Jib Crane Installation
A jib crane consists of a hoist mounted on a horizontal beam that extends well beyond, or is cantilevered from, a vertical support. The beam pivots around the support to provide the horizontal sweep of the crane.
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Sweep
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The hoist of a jib crane is mounted on a trolley that runs along the length of the beam. The path, or sweep, described by the crane is circular or semicircular; a jib crane supported by a column or post can sweep a full 360 degrees.
Safe Working Load
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Crane manufacturers issue certificates that describe the safe working load, or SWL, of each crane. The SWL should be marked on the structure of the crane during installation. Because the SWL of a jib crane decreases as the operating radius increases, it should also be fitted with an SWL indicator.
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Other Considerations
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For the sake of safety, the weight of a jib crane must be considered in relation to the load-bearing capacity of the ground on which it is installed. Similarly, overhead obstructions, such as power lines, must be identified, and safe headroom must be delimited with bunting, if necessary.
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