If you’re exploring heavy-duty lifting solutions, understanding what is a gantry crane or what is a portal crane can help you determine if it’s the right solution for your operation. These cranes are versatile lifting systems widely used across construction, manufacturing, and shipping to handle large loads with ease. Whether you’re in the early stages of researching crane equipment or looking to compare types for a specific application, this guide covers the essentials – from the types and uses of gantry cranes to their key benefits and structure, helping you make an informed decision for your lifting needs.
What Is Meant by Gantry Crane?
A gantry crane is a lifting system where the crane’s hoist and trolley move along a bridge (or girder) supported by two or more legs. These legs are often fixed to rails or set on wheels, allowing the crane to straddle a workspace and lift materials precisely. The term “gantry” typically refers to the overarching structure that holds the gant components together, providing stability for safe and efficient lifting.
What Are The Different Types of Gantry Cranes?
There are several types of gantry cranes, each with features and advantages for particular applications. Below, we’ll look at the main types and what each is used for.
Full Gantry Crane
A full gantry crane has two sturdy legs running on rails or tracks, enabling it to span large work areas with ease. These cranes are commonly used in environments like shipping yards, rail yards, and large construction sites to handle substantial materials or containers.
Full gantry cranes come in two primary configurations: single girder and double girder. A single girder gantry crane has one main horizontal girder along which the hoist travels. A double girder crane has two girders, which allows for greater lifting capacity and higher stability.
Semi-Gantry Crane
What makes a semi-gantry crane different? Unlike full gantry design, semi gantry cranes have one leg on a rail and the other side attached to a building or structure. They are often found in locations with limited space, as they save ground area and work well in factories or storage yards where one side is close to a wall or other support.
Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) Crane
What is RTG crane? Rubber tyred gantry cranes, or RTG cranes, are mobile cranes on rubber wheels, commonly used in manufacturing plant, shipping yards, construction sites, and outdoor storage yards to stack and move various loads. Their mobility on tires allows them to maneuver across factory yards without needing tracks, giving them flexibility in handling materials.
Rail Mounted Gantry (RMG) Crane
What is an RMG crane? Rail mounted gantry (RMG) cranes operate on fixed rails. They’re often used in ports and intermodal yards for stacking containers with high precision. Since they run on rails, RMG cranes provide stability and are ideal for large, organized storage areas with high stacking requirements.
Goliath Gantry Crane
What is goliath crane? Also known as a portal crane, a goliath crane is a large gantry crane typically used in heavy industries like shipbuilding, where substantial lifting capacity is essential. They can lift extremely heavy loads, making them perfect for assembling ship parts, handling large precast concrete, or other large-scale manufacturing.
What Are Gantry Cranes Used For?
Now that we’ve covered the different types of gantry cranes, let’s explore what gantry cranes are used for across various industries:
Construction
What is gantry crane used for in construction? It primarily facilitates the handling of heavy materials, ensuring projects are completed safely and on schedule. To be specific, gantry cranes are widely used on construction sites for lifting and transporting large materials such as steel beams, concrete slabs, prefabricated components, and rebar. In particular, the use of mobile cranes in this sector allows construction teams to adjust crane locations as the project progresses, enhancing both flexibility and efficiency.
Below are several practical applications of our cranes in the construction industry:
Double Girder Gantry Crane for Tunnel Construction Project
- Lifting capacity: 50 tons
- Span: 40 meters
- Lifting height: 80 meters
- Project location: St. Petersburg, Russia
- Application: lifting waste materials in the tunnel
Rubber Tired Crane for Bridge Construction
- Lifting capacity: 180 tons
- Span: 18 meters
- Lifting height: 15 meters
- Application: lifting, transporting and installing prefabricated bridge segments
Railway and Logistics Hubs
What are gantry crane used for In rail yards? Generally, railway gantry cranes assist in the loading and unloading of train cars, moving heavy containers, cargo or equipment as needed. Rail-mounted gantry cranes help organize and streamline freight logistics, allowing for quick and efficient movement of goods. They are also used in the transport sector for handling and loading heavy loads onto trucks and trains, facilitating smooth logistics operations.
Here are some of the practical applications of our gantry cranes in railway and logistics hubs:
Rail Mounted Crane for a Logistics Hub
- Lifting capacity: 45 tons under the spreader
- Span: 38 meters
- Lifting height: 15 meters (4+1 container)
- Project location: Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Application: lifting 20-foot, 40-foot, and 45-foot containers
Double Girder Gantry Crane for Railway
- Lifting capacity: 60 tons
- Project location: Chile
- Application: lifting 20-foot containers
Manufacturing and Heavy Industry
Gantry cranes are essential in manufacturing plants, where they handle everything from moving raw materials to transporting finished products. In heavy industries like automotive and aerospace manufacturing, double girder gantry cranes lift and place large machinery, molds, and structural components. These cranes also facilitate safe and efficient assembly processes in shipbuilding, railcar manufacturing, and the production of industrial equipment.
