Luffing changes the pitch angle of a crane boom or jib without rotating the base or moving the crane itself. By pivoting the jib up or down, the operator moves the hook block closer to or further from the mast. This motion is critical for navigating tight construction sites and avoiding obstacles while keeping the load suspended safely.
Heard on the job
Luff the jib up about ten degrees so we can clear that parapet wall before you swing the load over.
Insider tip
Luffing cranes are heavily preferred in dense urban sites because they can park their jibs at a steep angle, avoiding the airspace of adjacent properties and other cranes.