Gantry cranes are one of the safest and efficient lifting systems and material handling systems for heavy lifting around the world. Gantry cranes offer a safe and effective way to lift, maneuver or position material, loads, etc, in applications such as construction sites or shipyards, factories or distribution centers, and more.

In this article, we will explain what a gantry crane is, explain types of gantry cranes, and also provide industrial uses for gantry cranes.

What is a Gantry Crane?

A gantry crane is an overhead crane that consists of a bridge supported by two or more legs which roll on wheels or move along a fixed track. In contrast to an EOT (Electric Overhead Traveling) crane, which comprises a bridge suspended from building columns or beams, a gantry crane is not supported from an overhead structure or beam. Gantry cranes can be used indoors or outdoors as a free standing structure.

The primary parts of gantry crane includes:

Bridge or Girder: The horizontal part of a crane for hoisting to attach.

Legs: The vertical support or components that connect the bridge to the floor or crane tracks.

Hoist and Trolley: The system that raises and lowers the load, forward, or backward in the working space.

Wheels or Rails: Components that allow the crane the ability to move horizontally in the working area.

Types of Gantry Cranes

1. Full Gantry Crane

This type of gantry crane consists of two legs that run across a larger area on rails that are embedded in the floor. This type of crane is used for heavy-duty applications such as shipbuilding, steel yards, and container terminals. Full gantry cranes provide maximum stability when the loads are in place.

2. Semi-Gantry Crane

A semi-gantry crane has a leg that runs on a rail on the floor, while the other leg runs on a rail track that is mounted to a wall. A semi-gantry crane is an excellent option for indoor workshops or factories where workspace is limited. 

3. Portable Gantry Crane

A portable or mobile gantry crane is lightweight and has wheels making it easy to move around in your work area. A portable gantry crane is generally used in small facilities, performing maintenance, light assembly, or repair work. Portable gantry cranes can be adjustable in height and span to allow further versatility.

4. Adjustable Gantry Crane

Adjustable cranes have the ability to modify their height, span or tread allowing for a range of load sizes or workspace limitations. Adjustable cranes are ideal when temporary projects arise or for use in emergency situations where conditions change to lift loads safely.

5. Rubber Tired Gantry Crane (RTG)

These cranes are used primarily in for the RTGs are ‘fat’ rubber tires instead of rails, and therefore conducive to making smaller, short movements, that are possible with swivel trailer tires.

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The Advantages of Gantry Cranes

• Adaptability: Gantry cranes can be moved or configured depending on the work site.
• Affordable cost: Gantry cranes are an economical option due to low installation and upkeep compared to the permanent crane.
• Easy installation: They typically do not require the building of supporting structures.
• Wide range of capacities: Gantry cranes are available anywhere from light-duty cranes to larger-duty cranes that are used in heavy duty industrial applications.

In Conclusion

Gantry cranes can offer a substantial lifting solution in providing efficiency, safety, and versatility in a growing range of industries. Gantry cranes can be utilized in heavy-duty applications outdoors, and in some instances, the designs can be far smaller and used in tight quarters in the indoor manufacturing and production spaces.

At RKMT, we provide more than just gearing for mechanical engineering innovation. We have helped support the manufacturing industry through the design and manufacture of precision engineered crane components and motion systems with reliability and long-term performance in mind. With more than 30 years of experience in our field of business, we pride ourselves in providing systems that enhance India’s industrialization and capabilities through lifting and gear solutions.