Jib configurations explained: more reach, a different chart.

1. Three kinds of jib

Mechanical (fixed) jib

A lattice or box section pins to the boom head at a permitted offset. It can add reach for lighter loads, but its model, installation, and rating must match the crane. Confirm the actual jib offered with the unit rather than assuming a generic mechanical jib is compatible.

Hydraulic telescopic jib

A jib with its own hydraulic extension sections, so it telescopes out from the boom tip under power. Reach becomes adjustable from the remote without stopping to re-pin.

Hydraulic luffing jib

A telescopic jib can also have a hydraulically adjustable angle relative to the main boom. The permitted range depends on the crane, jib, boom extension, and manufacturer configuration. Confirm the exact attachment and chart before planning a positive or negative luff.

2. The jib chart

The jib has its own load table and operating conditions, which may include extension, angle, main-boom length, and outrigger setup. Capacity changes across those combinations. Some positions are not rated. The Lift Plan Calculator supports only the configurations for which its verified geometry and chart data are available; a missing result must not be replaced by a main-boom estimate.Lift Plan Calculator

3. What changes when the jib goes on

• Hook point: moves from the boom tip to the jib tip. Radius is now measured to the jib tip hook.
• Height: maximum hook height increases by the jib's vertical component at its angle.
• Reach: maximum radius increases, but the capacity at that radius comes from the jib table.
• Weight: follow the applicable chart notes for jib and attachment deductions, and include the fitted equipment in transport-weight checks.
• Clearance: the boom-tip-to-jib knuckle now has to clear the ceiling or the structure as the jib luffs.

4. Confirm the jib for the machine

Availability and compatibility must be confirmed for the actual fleet unit. The factory catalog does not prove that CLE stocks a particular attachment, and a jib without verified configuration data must not be treated as rated by the public planning tool.

5. When to use the jib

• Reaching over a parapet and down onto a roof deck
• Setting glass on a facade from behind the building line
• Getting height for a stair tower or atrium beyond the main boom
• Threading a load under a canopy or pipe rack with a negative luff
• Any long-radius light load where the main boom runs out of reach before it runs out of capacity

When the load is heavy and the radius is short, leave the jib off: the main boom chart is stronger and the setup is simpler.