Overhead cranes play a pivotal role in material handling operations across various industries. If you’ve ever wondered, “What is overhead crane?” or heard terms like “What is an EOT crane?” or “What is a bridge crane?”, this article will answer all your questions. Let’s get started by exploring the basics of these overhead lifting equipment.
What is an Overhead Crane?
An overhead crane machine is a type of lifting equipment designed to move heavy loads horizontally and vertically in a controlled environment. It consists of parallel runways with a traveling bridge spanning the gap. A hoist attached to the bridge performs the lifting. Overhead cranes are commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, metal smelting, metal fabrication, precast concrete production and shipbuilding, where moving large and heavy objects is necessary. The term “overhead lifting” refers to the process of lifting materials above ground level using such cranes.

What is a Top Running Overhead Crane?
A top running overhead crane is a type of overhead crane where the bridge runs on tracks mounted on the top of the runway beams. These cranes are ideal for applications requiring high load capacities and maximum headroom, as they utilize the full height of the facility.
What is an Underhung Crane?
An underhung crane, also known as an underslung crane or under running crane, is an overhead crane where the bridge is suspended beneath the runway beams. This design is advantageous for facilities with space constraints, as the crane operates below the structure instead of above it.

What is Bridge Crane?
A bridge crane, also commonly known as an overhead crane, is a versatile and essential piece of industrial lifting equipment designed to facilitate the safe and efficient handling of heavy loads. The name “bridge crane” comes from its unique structural design: a horizontal bridge spans two parallel runways, forming the foundation that enables the crane to operate across the full width of a workspace.
This bridge structure supports a hoist or trolley system, which moves along the length of the bridge. Together, the bridge and hoist create a flexible lifting mechanism capable of traversing three axes:
- Lateral movement (side-to-side) along the bridge.
- Longitudinal movement (back-and-forth) along the runways.
- Vertical movement (up-and-down) using the hoist.
What is EOT Crane?
What is the full form of EOT crane? Specifically, EOT stands for Electric Overhead Travelling crane. The term is often used interchangeably with overhead cranes. If you are further wondering, “What is the meaning of EOT crane?” or “What is meant by EOT crane?”, this abbreviation clarifies its key functionality: electric-powered operation and the ability to travel along overhead runways.

What is Single Girder EOT Crane?
A single girder EOT crane has one main girder that supports the hoist. It is lightweight, cost-effective, and suitable for light to medium-duty applications. These cranes are a popular choice for small to medium-sized workshops, warehouses, and assembly lines.
What is Double Girder EOT Crane?
A double girder EOT crane features two girders, which provide additional strength and stability. This type of crane is designed for heavy-duty applications and can handle larger spans, higher lifting heights, and heavier loads.

What is Overhead Crane Used For?
Overhead cranes are vital pieces of equipment designed to lift, move, and position heavy materials in a wide range of industrial environments. These cranes play a critical role in improving efficiency, safety, and precision during material handling tasks. Let’s explore the various purposes and applications of bridge cranes.
What Is the Purpose of An Overhead Crane System?
The primary purpose of an eot crane is to enable efficient and safe handling of heavy materials that are otherwise difficult or impossible to move manually. By facilitating the lifting and movement of loads in a controlled manner, these cranes reduce labor intensity and minimize the risk of workplace accidents. The question, “What is the purpose of overhead crane?”, is best answered by considering its ability to streamline operations, optimize workflow, and increase productivity in industrial settings.



What Industries Use Overhead Cranes?

Manufacturing
In manufacturing facilities, bridge cranes are essential for moving raw materials, components, and finished products along production lines. They help streamline operations and maintain efficiency in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and machinery production.

Metal Smelting
Overhead cranes are crucial in metal smelting plants for handling molten metal, pouring it into molds, and transporting heavy castings. Their robust design ensures safe and precise operations in high-temperature environments.

Metal Fabrication
In metal fabrication workshops, eot cranes are used to move large sheets of metal, heavy machinery, and fabricated components. They improve productivity and safety by reducing manual handling tasks.

Precast Concrete Production
Overhead cranes play a significant role in precast concrete plants by lifting and positioning concrete panels, beams, and other precast elements. Their reliability and precision ensure the efficient handling of heavy concrete components.

Waste Recycling
In waste recycling facilities, overhead travelling cranes are used to sort and transport recyclable materials. They are particularly useful for handling bulky or heavy items like scrap metal, paper bales, and industrial waste.

Paper Production
Paper mills rely on cranes for handling large rolls of paper, machinery maintenance, and transporting raw materials like wood pulp. These cranes ensure efficient operations in a highly mechanized environment.
By understanding “What is a bridge crane used for?”, you can leverage this equipment to optimize your workflows and achieve your operational goals.
What Are the Benefits of Overhead Cranes?
Increased EfficiencyThey allow for fast and precise movement of heavy loads, improving workflow and reducing the time needed to transport materials.
Space OptimizationSince eot cranes operate along a fixed rail system, they make efficient use of vertical space, which is especially beneficial in facilities with limited floor space.
SafetyOverhead bridge cranes reduce the need for manual lifting, which minimizes the risk of injuries and improves workplace safety.
CustomizationBridge cranes can be customized to meet specific lifting requirements, whether it involves the crane’s lifting capacity, span, or other features.
What is Overhead Crane Structure?
What makes up the structure of an overhead crane, and how do these elements function together? Let’s explore these questions below.
What is Bridge in a Crane?
The bridge is the primary horizontal structure of an overhead crane. It spans the width of the workspace and acts as the foundation for other crane components. The bridge moves along the runway rails, enabling the crane to cover the required area.
- For single girder cranes, the bridge comprises a single horizontal beam.
- For double girder overhead cranes, it includes two beams, offering greater strength and lifting capacity.
The bridge ensures the crane can accommodate the weight of the load and distribute it evenly across the span.
What is a Runway in an Overhead Crane?
The runway consists of tracks or rails mounted to the building structure or on freestanding supports. It provides the path for the crane’s bridge to move longitudinally across the facility. Runways are vital for:
- Maintaining the alignment of the crane’s movement.
- Supporting the load transferred from the bridge.
What is a Hoist in an Overhead Crane?
The hoist is the mechanism responsible for lifting and lowering the load. It is mounted on a trolley that moves horizontally along the bridge. Hoists are classified by:
- Type of power source: Electric, manual, or pneumatic.
- Lifting mechanism: Wire rope or chain hoists, depending on the application.
What is the Trolley in an Overhead Crane?
The trolley is the component of an overhead crane that moves the hoist horizontally along the bridge. It typically runs on rails or tracks mounted on the bridge girder. The trolley allows the crane to transport loads across the workspace efficiently, enabling precise positioning.
What is the Supporting Structure of an Overhead Crane?
The supporting structure includes the columns, beams, and braces that ensure the crane is stable and safe during operation. This structure can be integrated into the building design or built independently, depending on the facility’s requirements.
How Do Overhead Crane Structures Work Together?
All components in a bridge crane structure are interconnected to perform the core function of lifting and moving heavy loads. For example:
- The bridge and runway facilitate movement across the workspace.
- The trolley and hoist handle precise lifting and positioning.
- The control system ensures smooth operation and safety.
Whether you’re dealing with the basic question “What is overhead crane?” or looking into “What is EOT crane used for?’, we hope this article provides you with a clearer understanding of this essential overhead crane equipment. To learn more about our overhead cranes or EOT cranes, contact Aicrane today.