Tasked with lifting and shifting heavy loads, all cranes must be securely attached to some sort of foundation.
Jib cranes are one of the most common types of crane. They feature a horizontal beam (AKA jib) that extends out from a central pivot point, and swings in a arc from that central point. Jib cranes form an ideal material handling solution in a number of situations, including workshops, warehouses, distribution centres and production facilities.
Can I mount a jib crane on the wall?
Yes, the wall of your building can be used as a jib crane mount. Wall jib cranes generally feature heavy-duty mounting brackets that allow you to bolt the crane directly onto a wall or pillar in your facility.
Wall-mounted is one of two main jib crane mount options. The other is column-mounted: freestanding cranes that come with their own pillar or column, which is bolted or concreted into the ground.
If you choose to install a wall-mounted jib crane, you will need to check with a professional engineer to ensure that your preferred mounting spot is capable of handling the weight and stress that a fully-loaded jib arm will impart on the structure.
Benefits of a wall-mounted jib crane
If your building has a suitable place to mount the jib crane, this option offers a wealth of benefits:
- Maximise floor space: By mounting your jib crane on the wall, you don’t take up any floor space whatsoever, granting you more storage capacity, or more room for the safe and efficient movement of workers and goods.
- Cost-effective: As a relatively simple material handling solution, wall-mounted jib cranes can be a cost-effective crane to purchase and install. Fewer parts also mean minimal maintenance requirements.
- Efficient operation: The beam, trolley and hoist configuration of a wall-mounted jib crane is quick and easy to use, allowing goods to flow efficiently through your facility.
- Increased safety: Wall-mounted jib cranes reduce the need for manual handling and totally remove the risk of a forklift or worker colliding with the pillars and columns of freestanding jib cranes.
How to mount a jib crane on the wall
The installation of even a small wall-mounted jib crane is best left to the professionals, to ensure the crane is safe to use, and all relevant rules and regulations are met. But generally speaking, the process plays out as follows:
- Select a spot: Identify a potential mounting spot for your jib crane. Consult with an expert to ensure the wall or pillar is capable of taking the weight of a fully-loaded crane.
- Install the wall bracket: Mount the bracket on the wall or a supporting column. Make sure it is mounted at a height that allows it to clear any obstacles in the immediate area. Ensure it is perfectly vertical, so that the jib arm is perfectly horizontal.
- Mount the jib arm: Mount the jib arm on the bracket. Tighten all bolts according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Install the hoist and trolley: Mount the hoist and trolley on the jib arm, then install and test the electrical wiring and controls before putting the crane into service.
Helping New Zealand manufacturers safely solve their lifting challenges with the best local and global solutions
At Stratalign we’ve spent years helping New Zealand businesses identify and secure the lifting equipment they need. Our team has the knowledge and expertise to identify and install your ideal wall-mounted jib crane, to help you work more efficiently, productively and safely than ever before.
Our solutions are customised to your needs and wants, and are designed to last. We offer a complete range of jib cranes, all of which are certified to AS 1418.1.
