Jib cranes and overhead cranes are essential tools for efficiently moving stone slabs in and out of stone machinery. Jib cranes, with their extended arms and pivoting capabilities, offer precise control and flexibility, allowing operators to position heavy stone slabs accurately at various angles and heights.
On the other hand, overhead cranes, with their rail-mounted systems, can cover larger areas and lift substantial weights, making them ideal for handling multiple slabs or large blocks with ease.
Together, these cranes enhance productivity and safety in stone processing environments by streamlining the transportation and placement of cumbersome materials.
What Is a Jib Crane Used for?
Jib cranes have the ability to extend and rotate, allowing for accurate positioning of heavy stone slabs and better maneuverability without unnecessary strain or risk. This precision not only enhances safety by reducing manual handling but also improves workflow efficiency, as slabs can be quickly and effectively transferred between different workstations or machinery. Overall, jib cranes streamline the fabrication process, contributing to a more productive and safer work environment.
What Is a Jib?
The “jib” on a jib crane is the horizontal or angled arm that extends from the crane’s vertical support structure, known as the mast or column. The jib is the part of the crane that supports and moves the load, allowing it to swing and pivot around the mast. This arm can be fixed or adjustable, depending on the crane’s design. The jib’s length and angle determine the range and reach of the crane, enabling it to lift and position loads with precision. By rotating and extending, the jib facilitates efficient handling of materials, such as stone slabs, within its operational radius.
Different Types of Jib Crane Systems
Choosing the right type of jib crane system depends on the weight and span capacities required, the amount of floor space or the floor layout of your operations, and if your operations would benefit from rotating or articulating motions.
The different types of crane systems include:
Freestanding Jib Cranes – These are permanent installations where the crane mast or other baseplate supports are secured within the concrete during the pouring phase of installation.
Foundation-less Jib Cranes – This system mounts the crane base plates to a 6″ reinforced concrete slab. These systems are faster to install and can support weights of up to 1000 pounds.
Mast Jib Crane – When a structural concrete base system is not possible, this crane uses an overhead steel beam structure to support the crane and jib. These cranes are extremely tough, reaching up to 40 feet in both horizontal span and vertical height.
Wall-mounted Jib Cranes – When individual work bays require independent lift systems, a wall-mounted jib crane uses the structural wall to support a monorail or overhead bridge crane. Often, an articulating jib is mounted on the crane that add swivel motions to reach under, around, or into containers or storage areas.
Cantilever Mast Cranes – These jib systems are have a smaller footprint and depend on a cantilevered beam support arm to lift materials or equipment located below the mast.
Learn More About BACA’s Heavy Lifting Solutions
Visit BACA Systems online to discover how our heavy lifting and robotic solutions can increase your productivity, decrease manpower, and grow revenue for your stone fabrication business. At BACA Systems, we have the solutions to streamline your in-house processing with fully automated cutting line equipment.