Jib Crane

Jib Cranes for all industries

Jib cranes are a highly effective type of overhead lifting device used for repetitive lifting tasks and material handling within a defined work area. They are valued across many industries for their versatility, cost-effectiveness, and ability to operate efficiently in confined spaces where larger crane systems may not be practical. This makes them an ideal solution for workshops, warehouses, production areas, and other environments where reliable localised lifting is essential.

At the core of the system is the mast or pillar, which forms the vertical support structure and anchors the crane securely to either the floor or a wall. Extending from this is the boom, also known as the jib or arm, which provides the horizontal reach of the crane and rotates around the mast to cover the required working radius. Mounted along the boom is the trolley, which travels horizontally and carries the hoist into position. The hoist is the lifting mechanism itself and is responsible for raising and lowering the load safely and efficiently. Depending on the application, this may be an electric chain hoist, a pneumatic chain hoist, or another specialist lifting device such as a vacuum tube lifter. Working together, these components create a compact and dependable lifting solution that improves handling efficiency, supports safer operations, and helps to streamline your day-to-day industrial processes.

Enquire Today
Jib crane installation in a warehouse
Diagram of how a jib crane operates
How do jib cranes work?

Jib cranes operate with three main motions:

  1. Rotational Motion: The boom rotates around the mast, allowing the crane to cover a circular or arc-shaped work area. This rotation can range from 180 to 360 degrees, depending on the crane type and mounting.
  2. Transverse Motion: The trolley moves horizontally along the length of the boom.
  3. Lift Motion: The hoist moves the load up and down vertically.

Types of Jib Cranes:

Jib cranes come in various configurations, each suited for different applications and environments:

  • Overbraced-Underbraced Jibs
  • Column & Wall Mounted Jibs
  • Knuckle type Jib Arm
  • Telescopic Jib Arm
  • Movable Jib Crane
What is a jib crane and what are its main components?

A jib crane is a type of overhead crane used for repetitive, localised material handling tasks, typically within a workstation or small area. It features a horizontal load-bearing boom, or jib, that is cantilevered from a fixed or rotating vertical support.

The main components include:

Mast/Column: The vertical support structure (usually floor-mounted or mast-style) or the wall/building column it is attached to.

Jib/Boom: The horizontal beam that extends from the mast and carries the load.

Hoist: The mechanism (chain or wire rope) responsible for vertically lifting and lowering the load.

Trolley: The component that travels horizontally along the length of the jib/boom, carrying the hoist.

Rotation Mechanism: Allows the jib arm to swing or “slew,” providing circular (up to 360°) or semi-circular (up to 200°) coverage.

What are the main types of jib cranes?

Jib cranes are primarily categorised by their mounting style and structure, which dictates their coverage area and capacity:

Jib Crane Type Description Key Feature Rotation
Freestanding Self-supported by a mast bolted to a large concrete foundation. High capacity, highly versatile placement. Up to 360°
Mast-Style Bolted to the floor and stabilised by an upper building support (truss or beam). More cost-effective foundation than freestanding, utilising existing building structure. Up to 360°
Wall-Mounted Fixed directly to a wall or building column, requiring no floor space. Ideal for cramped or busy facilities; excellent space-saver. Up to 200°
Articulating Features two jointed arms (booms) that can pivot, allowing the boom to maneuver around obstacles and into tight spaces. Excellent precision and flexibility for machine tending or assembly. Up to 360° (outer arm)
Where are jib cranes most commonly used?

Jib cranes are widely used across various industries, providing a cost-effective and localised lifting solution in specific work zones:

  • Workstations and Assembly Lines: Moving components into production machines (like CNCs), positioning tools, or transferring small parts between stations.
  • Warehousing and Logistics: Loading and unloading items onto conveyor belts or handling materials at shipping and receiving docks.
  • Fabrication and Welding Shops: Lifting and holding heavy workpieces during cutting, welding, or assembly.
  • Maintenance and Repair: Hoisting engines, vehicle parts, or heavy equipment in service bays and workshops.

They are generally chosen when a larger, facility-spanning overhead bridge or gantry crane system is not necessary.