kraanarm

A kraanarm, in English commonly referred to as a crane arm, is the structural extension of a crane that reaches toward a load. It is the part of the crane that supports and guides the hoisting equipment, such as the hoist, trolley, and cable or hydraulic systems, and transfers loads to the crane’s base or counterweight system. The arm can take several forms, including a fixed jib, a swinging or luffing jib, or a telescopic boom. In some cranes, the arm is modular or lattice-like, while other designs use solid tubular sections.

Construction and operation

Kraanarmen are typically made from steel or alloyed materials to balance strength and weight. They are designed to withstand bending, torsion, and dynamic loads from lifting, swinging, and wind. The arm is balanced by counterweights on the opposite end and is rotated by a slewing mechanism. Depending on the design, the length and reach of the arm can be adjusted, either by fixed lengths, telescoping sections, or by changing the angle of a luffing jib. The arm must work in concert with other crane components, including the base, outriggers, and control systems.

Types and applications

Common types include fixed or swing jib cranes, luffing jib cranes, and telescopic boom cranes. Kraanarmen are found in construction, shipyards, manufacturing facilities, and logistics operations, where they enable handling of heavy loads at varying distances and heights. They require careful maintenance, adherence to load ratings, and compliance with safety standards to account for factors such as wind, reach, and dynamic lifting.

Safety and standards

Proper inspection, lubrication, and monitoring of wear on cables, pulleys, and joints are essential. Operators must be trained, loads must be within rated capacity, and procedures should account for wind and environmental conditions. Standards and regulations governing crane operation vary by country but generally cover performance, inspection, maintenance, and operator certification.