The quick guide to crane types

This type of crane has two overhead runways built into the building’s support structure. A single girder bridge crane design consists of one girder beam supported on each side by an end truck. In a double girder bridge crane design, the bridge consists of two girder beams supported by an end truck on either side. Double girder bridge cranes are used in situations that require heavier capacities and longer spans. Bridge cranes can have the trolley and hoist running on the bottom flange of the runway beam (under running) or on top of the runway beam (top running). Bridge cranes are also known as “girder cranes.”

Top running overhead crane. This is the most common overhead crane solution. Top running cranes run on rails mounted atop a runway beam, giving them more lifting height than an under running crane can offer. (The compromise is they require more overhead space to operate.) The runway system is supported by either engineered columns or building columns. Top running cranes can be designed as either single-girder or double-girder systems. A single-girder top running crane has a typical load capacity up to 20 tons and a typical span of less than 65 ft. A double-girder top running crane has a typical load capacity of up to 400 tons and can typically span more than 65 ft. 

Under running overhead crane. An under running crane is usually supported by the building’s structure and has the trolley and hoist running on the bottom flange of the bridge. The crane is bolted to the I-beam, which gives the crane additional stability. Under running cranes are available in single and double girder designs (single is more common) and with profile or box beam construction. In multi-span applications, more end trucks can be added to reduce the weight of the crane structure. These cranes are also known as “underhung.”

Process crane. A process crane is a way to describe any heavy duty bridge crane that is carefully engineered to perform a specific function, such as constant high capacity lifts. Process cranes are typically double girder top running bridge cranes designed to high specifications (CMMA, AIST #6) and are Class E and F cranes. They maximize reliability and safety, so are often called for when the task the crane will perform is critical to production. They can also be highly customized with state-of-the-art functionality, such as automated drives, collision avoidance systems, overload sensors, remote monitoring and below-the-hook lifting devices. Process cranes are sometimes called "custom engineered cranes."

Modular crane. This is a term used to describe any lighter duty overhead crane that’s suitable for applications that don’t require much customization or special add-ons. They’re usually Class A, B or C cranes and consist of a base-level hoist, trolley and bridge. They can be top running or under running, depending on headroom. The bridge, which is fabricated to meet the requirements of the application, can be single or double girder. The modular crane is an economical solution for smaller manufacturing, mills and machine shops. These cranes are also known as "pre-engineered" or “kit cranes,” phrases we find slightly misleading. All cranes require at least some engineering and assembly, even if the majority of the components are off-the-shelf, to ensure they’re properly matched to their application.

Workstation crane. A workstation crane is an overhead crane designed to assist workers in moving or lifting loads ergonomically in a smaller, rectangular work area. The goal is to minimize worker effort, increase productivity and improve workflow. These cranes range from light duty and capacity systems that use light extruded structures to heavy, higher capacity systems that use hollow structural section or hot rolled beams. Typical capacities are from 150 to 4,000 lbs. Lighter capacity systems can be basic push-pull systems that are partially or fully powered in all directions.