A powerful and efficient piece of heavy rigging equipment offers numerous benefits for industrial industries who are looking for a reliable way to move their materials or other heavy machinery quickly and safely.
Gantry cranes are used in various industries, including manufacturing, shipping, construction, and infrastructure. They are known for their ability to lift and transport heavy loads with ease.
In this blog, we will discuss what gantry cranes are, their types, their applications, safety features, and how they work in a lift plan.
With this information in hand, you can make an informed decision about the best lifting solution for your business needs.
What Is A Gantry Crane?
A gantry crane, sometimes called a bridge or overhead crane, is a large piece of equipment designed to lift and transport extremely heavy materials or objects. They are built with one or more rails and a trolley system that allow them to move efficiently, and they are available in different types, such as hydraulic and electric.
Gantry cranes are made out of strong and durable materials such as steel, aluminum, or a combination of both. The structural components, such as the beams and columns, are usually made of steel, which provides the necessary strength to lift and transport heavy loads.
The trolley and hoist are also typically made of steel. In some cases, aluminum is used for lighter components such as the railings and walkways. The materials used in the construction of gantry cranes depend on the type, size, and application of the crane.
What Is A Gantry Crane Used For?
Gantry cranes are used in various applications, including non-residential construction, infrastructure (such as bridge and railroad construction), and manufacturing. They are used to lift and transport extremely large pieces into place in areas with low overhead clearance—places where conventional cranes are not usable. A good example of its usage is for moving large electric transformers into a power plant. They can also be used to unload and load cargo from ships, trucks and railcars.
2 Main Power Sources for Gantry Crane Lifts
There are two main options when it comes to choosing a power source for this particular type of heavy rigging equipment… Electric and hydraulic.
- Hydraulic – These powerful models offer the highest lifting capacity and can be used to move large loads with ease. They use hydraulic cylinders to lift and move heavy loads and are ideal for use in areas where there is low overhead clearance.
- Electric – This type of lift uses electricity to power its motors and is suitable for use in both indoor and outdoor applications. These can be very efficient and cost-effective options in comparison to hydraulic lifts but do be cognizant of the fact that they offer a lower lifting capacity than their counterpart.
Benefits of Gantry Cranes and Heavy Rigging Equipment
Heavy rigging systems with high ton capacities offer a number of advantages over other lifting solutions. Commonly used in factories, warehouses and other industrial settings, these lifting solutions offer powerful capabilities with models ranging from 10 tons to 700 tons or more!
They often feature an adjustable platform, which allows them to accommodate various sizes, as well as adjustable beams that provide an extra layer of stability when in use. These adjustable features make these heavy rigging systems easy to operate, and their wide range of accessories makes them highly customizable.
Here is a quick make of some of the benefits of using these incredible pieces of equipment:
- Efficiency: Gantry cranes are designed to lift and transport heavy loads with ease, which increases efficiency in manufacturing, shipping, and construction.
- Versatility: Gantry cranes come in various sizes and types, making them versatile and suitable for use in different applications.
- Safety: Most gantry cranes come with safety features, such as overload protection and emergency stop buttons, which help prevent accidents and injuries.
- Cost-effective: Gantry cranes are cost-effective compared to other lifting solutions which require more setup time and maintenance.
- Durability: Gantry cranes are made of sturdy materials such as steel, making them durable and able to withstand harsh environments.
- Productivity: Gantry cranes allow for faster load lifting and transportation, leading to increased productivity and reduced downtime.
- Customization: Gantry cranes can be customized to meet specific requirements, making them suitable for specialized applications.
How A Gantry Crane Works Within the Lift Plan
A crane lift plan is a detailed document that includes information such as the weight and dimensions of the load, the crane’s capacity, and the location of the lift.
The lift plan is created by a team of experts, including engineers, operators, and riggers, who work together to ensure that the lift is safe and efficient. The lift plan also includes the crane’s position, rigging requirements, and any other necessary equipment needed for the lift.
When looking for the right piece of equipment, check to see if the crane rental company has an engineering team that can help coordinate the lift plan. A team of experts from the rental company can also provide advice throughout the process that can be invaluable for a successful lift project.
Find Your Gantry Crane Solution Today
With the help of gantry cranes, you can move large and heavy items efficiently and effectively without sacrificing safety. A friendly and knowledgeable rental company can help you find the right solution for your application.
If you’re ready to rent equipment but don’t know where to start looking, Maxim Crane can help. We understand the importance of having a reliable and efficient solution for handling large lifts.
We offer two or four point gantry cranes with up to 13 axles. The capabilities of our gantry cranes range from 500–700 tons, as well as, 40-ton for smaller jobs. We can help you compare prices and features across different models so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for your application.
Our team can also help you coordinate the lift plan and provide maintenance services to ensure that the crane operates at optimal performance. Browse through our selection of heavy rigging equipment and contact us to get started.
