Choosing the correct Jib crane

Posted : Thursday 7th July 2011


Below we have listed various chief information for you to help select the correct Jib crane for you, installing and commissioning, how to store and handle the Jib cranes, and practical safety information.

This information is of a common kind only covering the basic points for the safe slewing of Jib cranes, It is probably essential to complement this information for exact purposes. 

Finding the CORRECT jib crane FOR your NEEDS:- 

Jib cranes can be found in a variety of capacities,  sizes and style options, select the Jib to be used and plan the lift taking the following into consideration:-

 Type of Jib crane- underbraced, overbraced, floor or wall mounted, capacity, height and length.

 Slew- angle of slew, 360°, 180°,  or other push/pull, hand geared or power slewing.

 Type of block and trolley to be used

 The requirement for slewing stops. 

INSTALLING

Stick to precise advice for erection issued by your dealer (better still get them to install it) as these will change with the design used.

The general safety and stability of your Jib crane will depend on its foundations or supports. Whilst erecting to an existing structure it is crucial that the superimposed forces are assessed by a qualified engineer.

Likewise free standing Jib cranes must be installed onto a suitable foundation and a suitably trained person needs to be consulted, In the case of the Jib crane being clamped to upright structural members, measures should be taken to prevent the clamp fixings from sliding downwards. 

At all times:-

 Store and handle Jib cranes properly.

 Inspect the Jib crane, block and accessories before use as well as before putting in storage.

 Position Jib arm so that the lifting machine is exactly above the load.

 Take the weight of the load gently.

 Ensure the travel pathway free from debris prior to slewing the crane.

 Push rather than pull the load when slewing the Jib arm.

 

In no way:-

Shock or side load Jib cranes.

 Attempt to drag loads over the ground.

 Allow persons to pass below suspended loads.

 Place ladders or climb on unrestrained Jib arms.

 

STORING AND HANDLING JIB CRANES:-

 When not in employ Jib cranes must be positioned in order not to present a hazard to persons, goods, vehicles and so on. within the area.

It is often required to secure the Jib arm to prevent movement taking place as a result of winds etc.

If the Jib crane isn't in frequent use it is recommended to remove the lifting  device for separate storage, wherever it is impracticable or desirable the device should be  parked wherever it is not going to cause a hazard.

 

Above all remember these fundamental points;

USING JIB CRANES SAFELY:-

1.            Do NOT under any circumstances use defective Jib cranes, blocks or accessories.

2.            Avoid swinging loads, and push other than pull on suspended loads.

3.            You should not let trolleys smash into into the stops as the load may whip outwards consequently increasing the effective radius and therefore the resultant loads imposed on the mechanisms and structure.

4.            Before moving the Jib arm or the suspended load make sure you  have a clear sight of your travel route and that it is free of any obstructions.

5.            Position the Jib arm carefully, the block hook must be directly over the centre of gravity of the load.

6.            Don't use the Jib arm or appliance to pull loads along.

7.            Capture the load gently and steer clear of shock loads.

8.            Similar care is needed whilst lowering loads as sudden loading/unloading may cause the Jib arm to whip.

 

IN-SERVICE INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE:-

1.            The maintenance requirements may be combined with those of the lifting appliance.

2.            The running surface of the track must be kept clean and free of rubbish.

3.            Regularly inspect the jib crane and in the occurrence of the following disorders, submit the jib crane to a competent person for thorough examination and repair as required.  

                Structural defects

                Damage

                Distortion or cracked welds

                Loose or absent bolts

                Damaged or missing runway end stops

                Problems in slewing or jib arm slews on it's own

                Any other visible defects or operational difficulties 

4.            Bolts and fixings need to be checked to ensure they're tight and if needed re-torqued.

5.            Grease bearings in addition to pivot points

6.            Where the slewing movement is provided through manual gears or powered drive, the geared wheels and drives need to be kept in excellent order and properly oiled.

 

Tagged as: Jib crane, jib cranes, swing jib, swing jib crane

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