Double girder cranes are essential in heavy industrial operations, offering superior strength and lifting capabilities compared to single girder cranes. In this guide, we’ll explore what a double girder crane is, how its girder functions, and its typical capacity.
1. What Is a Double Girder Crane?
A double girder crane is an overhead crane with two parallel girders (steel beams) that support the bridge and trolley system. This design provides greater strength, stability, and lifting capacity than single girder cranes, making it ideal for heavy-duty industrial applications.
Key Features of Double Girder Cranes:
- Two girders for enhanced load distribution.
- Higher lifting heights since the hoist sits between the girders rather than below them.
- Increased hook height due to the elevated girder structure.
- Greater durability for heavy loads and frequent use.
Double girder cranes are commonly used in steel mills, shipyards, power plants, and other industries requiring heavy lifting.
Related Content: Single Girder vs. Double Girder Cranes: Key Differences
2. What Does a Crane Girder Do?
The girder in a crane is the primary horizontal beam that supports the trolley and hoist, enabling the crane to lift and move heavy loads across a workspace.
Functions of a Crane Girder:
- Supports the bridge structure and distributes the load weight.
- Provides a track for the trolley and hoist to move horizontally.
- Enhances stability to prevent bending or deflection under heavy loads.
- Works with end trucks to allow the crane to move along the runway.
In a double girder crane, having two girders increases the crane’s rigidity and allows for larger spans and heavier capacities.
Supporting Video:
How a Crane Girder Works – Animated Explanation
Related Content: Types of Crane Girders and Their Applications
3. What Is the Capacity of a Double Girder Crane?
The capacity of a double girder crane typically ranges from 5 tons to over 500 tons, depending on design, span, and application.
Factors Affecting Capacity:
- Span length – Longer spans may reduce maximum capacity.
- Girder material – High-strength steel allows for heavier loads.
- Hoist type – Wire rope hoists handle more weight than chain hoists.
- Duty cycle – Frequent heavy lifting may require reinforced components.
Typical Capacities by Industry:
| Industry | Typical Capacity Range |
|---|---|
| Manufacturing | 5 – 50 tons |
| Steel Production | 50 – 300 tons |
| Shipbuilding | 100 – 500+ tons |
Related Content: How to Choose the Right Crane Capacity for Your Needs
Conclusion
Double girder cranes are powerful lifting solutions for heavy industries, offering superior load capacity, stability, and durability. Understanding their structure, girder function, and capacity helps in selecting the right crane for your needs.
For more details, explore our related guides or contact our experts for a customized crane solution!