Jib Crane Models
Jib cranes are made up of a trolley hoist on a horizontal load-bearing boom. This boom is attached to a pivoting vertical member and up to 20 feet long. Jib cranes are able to transport loads between any areas within the boom's arc of rotation. Light duty units are utilized in warehouses and factories for loads weighing up to 5 tons. The web site BestJibCranes.com showcases the major jib crane models as being either mast mounted, free-standing or wall-mounted.
Free Standing
Free-standing jib cranes can stand alone not requiring support from the building structure. The horizontal boom in this particular situation is attached to a pivoting vertical column that is firmly anchored to the floor of the building. This type of jib crane requires a foundation made of either concrete or steel and is able to rotate a full 360 degrees.
Mast-Type
The vertical column on the mast-type jib cranes are supported by pivot points at the top and the bottom. These pivots are attached to the floor of the building and the overhead steel structure. These jib-cranes offer 360 degrees of rotation with the benefit of not requiring the massive foundation needed for free-standing units.
Wall Mounted
The wall-mounted jib cranes provide a horizontal boom which is connected to the building wall rather than the normal vertical column. These machinery offer up to 200 degrees of rotation and are great in areas where the full 360 degree rotation is not required.
Depending on how the boom is supported, there are two model varieties. One type uses a tie rod from above the boom that is attached to the wall. The other variety supports the boom from below by utilizing a cantilever brace which is also attached to the wall.