Introduction To Overhead Bridge Cranes

A bridge crane is a robust lifting machine designed for use in factories, workshops, and other industrial settings to transport goods and equipment. It is named for its bridge-like shape. It can meet the specific needs of your daily loading applications.

Bridge cranes are available in a variety of sizes, types, designs, and configurations, equipped with a wide range of components and accessories. They are indispensable for tasks such as material handling, lifting molds from press machines, and transferring raw materials to production lines.

High efficiency and safety are the primary advantages of installing overhead cranes. Compared to ground-mounted or ground-based equipment, overhead cranes enable faster operations. In high-risk environments involving high-temperature metals, chemicals, or toxic substances, overhead cranes provide a safer method of material transportation, thereby reducing safety risks for workers.

Different Types of Overhead Cranes

TypeGeneral Overhead Bridge Crane
TypeEuropean Overhead Crane
TypeKBK Flexible Crane
TypeSuspension Running Crane
TypeWorkstation Crane
Type Special-purpose Crane

General Overhead Bridge Crane

A general overhead bridge crane consists of two fixed tracks, a bridge girder spanning the tracks and a moving trolley and hoisting mechanism system. Overhead cranes are categorized into single-beam and double-beam structures. Whether it is a single-beam bridge crane or a double-beam bridge crane, there is a trolley that runs along the length of the bridge frame. This trolley is crucial for lifting and moving cargo. Below the bridge frame, the trolley and hoisting mechanism are securely connected. They move together along the bottom of the bridge frame, providing the necessary lifting and transportation functions.

General single beam overhead crane

European Overhead Crane

European overhead cranes are handy lifting tools. They have two types: single-beam and double-beam. Single-beam European ones are light-weight, good for lifting small loads, often paired with electric hoists. Double-beam European ones are stronger, for heavier loads, usually with trolleys. They have European compact structure so they can maximize space saving. Controls are precise, and they’re safe to use. Many industries like them for reliable lifting work.

European-double-girder-overhead-crane-2

KBK Flexible Crane

KBK flexible cranes are easy-to-use lifting tools made of standard parts. They’re super flexible—you can put them together and change their setup easily to fit different workshops, production lines, or warehouses. They’re great for lifting light to medium-heavy things. These cranes are simple to install and adjust when your needs change. They work smoothly, making it easy and safe to move materials. They save effort, help work go faster, and are perfect for industries like electronics, car making, and machine factories.

kbk bridge crane

Suspension Running Crane

Suspension running crane is a kind of top running bridge crane. It refers to the placement of the wheels along the bridge girders. Suspension cranes have the bridge supported on the underside of the runway beams, with the crane wheels running along the lower flange of the girders. Suspension cranes offer higher capacity and can lift heavier loads compared to underhung cranes. Suspension running cranes are typically used for lighter loads, have a lower capacity. And they are supported by roof or ceiling structures.

suspension cranes

Workstation Crane

Workstation cranes are a type of bridge crane designed for light to heavy production tasks, with lifting capacities of up to 2 tons. Workstation cranes are small, flexible lifting tools, perfect for use near workbenches or production lines. They are compact and customizable to fit specific workspaces. They’re easy to install and move. You can adjust their position to fit where you work.

They help move things quickly, saving time and making work easier. Many factories use them for daily small lifting jobs. And the key benefit of workstation cranes is their ergonomic design. This design reduces the need for manual lifting of heavy materials. This not only enhances worker safety but also boosts morale, improves quality, and increases productivity.

workstation overhead crane

Special-purpose Cranes (Grab Bucket & Electromagnetic & Explosion-Proof etc. )

Special-purpose cranes are made for tough jobs and special tasks. They work well in hard conditions, handling things like bulk materials, dangerous areas, and high-voltage work. They’re reliable for industries like mining, power, and chemical plants.

Grab bucket cranes have claws to move coal, ore, or grain easily in ports or mines. Electromagnetic ones use strong magnets to lift steel things, with backup power to keep loads safe. Explosion-proof cranes have parts that don’t catch fire, good for places with flammable gas or dust. Insulated ones use safe materials, perfect for working near live power lines. These cranes are strong and fit many needs. They boost work speed and keep workers safe, making them great for important industrial jobs.

How do you choose the most suitable Overhead Cranes?

How do you choose the most suitable type? Bridge cranes are primarily divided into two types: single-beam and double-beam. Single-beam cranes use suspended trolley cranes, while double-beam cranes use double-beam crab trolley cranes. Both types can be configured for top-running or bottom-running operations.

From these two basic types, there are numerous crane sizes with variations in capacity, configuration, and function. Selecting the right crane involves careful consideration, as the appropriate choice and specifications can significantly enhance productivity, efficiency, and workflow. Next, let us think about it together.

The Way To Choose Your Most Suitable Ones

Selecting the right overhead crane requires aligning three core factors with your specific needs: load characteristics, spatial constraints, and operational demands.

Load Capacity & Duty Cycle: Bridge cranes, ideal for heavy loads (20+ tons) in factories, outperform others for continuous, high-capacity tasks. Workstation cranes suit lighter, frequent lifts (under 5 tons) in assembly lines, while monorail cranes excel at linear, repetitive movements like material transport along fixed paths. Jib cranes offer localized flexibility for workshops needing 360° rotation for small to medium loads (up to 10 tons).

Spatial & Environmental Needs: Top-running bridge cranes require sturdy overhead support and ample vertical space, whereas bottom-running models fit lower ceilings. For outdoor yards or areas without structural support, gantry cranes are preferable. Special-purpose cranes address unique environments: explosion-proof variants for hazardous zones, insulated types for electrical work, grab bucket cranes for bulk materials, and electromagnetic cranes for metal handling.

Automation Degree & Maintenance Needs: Automated cranes boost efficiency in high-volume settings (e.g., warehouses) via IoT-driven precision, while manual options suit low-frequency use to cut costs. Factor in upkeep: bridge cranes need regular rail checks, jib cranes require pivot maintenance, and specialized models demand trained technicians for component servicing.

By balancing these elements, you’ll select a crane that maximizes safety, productivity, and longevity. When selecting the most suitable bridge crane, you need to evaluate the following three key factors: load requirements, environmental constraints, and operational needs.

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