| What is a luffing jib crane? |
A tower crane with a pivoting jib that moves upward and downward to change the working radius. |
The variable-radius jib helps the crane operate on congested construction sites and in areas with restricted airspace. |
| Typical lifting capacity |
Approximately 4 to 32 metric tonnes, depending on the crane configuration and rated load moment. |
Capacity should be checked at both the maximum radius and the minimum radius, not only at the headline maximum load. |
| Maximum working radius |
Common configurations provide approximately 30 to 60 metres of maximum radius. |
The required radius determines the jib length, foundation design, counterweight arrangement and available lifting capacity. |
| Minimum working radius |
Often approximately 10 to 20 metres, depending on the jib angle and model design. |
A shorter operating radius can reduce oversailing risks and improve clearance from nearby buildings. |
| Typical maximum free-standing height |
Approximately 30 to 60 metres, depending on the tower section, wind conditions and site configuration. |
Projects requiring greater height may need tie-ins to the structure or an engineered climbing arrangement. |
| Jib movement |
Hydraulic or electric luffing systems raise and lower the jib; the exact operating speed varies by design. |
Smooth and accurately controlled luffing improves load placement in confined or high-density work zones. |
| Slewing range |
Many tower crane configurations provide 360-degree slewing around the tower axis. |
Full rotation allows access to multiple work areas, subject to site boundaries and oversailing regulations. |
| Drive system |
Electric motors are commonly used for hoisting, slewing, trolleying or luffing functions. |
Buyers should verify the required voltage, frequency, control system and available site power before ordering. |
| Installation options |
Common options include fixed-base, climbing, anchored, traveling-base and foundation-mounted configurations. |
The installation method affects civil works, transport planning, erection time and project cost. |
| Common applications |
High-rise buildings, urban construction, industrial plants, infrastructure projects, power facilities and shipyards. |
Luffing jib cranes are especially suitable where several cranes operate close together or where airspace is limited. |
| Wind considerations |
The crane requires manufacturer-defined operating and out-of-service wind limits based on its design and site conditions. |
Wind data, anemometer functions, storm procedures and free-slewing requirements must be included in the safety plan. |
| Applicable standards |
Potential requirements include local construction regulations and recognized crane standards such as EN 14439, ISO 4301 or ASME B30.3, where applicable. |
The required standard depends on the country, project contract, inspection authority and intended use. |
| Control and safety features |
Typical systems may include overload protection, load-moment limitation, height and radius limits, anti-collision functions and emergency stop controls. |
Safety equipment should match the site risk assessment and be compatible with local inspection requirements. |
| Manufacturer evaluation criteria |
Assess engineering documentation, testing procedures, spare-parts support, operator training, service coverage and export experience. |
A technically suitable crane can still create project delays if documentation, maintenance support or replacement parts are unavailable. |
| Documents to request |
Load charts, general arrangement drawings, foundation loads, electrical data, manuals, inspection certificates, test records and spare-parts lists. |
Complete documentation supports design approval, customs clearance, installation and safe operation. |
| Best suited site condition |
Sites with restricted swing space, nearby structures, multiple cranes or strict limits on oversailing. |
A luffing jib crane may provide better site control than a flat-top or hammerhead configuration in dense urban areas. |