5 Ton Pillar Jib Crane with 60 Meter Lifting Height for Subway Construction

Subway Construction Lifting Needs

Modern subway construction involves deep excavation, vertical shafts, and underground tunnel segments that demand reliable and efficient lifting solutions. The lifting equipment must handle not only heavy loads such as tunnel boring machine (TBM) components, concrete segments, and rebar cages, but also operate safely in confined urban environments.

Importance of Localized Lifting for Deep Shafts and Tunnel Works

In subway projects, especially those involving vertical access shafts reaching 50 to 70 meters deep, localized lifting becomes critical. Large tower cranes or mobile cranes may not be practical due to:

• Space limitations on-site,
• Structural obstructions,
• High cost and complexity of installation.

A pillar jib crane offers localized lifting with:

• A smaller footprint,
• Direct placement near the shaft opening,
• Smooth lifting control for materials entering or exiting deep construction zones.

Role of Pillar Jib Cranes in Vertical and Radial Lifting

Pillar-mounted jib cranes are ideal for:

• Repetitive lifting from deep shafts,
• Precise load positioning using a rotating jib arm (up to 360°),
• Compact deployment near shaft perimeters or in centralized staging zones.

This makes them a go-to solution in subway projects where lifting reliability, safety, and vertical reach are key.

Project Background

Subway Construction Site Layout and Vertical Shaft Design

A typical subway construction site includes:

• A vertical shaft (6–12 meters in diameter) extending 40 to 70 meters deep.
• A ground-level staging area where loads are prepared for lowering or received after lifting.
• Surrounding constraints such as buildings, roads, or underground utilities that limit large crane deployment.

In such an environment, a pillar jib crane is installed adjacent to the shaft, with its foundation embedded in reinforced concrete and the jib arm positioned to swing loads directly over the shaft opening.

Lifting Challenges in Confined Spaces with High Vertical Reach

Key challenges include:

• Long lifting height (60 meters), requiring specially designed wire rope hoists with sufficient drum capacity.
• Precise control during lifting and lowering to avoid swaying or collisions with shaft walls or underground structures.
• Space limitations that restrict the use of gantry cranes or mobile cranes.
• The need for safe, reliable operation during round-the-clock construction shifts.

A 5-ton pillar jib crane with a robust hoisting system addresses these needs while minimizing operational risks.

Requirements from the Construction Contractor

When specifying lifting equipment for subway construction, contractors typically require:

• Rated Load: 5 tons (suitable for most construction materials and components).
• Lifting Height: 60 meters or more, depending on shaft depth.( Usually wire rope electric hoists are used as the lifting hoist of jib cranes. Check 3 ton electric hoist with 65 meter wire rope  lifting height. ) 
• Slewing Radius: Adjustable based on site layout, typically 3–7 meters.
• Rotation Range: Full 360° preferred, with locking options.
• Operation Mode: Remote or pendant control; optional variable frequency drive (VFD) for smooth hoisting.
• Hoist Type: High-capacity wire rope hoist with multiple braking systems.
• Safety Features: Overload limiter, anti-drop safety hook, emergency stop, phase-loss protection.

These requirements shape the design and specification of the pillar jib crane, ensuring it meets the performance, safety, and logistical needs of underground construction projects.

5 Ton Jib Crane Configuration Overview

• Type: Pillar-mounted jib crane with Customized Electric Wire Rope Hoists 
• Rated Load: 5 Tons
• Lifting Height: 60 meters, which can be customized based on your needs
• Rotation Angle: 360° continuous or limited
• Mounting: Foundation-anchored column base
• Hoist Type: Wire rope hoist with double-speed or frequency control
• Power Supply: Typically 380V, 50Hz, 3-phase (adjustable)

Electrical System

Weatherproof Control Panel (IP55 or Above)

• Control panel is enclosed in a steel cabinet with IP55 or higher protection, resistant to dust, water, and construction site debris.
• Internal layout includes circuit breakers, motor protection devices, contactors, and terminal blocks for quick maintenance access.
• Optional features include surge arrestors and soft starters for smooth motor performance.

Standard Remote-Control Operation

• The crane is operated via an industrial-grade wireless remote control system to ensure safe and flexible operation from a distance.

Remote includes:

• Separate buttons for lifting/lowering, slewing, and emergency stop.
• Clear labeling and long-range signal coverage (typically up to 100 meters).
• Rechargeable or replaceable battery pack with charger.

Pendant control is optional and can be installed as a backup system upon request.

Safety and Protection Systems

• Emergency Stop Function: Accessible on the remote and on the crane body to immediately disconnect power in case of danger.
• Phase Monitoring Relay: Detects phase loss, reverse phase, and voltage imbalance for motor protection.
• Thermal Overload Protection: Prevents motor overheating during extended lifting cycles.
• Limit Switches: Upper and lower lifting limits to prevent over-travel of the hoist.

