How to Choose a Jib Crane Over a Hoist or Davit Arm

Among the various lifting tools available—such as hoists and davit arms—jib cranes stand out for their superior versatility, capacity, and adaptability in a wide range of industries. But when exactly should you choose a jib crane over other lifting solutions like a hoist or davit arm?

In this guide, we’ll explore the technical and operational benefits of jib cranes, identify key use cases where they outperform their alternatives, and provide tips for selecting the right model for your facility.

Understanding Jib Cranes and Their Advantages

Jib cranes are material handling devices featuring a horizontal arm (called a boom or jib) mounted to a vertical support. The boom rotates around the mast, allowing for radial coverage of a designated workspace. They can be freestanding, wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, pillar-mounted, or articulating, depending on the facility’s layout and operational needs.

For more information on available configurations, refer to this Jib Cranes specification guide.

Key Advantages of Jib Cranes

• 360° or 180° Rotation: Depending on the type, jib cranes offer partial or full rotation for flexible positioning.

• High Load Capacity: Suitable for lifting from 125 kg to several tons.

• Customizable Arm Length and Height: Adaptable to specific workspace layouts.

• Improved Ergonomics: Reduces manual lifting and enhances operator safety.

• Floor Space Optimization: Especially for wall- or ceiling-mounted models.

Comparison: Jib Cranes vs Hoists vs Davit Arms

When to Choose Jib Cranes Over Hoists or Davit Arms

1. Repetitive Lifting in Confined Work Cells

In small workshops or fabrication environments, wall mounted jib cranes are often installed alongside machinery to lift parts into position without needing floor space. One notable solution is the Wall-mounted Jib Crane , a compact and powerful model ideal for localized lifting applications.

Use Case: A metal fabrication plant in Victoria integrated this crane into their cutting station, achieving a 30% reduction in handling time for metal sheets.

2. Complex or Obstructed Workspaces

In environments filled with machinery or structural beams, an articulating jib crane with its dual-pivot arm can navigate around obstructions. Aardwolf’s Articulated Jib Crane Wall Mounted is a popular choice in assembly lines and automotive workshops.

Use Case: An automotive assembly facility in Melbourne used this model to precisely install engine blocks in tight engine bays with just one operator.

3. Freestanding Solutions for Versatile Operations

For facilities without adequate wall or ceiling support, freestanding jib cranes offer unmatched flexibility. These cranes are anchored to a concrete foundation and can rotate 360°, making them suitable for packaging, palletizing, or CNC machine loading zones.

Use Case: A logistics center in Brisbane installed a freestanding jib crane to speed up palletizing. Its independent design required no structural modification.

Jib Cranes and Structural Integration

Before choosing a jib crane, it’s essential to evaluate the facility’s structural integrity and the operational footprint available. Ceiling-mounted and wall-mounted variants are ideal for space-restricted facilities but require careful planning and installation.

Check this step-by-step guide to ensure proper setup and safety compliance.

When to Choose Hoists or Davit Arms Instead

Despite their versatility, jib cranes aren’t always the most suitable option. In scenarios where:

• Only vertical movement is required

• The load is minimal (e.g., < 100 kg)

• The lift must extend over a balcony, trench, or ship deck

—hoists or davit arms may offer more compact or portable alternatives.

However, they fall short in:

• Radius and flexibility of movement

• Repeatability in industrial tasks

• Safety and automation integration

Additional Buying Considerations

Load Capacity

Match the crane's WLL (Working Load Limit) with the heaviest object it must lift.

Radius and Height

Calculate your working radius and lifting height based on machinery layout and overhead clearance. See this Jib Crane dimensions resource for detailed examples.

Rotation Needs

180° may suffice for wall-mounted units, but many applications benefit from full 360° freedom.

Environmental Factors

Consider weatherproofing, corrosion-resistant materials, or explosion-proof features depending on your industry.

Summary: Choosing the Right Tool for the Right Job

Final Thoughts

When operational efficiency, safety, and flexibility are key, jib cranes offer superior performance over hoists and davit arms in most industrial applications. From freestanding units on warehouse floors to wall-mounted cranes in tight workshops, Aardwolf delivers a complete lineup tailored to the demands of modern manufacturing and logistics environments.

Explore available Jib Cranes specification and learn the difference between jib cranes and overhead cranes to make an informed purchase.

Have questions about which jib crane model is right for your facility? Reach out to Aardwolf’s technical team for tailored recommendations and installation guidance.

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