Pillar Mounted vs Wall Mounted Jib Cranes: Which to Choose?

Among the various types available, two of the most commonly compared models are the pillar mounted jib crane and the wall mounted jib crane. While both serve the same fundamental purpose—localized lifting support—they differ significantly in design, installation requirements, and operational flexibility.

If you're in the process of selecting a jib crane for your facility, this guide will help you compare pillar mounted and wall mounted jib cranes in terms of features, applications, and suitability for specific environments.

To view the full spectrum of available crane types, browse Aardwolf's range of Types of Jib Cranes.

Understanding the Basics: What Are Jib Cranes?

Jib cranes are versatile lifting devices that consist of a horizontal boom (jib) which supports a lifting mechanism such as a hoist or vacuum lifter. The jib is attached either to a wall, pillar, or floor-mounted column and is designed to rotate, enabling the crane to move loads across a designated circular or semi-circular work area.

Jib cranes are categorized based on how they are mounted—commonly into wall-mounted, pillar-mounted (also called column-mounted), freestanding, ceiling mounted, and articulating types.

For an in-depth look at the structural differences between crane systems, read The difference between crane and jib cranes

Pillar Mounted Jib Cranes: Power and Independence

A pillar mounted jib crane (also known as a column-mounted jib crane) is a self-supporting system that is bolted directly to a concrete foundation. This type offers 360-degree continuous rotation and is typically used for medium to heavy-duty lifting in areas where maximum flexibility and load coverage are required.

Key Features of Pillar Mounted Jib Cranes

• Full rotational range (360°) for maximum coverage
• Independent of building structure, making them ideal for open spaces or outdoor use
• Higher load capacities compared to wall-mounted models
• Compatible with electric and manual hoists, air balancers, and vacuum lifters

Ideal Applications

• Central material handling stations
• Outdoor work zones
• Heavy component manufacturing
• Warehouse loading bays

Wall Mounted Jib Cranes: Space-Saving Efficiency

A wall mounted jib crane is affixed to an existing structural wall or building column and offers a 180-degree swing arc. This type is best suited for areas where floor space is limited and moderate lifting tasks are performed near walls or production lines.

Key Features of Wall Mounted Jib Cranes

• 180° rotation for efficient load coverage along walls
• Minimal floor obstruction, allowing forklifts and carts to move freely
• Lower installation cost, as no foundation work is required
• Perfect for lighter lifting in confined areas

Ideal Applications

• Workstations along building walls
• Assembly lines
• Fabrication stations with limited space
• Retrofit material handling

Side-by-Side Comparison: Pillar Mounted vs Wall Mounted Jib Cranes

Choosing the Right Crane for Your Needs

The right jib crane depends on the layout of your facility, the weight of materials handled, and the workflow requirements of your operations.

Choose a Pillar Mounted Jib Crane If:

• You need a full 360° rotation and wide coverage area
• You operate in a large open space or outdoors
• You handle heavy or bulky loads frequently
• Structural walls are unavailable or cannot support load stress

Choose a Wall Mounted Jib Crane If:

• Floor space is restricted
• You need a cost-effective lifting solution
• You are handling light to moderate weights
• Structural walls or columns are available and strong enough

Want to explore additional options such as ceiling mounted or articulating jib cranes? Read more on The key role of Jib Cranes

Installation Considerations

Pillar Mounted Jib Crane Installation

Installing a pillar-mounted model requires a properly designed concrete foundation. The base must be capable of withstanding both static and dynamic forces generated during lifting operations. You may need to factor in:

• Reinforced concrete at least 1 meter deep
• Chemical anchor bolts or base plate anchoring
• Installation time and floor planning

Wall Mounted Jib Crane Installation

For wall-mounted units, the wall or support column must be capable of absorbing the rotational and vertical load forces. While less complex than pillar installations, it's critical to:

• Assess the wall’s structural integrity
• Use appropriate mounting brackets and fasteners
• Ensure clearance for boom swing and hoist travel

For a full guide, refer to Aardwolf’s step-by-step article on how to Install a jib crane

Expanding Your Lifting Capabilities

Still undecided between the two? Consider combining your primary jib crane with other systems like:

• A freestanding jib crane in the center of your warehouse for multi-bay coverage
• A ceiling mounted jib crane in cleanrooms or facilities with no floor clearance
• An articulating jib crane for maneuvering loads around machinery or corners

Each crane type is engineered for specific applications, and the best performance often comes from integrating multiple systems within your material handling strategy.

Final Thoughts

Both pillar mounted and wall mounted jib cranes offer unique advantages, and the best choice ultimately depends on your facility’s layout, load requirements, and space availability.

• If you prioritize versatility and heavy lifting, the pillar mounted jib crane delivers robust, independent performance.
• If you require space efficiency and cost savings, the wall mounted model offers dependable support for lighter lifting operations.

Investing in the right type of jib crane ensures long-term safety, productivity, and workflow efficiency in your material handling operations.

To explore specifications, load capacities, and mounting options, visit Aardwolf’s complete collection of Types of Jib Cranes

References

1.     How to operate a Jib Cranes safely

2.     What is a Jib Crane?

3.     Over brace jib crane wall mounted

4.     Wall mounted Jib Crane

5.     Is a Jib Crane a Gantry Crane

6.     Articulated Jib Crane Wall Mounted

7.     Where is Jib Crane used?

8.     Manual Counterbalance Crane

9.     Floor Mounted Jib Crane

10.  Over Braced Jib Crane Column Mounted

11.  Powered counterbalance Crane

12.  Portable Gantry Crane