The 5-ton pillar jib crane with a 60-meter lifting height requires a solid concrete foundation, typically 2 to 2.5 meters wide and 1.8 to 2.5 meters deep, anchored with M30–M36 bolts. The ground must have a bearing capacity of at least 150 kN/m² to support the crane's weight and turning forces. Installation takes about 10 to 14 days, including concrete curing. It involves site preparation, foundation work, crane erection, electrical wiring, and testing, usually carried out by a team of 6 to 8 workers using basic lifting and electrical tools.

5 Ton Jib Cranes in Subway Construction: Practical Applications

Efficient Excavation Handling

In deep shaft excavation, removing soil and rock efficiently is critical to maintaining construction progress. A 5-ton jib crane with long lifting height ensures fast and safe removal of materials from the bottom of the shaft to the surface.

• Lifts excavated debris from shafts up to 60 meters deep
• Supports continuous excavation with minimal delays
• Reduces reliance on bulky surface cranes

Safe Lowering of Equipment

Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) and heavy tools must be lowered carefully into underground tunnels. The jib crane provides controlled movement and precision during these critical operations.

• Lowers TBM components, cutter heads, and hydraulic systems
• Safely delivers work platforms and service tools to underground levels
• Minimizes swinging and swaying during descent

Reliable Handling of Infrastructure Materials

Throughout tunnel construction, heavy structural components must be transported into the shaft and positioned underground. The 5-ton jib crane provides the reach and lifting capacity required for these tasks.

• Lifts and places ventilation fans
• Handles long pipe sections for utility or drainage systems
• Transports concrete segment rings used for tunnel linings

Ideal for Confined Urban Sites

Urban subway projects often face space constraints, where large cranes are impractical. Pillar jib cranes provide localized, reliable lifting in these compact settings.

• Compact design fits into tight job sites
• 360° slewing allows flexible material positioning
• Enhances safety and efficiency in high-traffic urban areas

Advantages of the 5 Ton Pillar Jib Crane

The 5-ton pillar jib crane offers several benefits that make it especially suited for subway construction and other urban projects. Its design and functionality deliver efficient lifting while addressing space and operational constraints.

• Space-Saving Vertical Structure
  The compact pillar design requires minimal ground space, making it perfect for crowded urban job sites where large cranes cannot fit.
• Smooth Rotation and Precise Positioning
  The 360° slewing capability allows operators to position loads accurately over the shaft or work area, improving safety and workflow efficiency.
• Cost-Effective Solution
  Compared to expensive tower cranes or large gantry cranes, the jib crane offers a budget-friendly option without compromising performance.
• Easy Maintenance and Accessible Parts
  The crane's straightforward design ensures quick maintenance and readily available replacement parts, minimizing downtime.

Optional Customizations for 5 Ton Pillar Jib Crane

To better fit specific project needs and site conditions, various customizations are available. These options help enhance safety, performance, and integration with your overall construction workflow.

• Explosion-Proof or Waterproof Versions
  Designed for hazardous or wet environments, these variants ensure safe operation under challenging site conditions.
• Extended Arm Length or Reduced Swing Angle
  Customize the jib length or limit the rotation range to adapt to site space constraints and lifting requirements.
• Dual-Speed or Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) Hoisting System
  Offers smoother, more precise load handling and energy-efficient operation for sensitive or heavy lifting tasks.
• Integration with Lifting Logs and Project Tracking Systems
  Enables digital monitoring of crane usage, load cycles, and maintenance schedules for improved safety and project management.

Quotation and Inquiry Checklist

To provide an accurate quotation and tailored solution, please prepare the following information:

• Required Lifting Capacity and Height
  Specify the maximum load weight and the needed lifting height (e.g., 5 tons, 60 meters).
• Rotation Range
  Indicate if full 360° rotation is required or if a limited slewing angle is preferred.
• Power Supply Details
  Provide voltage, frequency, and phase information (e.g., 380V, 50Hz, 3-phase).
• Site Conditions and Mounting Limitations
  Describe space constraints, foundation type, soil condition, and any special installation requirements.
• Delivery and Installation Timeline
  Share your expected delivery date and installation schedule to help plan logistics.

 

The 5 Ton Pillar Jib Crane is an ideal lifting solution for subway shaft construction thanks to its compact design, long lifting reach, and precise operation. Its space-saving footprint and reliable performance make it well-suited for the tight, confined conditions typical of urban underground projects.Check types of material handling cranes for construction site. 

If you're interested in learning more or discussing your project needs, please contact us to request a technical proposal or schedule a site visit. Our experts are ready to assist you with tailored crane solutions.