Check out our gantry cranes used in manufacturing and heavy industries below:
Rubber Tyred Crane for Steel Tank Manufacturing Plant
- Lifting capacity: 40 tons
- Span: 19.8 meters
- Project location: Texas, USA
- Application: handling steel tanks
Semi Gantry Crane for Machinery Manufacturing
- Lifting capacity: 20+10 tons
- Span: 34 meters
- Project location: Uzbekistan
- Application: lifting mechanical parts
Shipping and Ports
What is a gantry used for in shipping yards and ports? In these sectors, container gantry cranes (like RTGs and RMGs) are used to handle large, heavy shipping containers efficiently. These cranes stack and retrieve containers, organizing them in rows to maximize yard space and enable quick, organized loading and unloading. Gantry cranes in ports are critical for smooth and rapid freight movement, which reduces ship turnaround time, improves cargo management, and supports global trade.
Find out some practical applications of our cranes in shipping and ports:
Rail Mounted Gantry Crane for Port
- Lifting capacity: 40.5 tons
- Application: lifting 20-foot, 40-foot containers from ships
RMG Crane for Shipping Container Handling
- Lifting capacity: 41 tons
- Application: handling 20-foot, 40-foot shipping containers
Precast Concrete Production
Gantry cranes are essential in precast concrete production, enabling efficient lifting and precise positioning of heavy concrete components like beams and slabs. They streamline movement within the plant, from casting beds to storage and loading, boosting productivity and safety in handling large precast elements.
Here are some practical examples of our cranes in precast concrete production:
Double Girder Crane for Precast Concrete Production
- Lifting capacity: 70 tons
- Project location: Argentina
- Application: handling heavy reinforced concrete beams
Single Girder Gantry Crane for Precast Concrete Plant
- Lifting capacity: 10 tons
- Span: 18.9 meters
- Lifting height: 5.4 meters
- Project location: Indonesia
- Application: lifting precast concrete components
What Factors to Consider When Choosing a Gantry Crane?
Now that you’re familiar with the different types of gantry cranes and their unique applications, it’s time to dive into how to choose the right one for your specific needs. With various factors to consider, such as load capacity, mobility, and application environment, making the right decision can have a significant impact on efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the selection process and choose the crane that perfectly suits your requirements.
What Load Capacity Do You Need?
The first and most important question is: What load capacity do you need? Gantry cranes come in a wide range of capacities, from light-duty cranes for simple lifting tasks to heavy-duty cranes for heavy industrial applications. Choosing the correct capacity ensures operational safety and protects your equipment from unnecessary wear and tear.
Ask yourself how frequently you’ll be lifting items and what weights you’ll be working with. This will guide you in deciding whether a light, medium, or heavy-duty gantry crane is best suited for your operations.
What Are Your Specific Application Needs?
The next question is: What specific applications will the crane serve? Different applications demand specific features and configurations.
For example, for logistics and warehousing, mobile gantry cranes are favored for their flexibility. They allow for repositioning and are beneficial for loading and unloading in changing locations.
Matching your specific application with the appropriate crane ensures that the equipment will be effective, safe, and reliable.
What Environmental Conditions Will the Crane Face?
Another crucial question is: What environmental factors need to be considered? The operating environment has a direct influence on the crane’s design and materials.
- For cranes used outdoors, corrosion-resistant materials, weatherproofing, and special coatings can increase durability. Options like galvanized steel and protective paint are standard for marine and construction environments.
- For indoor applications, especially in manufacturing or assembly facilities, indoor gantry cranes can be simpler in design, focusing more on precision and noise reduction.
Adapting your crane to the environment it will operate in ensures a longer lifespan and minimizes maintenance requirements.
What Are the Required Height and Span Dimensions?
Consider this question: What height and span will the crane need? The dimensions of your crane, specifically its height and span, should align with your workspace and the items you’ll be lifting.
- Height: The crane’s lifting height should match the vertical clearance needed for moving goods or materials. Be sure to account for the height of the items you’re lifting and any obstructions within the workspace.
- Span: The crane’s span is the width it can cover horizontally. This should be measured in relation to your workspace size and the areas where lifting will be necessary. A wider span is useful for large open spaces, while a narrow span is ideal for confined areas.
Customizing the crane’s dimensions to your specific workspace can maximize efficiency and avoid space-related issues during operation.
What Budget and ROI Can You Set?
Lastly, consider your budget: What is your budget, and what ROI do you expect? Gantry cranes are a significant investment, so it’s essential to establish a budget and consider the potential return on investment (ROI). The right crane should contribute to productivity and efficiency, ultimately saving your business time and money.
- Initial Cost: Compare the initial costs of different types and configurations of the cranes, including customizations and additional features.
- Operating Costs: Calculate anticipated maintenance and operating costs, as different crane types and duty levels may have varied upkeep requirements.
- Long-Term Value: Consider how the crane will improve productivity and whether the initial investment will result in cost savings over time. Choosing a higher quality crane can often mean fewer repairs and longer service life.
