Cranes & Gantry Systems

Crane and gantry systems are essential tools in industries that require heavy lifting operations, transporting goods, and organising materials. These types of complex lifting solutions help to simplify tasks, boost productivity, and reduce manual labour, thus lower injury risks.

Whether you're in construction, manufacturing, or shipping, understanding the different types of crane and gantry systems can help make more informed decisions to optimise your operations.

WHAT ARE CRANE & GANTRY SYSTEMS?

Crane systems are machines designed to lift and move heavy loads horizontally or vertically. Where, gantry systems are a type of crane supported by two or more legs that run on wheels or tracks. Both these systems are versatile, efficient, and come in an extensive range of configurations that can be tailored to suit your specific tasks.

TYPES OF CRANE/GANTRY SYSTEMS

OVERHEAD CRANES

Often called bridge cranes, these are commonly used in factories and warehouses. They typically consist of a horizontal beam (bridge) supported by rails or some kind of similar structure. Overhead cranes are ideal for lifting and moving materials across large indoor spaces.

GANTRY CRANES

Gantry cranes are similar to overhead cranes but are freestanding. They have legs that run on wheels or tracks, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. They are commonly seen in shipping yards, construction sites, and large scale warehouses.

JIB CRANES

Jib cranes are smaller and designed for localised lifting tasks. They consist of a vertical support and a horizontal arm that swings in a semicircle or full circle. Jibs are available in free-standing, wall-mounted, and wrap-around column configurations, as well as in materials including powder-coated, stainless steel, and hot-dip galvanised to suit a wide range of operating environments. These cranes are best for repetitive tasks in smaller workspaces.

PORTABLE GANTRY CRANES

Portable gantry cranes are lightweight and mobile. They are perfect for tasks requiring flexibility, such as equipment maintenance or temporary workspaces, as well as personnel lifting in confined space scenarios.

CONTAINER CRANES

Container cranes are massive gantry systems designed specifically for loading and unloading shipping containers. They are commonly found in ports and shipping yards.

DAVIT CRANES

Davit cranes are used for lifting and lowering loads in compact spaces. Commonly deployed in maritime, offshore, construction, and industrial settings, davit's assist in handling equipment, materials, and smaller items, such as boats, offering precise control and efficiency. Additionally, davit cranes are typically portable.

VAN & LORRY CRANES

A van/lorry cranes are used for loading and unloading heavy goods directly from vehicles. They're ideal for construction, logistics, and delivery tasks, enabling efficient material handling on-site or during transport, saving time and reducing manual effort.

WHERE ARE CRANE/GANTRY SYSTEMS BEST USED?

• Construction Sites: Tower cranes and gantry systems are indispensable for lifting heavy materials like steel beams, concrete, and machinery.
• Factories & Warehouses: Overhead and jib cranes can help move large components or finished goods efficiently.
• Shipyards & Ports: Container cranes can streamline loading and unloading operations, saving time and effort.
• Workshops & Maintenance Areas: Portable gantry systems are ideal for small-scale lifting operations in repair and maintenance settings.

BENEFITS OF INVESTING IN CRANE & GANTRY SYSTEMS

1. Increased Productivity

Crane and gantry systems significantly reduce the time and effort required to move heavy loads. This efficiency allows workers to focus on other critical tasks, boosting overall productivity.

2. Cost Savings

While the initial investment might seem substantial, these systems reduce long-term costs by minimising the need for large labour teams. They also decrease the risk of workplace injuries, saving on insurance and compensation expenses.

3. Enhanced Safety

Modern crane and gantry systems come equipped with advanced safety features like load sensors, anti-sway technology, and emergency stops. These features reduce accidents and protect both workers and equipment.

4. Versatility

From small workshops to massive shipyards, there’s a crane or gantry system for every application. Their adaptability ensures they can handle a variety of tasks efficiently.

5. Better Space Utilisation

By moving heavy objects vertically and horizontally, these systems help optimise workspace layouts, allowing for better organization and increased operational efficiency.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SYSTEM FOR YOU

When selecting a crane of gantry system, you should consider the following factors:

• Weight Capacity: Ensure that the system can handle you heaviest loads.
• Operating Environment: Choose a system/material that suits your space and can handle extreme usage and conditions.
• Task Specificity: Select a system designed for your specific lifting needs.