How to choose a jib hoist: rated load, tripod or support

A jib hoist is used to lift materials on building sites, in workshops or in warehouses with a motorised winch on a swivelling arm. The choice starts from the rated load, from 100 to 800 kg in the collection, and from the power supply: 230 V single-phase or 230/400 V. Then you look at the lifting speed (from 14 to 35 m/min) and the support: jib on scaffolding or column, tripod, trestle stand.

The types

• Jib hoist: it is fixed to scaffolding or a column and lifts while projecting beyond the edge. Examples: the DM 100E, the DM 200 Condor and the DM 200APE, all Iori Officine.
• Tripod hoist: it stands on three legs, with no need to fix anything. Examples: the DM 300 AP Elefantino, the Gruetta GT 350 and the Gruetta GT 500 / GM 500.
• Trestle-stand hoist: such as the DT 800D, whose name recalls the 800 kg, the highest rated load in the collection.
• Jib supports: such as the Fervi 0236 jib support for hoists, on which to hang a chain hoist.
• Accessories: bucket holders, conical and trapezoidal skips, B1, B2 and extendable jibs, winches. The skips have a capacity between 40 and 90 litres.

The brands present are Iori Officine, Imer Group, Fervi, Unimec and A.M.E.S. srl. In this collection you will find both complete machines and individual parts: supports, skips and bucket holders are chosen to suit the winch you already have.

How to choose by job

The features to look at

• Nominal rated load: 100, 200, 300, 350 or 800 kg in the collection. Choose one above the heaviest load you will move, with a margin.
• Lifting speed: from 14 to 35 m/min. High if you have to do many cycles, low for the heaviest loads.
• Motor power: from 0.3 to 2.8 kW. It goes together with the rated load: a higher rated load means more power.
• Voltage and current: 230 V or 230/400 V, with current from 2.2 to 9.6 A. Check that your installation can handle the absorbed current and that the line is suitable.
• Winch mass: from 15 to 165 kg. It matters for transport and for the support, which has to carry it.
• Outreach: some jibs reach 1,200 mm. This is needed to clear the edge of the scaffolding.
• Skips and bucket holders: they weigh from 3 to 25 kg and have a capacity of 40-90 litres (for example 52, 39 or 90 L). Add their weight to that of the material and stay below the rated load.

Common mistakes

• Choosing the rated load for the load alone, not for the load plus the skip. The weight of the skip counts.
• Fixing the hoist to unsuitable scaffolding. Check anchorages and stability before loading.
• Forgetting the power supply. A 400 V motor will not run from a 230 V socket.
• Neglecting inspections. Rope or chain, hook, brake and limit switches must be checked regularly.
• Hooking on without the safety catch. The load goes in the bucket holder or on a hook with a safety catch.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a jib, a tripod and a trestle stand?

The jib is fixed to scaffolding or a column; tripods and trestle stands stand up on their own and can be moved.

What rated load should I choose for a mortar bucket?

A low rated load, 100-200 kg, is enough for buckets. Always check the total weight including the skip.

230 V or 230/400 V?

It depends on the motor and the installation. The data sheets give the voltage of each model: choose according to what you have on site.

What do I check every time before using it?

Anchorages and stability of the support, rope or chain, hook with safety catch, brake and limit switches. Then the area under the load: it must be clear.

Do I need a bucket holder?

For masonry and mortar yes, and for safety too: it keeps the bucket steady during the lift.

You will find all the models and accessories in the Electric Hoists and Jib Hoists with Accessories collection: to choose the rated load and support, ask the AMES technicians for a quote or advice.