Lifting gear, encompassing cranes and jibs, plays a crucial role in various industries by facilitating the lifting, lowering, and moving of heavy loads. This article delves into the most commonly used types of larger lifting gear, their applications, and the nuances of their operation.
Lifting gear, also known as lifting equipment, refers to devices used for lifting, lowering, and moving heavy loads. This category includes cranes, jibs, and safety devices essential for lifting operations or working at heights. All lifting gear must come with test certification, declarations of conformity, and safety guidelines. Reputable suppliers provide these as standard.
When people think of lifting gear, cranes often come to mind first. Cranes vary significantly in size and design, from the massive cranes seen in dockyards to those used on construction sites.
Dockyard cranes are essential for loading containers onto ships and for shipbuilding and repair. These cranes are designed to handle extremely heavy loads and operate in harsh maritime environments.
On construction sites, cranes are indispensable for lifting heavy materials to required heights. For instance, they are used to hoist roof trusses and other structural components. According to the International Crane Foundation, the global crane market was valued at $33.5 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2021 to 2028 (source).
A less commonly seen but widely used type of crane is the mobile gantry crane, also known as a lifting gantry or A-frame gantry. These cranes are portable, often equipped with heavy-duty castors, making them ideal for smaller factories and various industrial settings where a fixed crane is impractical.
A mobile gantry crane consists of two "A" shaped steel end frames connected by a steel "H" shaped cross beam. A trolley and hoist are attached to the cross beam to lift loads. Their portability allows them to be used in different areas within a facility, providing flexibility in operations.
Jib cranes, sometimes referred to as swing jibs, are fixed cranes mounted on a column, wall, or floor. They are designed to lift loads within a specific radius, making them ideal for precise lifting tasks.
The jib's arm, or boom, is welded to a vertical structure and can be either underbraced or overbraced for additional strength. Overbraced jib cranes offer more space below the arm, while underbraced cranes provide more room above the arm, making them suitable for areas with limited headroom. The boom can rotate up to 360 degrees, either manually or motorized, depending on the model.
Jib cranes are commonly used in warehouses, car garages for engine removal, and dockside operations. They are also prevalent in manufacturing industries. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global jib crane market is projected to reach $3.2 billion by 2025, growing at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2020 (source).
In addition to cranes and jibs, other devices like hoists and chain blocks are often necessary for lifting operations. These devices provide the actual lifting power and can be used in conjunction with cranes and jibs to enhance their functionality.
Hoists are mechanical devices used to lift and lower loads. They can be manually operated, electrically powered, or pneumatically driven. Hoists are essential in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and warehousing.
Chain blocks, also known as chain hoists, are used for lifting heavy loads by pulling a chain. They are commonly used in workshops, garages, and construction sites for tasks that require precise lifting and positioning.
Lifting gear, including cranes, jibs, hoists, and chain blocks, is essential for various industrial applications. Understanding the different types of lifting gear and their specific uses can help businesses choose the right equipment for their needs. With the global lifting equipment market expected to grow significantly in the coming years, staying informed about the latest advancements and trends is crucial for maintaining operational efficiency and safety.
For more information on lifting gear and its applications, visit Lifting Gear Direct and Grand View Research.
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