Gantry crane is a kind of large-scale lifting equipment, which is composed of horizontal main beam, vertical outriggers and traveling mechanism. Its structure is similar to the “door” shape, the main beam across the operating area, the outriggers are supported on the ground or on the track, through electric or hydraulic drive to achieve the lifting, movement and positioning of heavy loads. Gantry cranes have high load capacity, stability and flexibility, and are widely used in shipbuilding, construction, logistics, manufacturing and other fields. In this article, we will analyze the structure of gantry cranes in depth, introduce its key components and different design types to help you better understand its performance and application scenarios.

Modularized design of gantry crane
The main girder and outriggers of gantry cranes adopt modular design, which is divided into a number of sections and connected by node plates and M24B-grade high-strength bolts. This design not only facilitates transportation and dismantling, but also allows for quick assembly and adaptation to different site requirements. According to the actual conditions, users can flexibly combine a variety of spans such as 25m, 20m, 17m, 12m, etc., and different lifting heights such as 16m, 12m, 7m, 3m, etc., to meet diversified operational needs.
Analysis of Key Components
Main girder: as the core load-bearing component of the crane, the main girder is divided into single girder and double girder designs, and gantry cranes above 20 tons usually adopt double girder structure to ensure higher load-bearing capacity and stability. One set of main girder can be installed with 3-10 tons electric hoist to enhance the lifting efficiency of light load objects.
Outriggers (columns): Outriggers connect the main beam with the traveling system and are the load-bearing pillars of the crane, determining the lifting height and overall stability.
Traveling system: Gantry cranes below 16 tons are usually equipped with two active wheels and two passive wheels, powered by two motors and gearboxes, while equipment above 20 tons adopts the design of four active wheels and four passive wheels, equipped with four motors and gearboxes, to ensure safe and smooth operation of large-tonnage cranes.
Hoisting mechanism: including reel set, wire rope and hook set, responsible for realizing vertical lifting of heavy loads.
Rail system: Fixed on the ground, it provides precise guidance for the movement of the crane and ensures the stability of operation.
Diversified types and structural characteristics
Gantry cranes are mainly divided into three types: double girder, tire type and rail type according to different structures and moving methods, each type has its unique advantages.
Double girder gantry crane
Structural characteristics: two horizontal main girders are supported by vertical outriggers, which are fixed on the ground or rail.

- Main girder: two horizontal girders to provide strong support.
- Outriggers: Vertical support to transfer the load to the ground or rail.
- Hoist: moves along the beams to realize heavy lifting.
- Trolley: carries the lifting mechanism and moves horizontally along the beams.
- Advantage: high stability, suitable for heavy lifting tasks.
Rubber Tyre Gantry Crane
- Structural features: equipped with rubber tires, no need for fixed rail, can move freely in the designated area.
- Beam: single or double horizontal beams to support the lifting mechanism.
- Outriggers: fitted with rubber tires for flexible movement.
- Power source: electric or hydraulic system drive.
- Advantage: high mobility, suitable for operation scenarios that require frequent movement.

Rail-mounted gantry crane
Structural characteristics: fixed on the rail, moving precisely along the linear path.
- Beam: Horizontal beam to support the lifting mechanism.
- Outriggers: Equipped with rail wheels to ensure smooth operation.
- Rail: Fixed to the ground, providing precise guidance.
- Advantage: Stable operation, suitable for working environments that require high precision positioning.

Дүгнэлт
The structural design of gantry cranes directly affects their performance and application scenarios. Whether it is a double girder crane for heavy-duty applications or a flexible and mobile tire crane, it can provide users with efficient and safe lifting solutions. As a leading crane manufacturer, we are committed to providing our customers with high-quality, customized crane equipment. For more information or to receive an exclusive proposal, contact us today!