 5–20 feet or more.

Installation requirements include a stable foundation for freestanding models, structural wall or column support for wall-mounted models, and appropriate electrical connections.

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