Factors Affecting the Design of Gantry Crane

Ⅰ. Overview of gantry crane

Gantry crane is a variant of bridge crane. In ports, it is mainly used for outdoor cargo yard, stock yard cargo, and bulk cargo loading and unloading operations.

Its metal structure is like a door-shaped frame, with two supporting feet installed under the main beam. The gantry crane can walk directly on the track on the ground, and the two ends of the main beam can be provided with outhanging cantilever beams.

The gantry crane types are various. Gantry cranes have the characteristics of high site utilization, large operating range, wide adaptability, and strong versatility, and are widely used in port freight yards.

Ⅱ. Factors affecting the design of gantry cranes

1. Arm length and span

When determining the arm length and span, first consider the size of the working area and the size and weight of the maximum load. This is the beginning of the gantry crane design.

2. The place of use is indoor or outdoor

The operating environment of the crane will determine the ideal materials and finishes used to manufacture its various components. Since the crane is used outdoors, materials such as stainless steel or galvanized steel are required, which can withstand corrosion and withstand ultraviolet radiation, salt water, humidity, and extremely hot or cold weather.

3. Fixed or rotating axle end trucks

The gears and bearings of the crane fixed axle end truck may get dirt, dust and debris in the gears.

Therefore, the design of the rotary shaft end forklift is more heavy and sturdy, usually with fewer parts and lower maintenance costs. The gear is enclosed in a continuous oil bath to prevent all debris from entering even in dirty, dusty and outdoor environments.

4. Speed

Gantry cranes are used in applications where speed is not considered, and bridge cranes can be operated at quite high speeds. But on gantry cranes, the load usually moves at a slower crawl speed.

5. Power transmission

Cable reels are a common choice for power supply, because spring-loaded or motor-driven designs can release and retract the cable as needed. But the disadvantage is that the cable will sag when using long cables, which may cause problems with walking and car traffic on the ground. And the wire rope hoist crane is commonly used.

For portable gantry cranes, a longer extension cord may be sufficient, or the crane can simply be placed close to the power source.

Ⅲ. The design standards of gantry cranes

Like other heavy equipment, the gantry design is based on specific functional and safety standards. These standards cover design, manufacturing, material selection, and even painting.

The Operational Safety and Health Administration provides guidelines for the safe operation of gantry cranes. Both the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the American Welding Society provide guidelines for the construction of gantry cranes, and all cranes and crane suppliers must meet these standards.

When you choose a supplier, you should cooperate with a reputable crane supplier, so that your gantry crane design can meet all regulations and the workplace meets OSHA requirements, which can ensure the safety of your employees.

Related Articles About Crane