A clear budget and ROI assessment can help you make an informed decision that balances cost with quality and effectiveness.
In summary, selecting the right gantry crane for your needs is essential for achieving efficient and safe operations. By answering these essential questions about load capacity, environmental conditions, dimensional requirements, specific applications, and budget, you can find a lifting solution that meets your unique demands. For any questions about choosing the right crane, feel free to reach out to us.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using Gantry Cranes?
- Versatility: One of the primary benefits of gantry cranes is their versatility. They can be used in a wide range of applications, including construction sites, warehouses, and shipping yards. Whether lifting heavy machinery, moving materials, or handling precast concrete components, they adapt to different tasks, making them valuable across various industries.
- Mobility: Gantry cranes can be designed for mobility, which is a significant advantage in environments where tasks are spread out over large areas. It allows workers to transport heavy loads from one location to another easily, enhancing workflow and productivity.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Their relatively simple design and straightforward installation process require less investment compared to other lifting equipment, such as overhead cranes. Additionally, the mobility of the cranes allows for efficient use across multiple job sites, reducing the need for additional equipment.
- Customization Options: We offer customizable designs to meet specific lifting needs. This includes variations in lifting capacity, height, and mobility options. You can tailor your cranes to suit your operational requirements, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness.
What Is a Gantry Crane Structure?
What characterizes gantry cranes is their overhead structure, supported on two or more legs. They can move along rails or tracks and are designed to lift heavy materials with precision. The typical gantry crane consists of a bridge girder, legs, hoist, and a control system, each playing a vital role in its operation.
- Gantry Girder – What is gantry girder? The girder is the horizontal part of the gantry crane that spans the area where lifting occurs. It is typically constructed from steel, designed to provide a strong and stable platform for lifting operations. The bridge girder can be single girder or double girder, with the latter offering greater lifting capacity and stability.
- Support Legs – The legs of the crane are the vertical supports that bear the weight of the bridge and the load being lifted. These legs can either be fixed or adjustable, allowing the crane to operate at various heights.
- Hoist and Trolley – The hoist is the lifting mechanism that raises and lowers loads, while the trolley allows lateral movement along the bridge beam. Together, they provide full mobility in three dimensions for precise load positioning.
- Control System – The control system governs the operation of the crane, allowing operators to lift, lower, and move loads with precision. Controls can be located on the crane itself or operated remotely, enhancing safety and operational efficiency. Advanced systems may also include safety features such as overload protection and emergency stop functions.
Understanding the crane components is crucial for anyone involved in the operation, maintenance, or purchase of the cranes. By appreciating the gantry crane structure, operators can ensure safe and effective use in various industrial applications.
What Is the Difference Between Gantry Crane and Overhead Crane?
When considering material handling equipment, understanding the differences between a gantry crane and an overhead crane is crucial for making informed decisions for specific applications. Both types of cranes serve similar purposes in lifting and transporting heavy loads, but they have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different environments and tasks. Here’s a detailed comparison:
A gantry crane features a bridge structure supported by two or more legs that run on wheels along a track or floor. The legs provide stability and mobility, allowing the crane to move across a defined area. Gantry cranes can be designed as full gantries (with two legs) or semi-gantries (with one leg).
Structural Design
An overhead crane, also known as a bridge crane, consists of a horizontal bridge that moves along elevated tracks mounted on the building’s columns or walls. The lifting mechanism (hoist) is typically mounted on the bridge, allowing it to move side to side while the bridge travels along the tracks.
Gantry style cranes can be designed to run on rails or rubber wheels, making them versatile for various indoor or outdoor applications.
Mobility
Overhead cranes are generally fixed in place, mounted on beams or tracks above the work area. They are ideal for indoor applications, such as factories and warehouses, where their fixed position optimizes workspace usage.
Gantry cranes are ideal for both indoor and outdoor applications where mobility and versatility are required, like shipyards, container yards, construction sites, and precast concrete plants. They are ideal for lifting and transporting heavy loads over long distances outdoors.
Applications
Overhead cranes are commonly used in indoor settings where precise and repetitive lifting operations are required. They’re ideal for warehouses, factories, and maintenance bays for tasks like assembly, loading, and unloading heavy items from fixed locations.
Gantry cranes don’t require a pre-installed support structure since they stand on legs, which can be beneficial for areas without structural support for overhead rails. They also have minimal requirements for installation, as they only need a level surface or rail system.
Installation and Space Requirements
Installing an overhead crane requires runway beams and structural supports, making them more complex to install. However, they save valuable floor space since they operate above the work area without occupying ground-level space.
With a clear understanding of the differences between a gantry crane and an overhead crane, you’ll be equipped to choose the right lifting solution, ensuring safer, more efficient lifting operations and maximizing productivity. If you’d like to learn more about what is a gantry lift, what is an overhead gantry, what is an overhead crane, or other lifting equipment options, please feel free to contact us.
