Jib Cranes

Jib Crane FAQs

• What is a jib crane?

  A jib crane is a lifting system consisting of a horizontal or articulated arm, known as a jib, mounted to a fixed structure. The jib allows a hoist to move loads within a defined working area, making it easier to lift, position and transfer materials. Jib cranes are commonly used in workshops, manufacturing facilities, warehouses and production environments where localised lifting is required.

• What are jib cranes used for?

  Jib cranes are used for a wide range of lifting and material handling applications, including loading and unloading, machine feeding, assembly, maintenance, production processes and repetitive lifting tasks. They are particularly useful where loads need to be moved accurately within a specific working area without requiring a larger overhead crane system.

• What types of jib cranes are available?

  We supply several types of jib crane, including free-standing jib cranes, floor-mounted jib cranes, wall-mounted jib cranes and articulated jib crane systems. The most suitable configuration will depend on factors such as the available space, required lifting capacity, working radius, lifting height and the way the crane will be used.

• What is the difference between a free-standing and wall-mounted jib crane?

  A free-standing jib crane is mounted to its own floor-mounted foundation or base, providing an independent lifting solution where suitable floor space is available. A wall-mounted jib crane is attached to an existing suitable structural wall or column and can provide an effective solution where floor space is limited. Structural suitability and installation requirements should always be assessed before selecting a mounting arrangement.

• What lifting capacity can a jib crane handle?

  Jib crane capacity varies depending on the crane design, working reach, mounting arrangement and application. We supply jib crane systems in a range of lifting capacities and can help specify a suitable system based on the required safe working load (SWL), reach and lifting height.

• How much reach can a jib crane provide?

  The working reach of a jib crane depends on the model and configuration selected. Different jib lengths and articulated arrangements are available to suit the required lifting area. When specifying a jib crane, it is important to consider not only the required reach but also the load capacity at that reach.

• Can a jib crane be supplied with an electric hoist?

  Yes. Jib cranes can be configured with suitable electric hoists for powered lifting applications. Manual and pneumatic hoist options are also available, allowing the lifting system to be matched to the required lifting speed, duty cycle, environment and application.

• Are pneumatic jib cranes available?

  Yes. We supply articulated Lifts All Flexi-Crane systems, which use pneumatic lifting technology and are designed for applications requiring smooth, lightweight and highly manoeuvrable load handling. They are particularly suited to repetitive lifting and positioning applications in environments such as automotive, pharmaceutical and manufacturing.

• Can you design a bespoke jib crane?

  Yes. We can provide bespoke jib crane solutions designed around the requirements of the application. Factors such as lifting capacity, working reach, lifting height, headroom, mounting arrangement, duty cycle and available space can all be considered when specifying a system.

• Can you install a jib crane?

  Yes. Lifting Gear Products can provide support with the design, fabrication and installation of jib crane systems. Installation requirements will depend on the type of crane, mounting arrangement and the structure or foundation to which it is being installed.

• How do I choose the right jib crane?

  Selecting the correct jib crane depends on several factors, including the weight of the loads being lifted, required lifting height, working radius, available floor or wall space, frequency of use, operating environment and required method of lifting. Our team can help assess these requirements and recommend a suitable jib crane and hoist configuration.

• Are jib cranes suitable for repetitive lifting applications?

  Yes. Jib cranes are particularly effective for repetitive lifting and positioning tasks because they provide a dedicated lifting point close to the workstation. Articulated systems such as the Lifts All Flexi-Crane can provide additional manoeuvrability and ergonomic benefits where loads need to be positioned frequently and accurately.

• Can a jib crane be used with an existing hoist?

  In some applications, a jib crane can be configured with an existing suitable hoist, provided that the hoist is compatible with the crane and the overall lifting system is correctly specified. The hoist capacity, mounting arrangement, lifting height, duty and operating conditions should all be considered before installation.

• Do jib cranes require inspection and testing?

  Yes. Jib cranes and their associated lifting equipment must be properly maintained, inspected and examined in accordance with applicable UK requirements. Depending on the equipment and its use, this can include LOLER thorough examination, inspection and testing. We also provide lifting equipment inspection and testing services to help customers maintain safe and compliant lifting operations.

• Where can jib cranes be used?

  Jib cranes are suitable for many industrial and commercial environments, including workshops, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, engineering operations, production lines, maintenance areas and assembly stations. The crane should always be selected and installed according to the specific requirements of the workplace and lifting application.

• Can Lifting Gear Products help specify a complete jib crane system?

  Yes. We can help with the specification of the jib crane, suitable hoist and associated lifting equipment based on the application. With in-house design, fabrication and installation capabilities, we can support projects ranging from standard jib crane systems through to bespoke lifting solutions.