Pipe-Type Jib Crane

A pipe-type jib crane is built on a vertical column that carries the arm. Being independent of any wall, it can be placed anywhere on the floor.

Free positioning

On wall-mounted models the arm position is limited by the geometry of the building: the crane is wherever the wall is. On a pipe-type model only the foundation decides. Wherever the column is concreted, that is where the working circle forms.

This flexibility is decisive for machines far from walls, welding stations in open areas and assembly cells whose layout may change over time. When a cell is rearranged, the crane can move with a new foundation.

The foundation: the real item of the project

The column transfers the entire overturning moment from the load at the hook into the foundation. As the arm lengthens and capacity rises, that moment grows quickly, and foundation size grows with it. In practice the foundation can weigh more heavily in the cost of a pipe-type jib than the steelwork does.

Ground bearing pressure, reinforcement arrangement and anchor bolt layout are calculated together. Setting the column directly on an existing floor slab is usually not sufficient; a separate foundation excavation is required.

Slew and reach

Where nothing obstructs it, 360-degree slew can be provided — an advantage wall-mounted models cannot offer. Arm length and capacity follow the part to be handled and the furthest point to be reached.

The column itself is an obstacle: the hook cannot approach the column axis. The inner edge of the working circle is therefore taken into account when planning.

Applications

Open-yard welding stations, machine groups away from walls, loading points for containers and drums, maintenance areas, assembly cells needing temporary installation.