JIB Cranes
Jib cranes are a subset of cranes that have a jib or boom attached to support a moveable hoist.
Jib cranes are some of the most versatile types of cranes, supporting a variety of capabilities and design options. Typically, industrial jib cranes are used in applications where a lifting solution is needed for operation in a small area or within a large industrial facility that has limited space available.
Compared to other types of cranes, jib cranes are simple to operate, offer more ergonomic lifting capabilities, and require less maintenance because they have fewer operational components.
Industrial jib cranes come in a variety of options and at J.Herbert Corporation, we can supply you with the exact jib crane you need for your material handling application.
A Simple and Easy Guide to Assist You
A jib crane will increase workflow production by improving material handling efficiency. Giving consideration to the following parameters will help you correctly specify the jib crane required for your application.
1. Capacity
What is the maximum weight of the load to be lifted? (Generally, the lifting capacity of your jib crane will always be higher than its weight)
2. Boom Rotation
Free standing jib cranes offer up to 360° rotation and wall mounted types offer up to 180° rotation.
3. Jib Boom Outreach
The distance measured from the boom pivot point and usually stated in the following terms:
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Boom span – the distance out to the boom tip
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Hook reach – the distance to the farthest lifting point
4. Jib Crane Height
The distance measured from the floor and usually stated in the following terms:
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Overall height – the distance to its highest point
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Height under boom – which is self-explanatory
5. Under Boom Height
Distance from the floor to the underside of the boom, which will determine the type of hoist required.
6. Installation
Free standing jib cranes must be erected on a poured concrete foundation or onto a substantially thick, reinforced concrete slab.
Wall mounted jib cranes can be installed on many types of steel columns such as a wide flange beam or hollow structural tubing or even monolithic poured concrete columns and walls.
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.
JIB Crane vs Gantry Crane
There are many kinds of cranes, and they all have a specific purpose. Using the wrong crane is inefficient and could also be dangerous. Understanding things like what makes a gantry crane and a jib crane different is essential. The main difference is the number of points of contact with the anchor.
A jib crane contacts the anchor at one point where the crane extends. Additionally, a jib crane is typically attached to the ground or another anchor for balance. You can also design a portable jib crane. For example, a jib crane can be detachable and mounted on a base so you can move it to other locations.
On the other hand, a gantry crane anchors on both ends, with a horizontal beam between the supports. A gantry crane is usually mounted on wheels to easily roll to different locations. Companies typically use a gantry crane to lift a load straight up and move it using a trolley and a chain hoist.
Ultimately, a jib crane is not as portable as a gantry crane. However, a jib crane is better for working in tight spaces. They can move in a straight line like a gantry crane, but they can also pivot. Additionally, you can use a jib crane with a power winch to lift loads to higher locations like loading docks and roofs.
While both types of cranes are useful, it's vital to know which to use for a specific job. Maybe you're wondering which is better for the application you have in mind. At J. Herbert Corporation, cranes are our business.
We provide efficient and knowledgeable customer service with hundreds of years of combined experience. You can contact us online. Or get in touch via phone to find out how we can help.