Jib crane is a unique machine which is commonly utilized in industry facilities and workshops. It consists of a rotating boom, a vertical mast and a hoist that can be either pneumatically or electrically operated. The jib crane can be mounted on a wall or on the floor, allowing the operators to make the most out of the available space. Every jib crane is compact, efficient and helps increase work flow production and the efficiency of the material handling operations. One specification that is variable is the outreach.
Jib cranes have a variable lifting capacity. It can be up to 200 tons and outreach that can be up to 50 meters. These cranes are ideal for construction works, lighter outdoor and indoor works, port areas and similar lighter lifting applications. The jib crane types which are used for handling materials usually have a lifting capacity of 5 tons and a maximum outreach of 30 meters. The jib cranes used in grabbing applications have a lifting capacity from 3 to 20 tons, and their maximum outreach can be up to 30 meters. Also, there are jib crane models used in ship yards for lifting extremely heavy equipment and machinery, which can weigh up to 300 tons. Usually, these cranes are equipped with two main hoisting winches, used one by one or together.
The biggest benefit of the jib crane is its versatility. It can be utilized for both lighter and very tough applications. Also, it is very unique in terms of motions, as the jib crane provides four motions: hoisting motion, slewing motion, long-travel motion and luffing motion.
Hoisting Motion
The hoisting motion is the one that lifts and lowers the load. This motion is achieved by steel wire ropes which are mounted on the hook of the jib crane. The wire ropes are controlled and operated by a winch system and the operator has a complete control over the operation.
Slewing Motion
The slewing motion allows rotation of the jib crane, and it is imparted to the overall upper-structure of the crane (including the jib). It enables rotation of the whole jib crane, and enables the jib crane to shift the load line while rotating around.
Long-Travel Motion
The long-travel motion is required in case when the whole jib crane structure needs to be transported to a distant place.
Luffing Motion
The last one, the luffing motion enables the jib to move vertically, so that the angle of the jib can easily be changed in order to bring the load line closer or further off the center of the jib crane.
