An articulating jib crane is used specifically helps to position loads in those places where access is awkward and other locations that cannot be reached using the traditional jibs. The jibs have the capability to place a load in spots that are around obstructions, corners or columns, reach our under containers or machinery, place loads through doorways, and provide circular coverage. Different types of jib cranes can be mounted on floors, walls, ceilings or even bridge cranes according to the requirement.

Ceiling-mounted jib cranes are specifically installed in locations that do not have much room, or crowded shops and buildings with low ceilings. These jib cranes offer more clearance in such spaces. They are cheaper to install than freestanding jibs because they do not need expensive steel support structures as in the former case. They can be used in applications where accuracy and precision matter and jibs can easily reach out into or under machines. 

Jib cranes that are wall/column -mounted can be used where a single worker needs complete access to one jib crane. Wall-mounted cranes leave no obstructions on the floor and provide a clear work area. These jib cranes can also be installed in locations with tight spaces. The inner and outer arms are designed to rotate at different angle spans to offer the reach into difficult spaces (usually about 200-degree rotation for inner and 360-degree rotation for outer arm). However, these jibs are not suited for metal-fabricating facilities where control and precision are important. They can be used to swing loads under obstructions.

Freestanding jib cranes can be installed or positioned anywhere according to the requirement. The articulating jibs may be reinforced on concrete floors for purposes of stability under heavy loads. Freestanding articulating jibs have a 360-degree rotation span for the inner and outer arms. This helps to reach out into confined spaces. Bridge-mounted jib cranes help to supplement the lifting system that is currently in place. Some of them have options for internally piped air or electricity to manipulate hook mounted lifting devices attached to the end of the boom.

The jibs are designed to support different types of manipulators, balancers and hoists. Jib cranes are designed to lift a range of loads (as an example, 150 lbs to 5000 lbs). Some of them come with optional accessories that can be installed to optimise the reach and span. An elbow or knuckle fitted into a jib crane allows for greater manoeuvrability, say into the corner of a room. An under-braced jib crane helps to increase the height of the lift when headroom is limited.

An articulating jib crane offers the advantage that it takes up very little space and helps facilities use the available floor space efficiently thereby increasing the return on investment. It can be used to supplement larger overhead crane systems and increase the worker utilization factor. Jib cranes are economically advantageous as they improve workers’ safety, reduce manufacturing costs and maximise productivity. Jib cranes are the best solution for size-restricted and isolated work areas that require the use of an overhead lift system.