Non-Linearities in Crane Boom Design

The conflicting design goals of light weight and high strength influence decisions made during the development of many new products. Those products that are stability critical must be handled with particular caution. Design guidelines and specifications exist that give appropriate guidance in the case of crane booms and jibs when the non-linear behavior of these structures is recognized and accommodated. This, along with a proper interpretation of those design guidelines, will assure acceptable structural performance in the final product.