A folding jib crane is a type of material handling device that’s designed with an articulated, or “folding,” arm. Unlike a traditional jib crane with a single rigid arm, this crane’s arm has two sections connected by a pivot point. This design allows the arm to be folded back, giving it a compact footprint when not in use.
How It Works
The crane consists of a vertical column that’s bolted to the floor or wall, a horizontal arm (the jib) that rotates around the column, and a hoist that travels along the jib. The folding action comes from the articulated joint in the arm itself. The hoist can be moved along both sections of the jib, giving it access to a wider range of the workspace, including areas that might be blocked by obstacles.
Key Features
- Folding Arm: The articulated arm can be folded back on itself, allowing the crane to be positioned closer to walls or equipment without obstructing the workspace.
- Larger Work Envelope: The jointed design allows the crane to reach around corners and into areas that a straight-arm crane couldn’t access, making it more versatile.
- Compact Storage: When not in use, the crane can be folded up to save valuable floor space.
Applications
Folding jib cranes are commonly used in machine shops, welding bays, and assembly lines where a large work area is needed but floor space is limited. They are ideal for serving multiple machines or workstations with a single crane, as the folding arm can reach around and between obstacles.
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Post time: Nov-10-2025