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Single-beam vs. double-beam cranes: What are the surprising differences between these two cranes?
In industrial environments, overhead cranes are a common type of crane, mainly used to move heavy objects in manufacturing and maintenance work. This crane mechanism consists of two parallel tracks, which are fixed to steel columns, and the bridge across these support points can move freely. Depending on their structure, overhead cranes can be divided into two types: single-beam and double-beam. The difference between the two lies not only in the structural design, but also in their load-bearing capacity and application areas.
Single girder cranes are the most common type of overhead crane and are usually used for light-duty applications with a load capacity of less than 10 tons.
Single beam crane
The single beam type has a simple design and is very popular for light-duty industrial environments that require daily use due to its high efficiency and ease of operation. Despite its relatively low carrying capacity, single-girder cranes can fully demonstrate their advantages in some light handling tasks, especially in confined spaces.
Double girder crane
In contrast, double-girder cranes are used for heavier applications, with a load capacity of up to 125 tonnes, and their centre of gravity allows the hook to move vertically up and down between the two beams, increasing the lift height. In large factories or construction sites, this type of crane is able to handle heavier loads and provide longer spans.
Double girder cranes have been developed to enable heavy-duty applications to be brought to a higher level of efficiency, with the flexibility of their design supporting the needs of many industries.
Other types of cranes
In addition to single-beam and double-beam cranes, there are also types such as suspension cranes, revolving cranes and polar cranes. Suspension cranes are typically mounted on a building’s ceiling, which provides additional floor space but can limit their lifting capacity. The structural designs of rotary cranes and polar cranes also have their own characteristics, suitable for different industries and needs.
Polar cranes are widely used in nuclear power plants because their design is well suited to fit the round steam pressure vessels.
Application areas of cranes
These cranes are widely used in the refining and processing of steel and other metals. In every step of the manufacturing process, from the pouring of raw materials to the transportation of finished products, almost all of them require the assistance of cranes. For example, the automotive industry also frequently uses cranes to handle raw materials, while in paper mills, cranes are used to repair large equipment that needs to be removed.
Historical BackgroundIn construction, the use of cranes makes the installation of many large equipment more convenient, which can effectively offset the construction cost of bridge cranes.
The history of cranes dates back to 1876 when the first electric crane was used at the Royal Arsenal in London. Since then, crane technology has continued to develop, with subsequent cable crane designs, such as those still used in many heavy commercial applications, resulting in significant improvements in crane weight and guiding arrangements.
ConclusionToday, there are multiple governing bodies in the crane industry in the North American market, which are constantly carrying out technological reforms to promote the development of the industry.
These cranes play an integral role in diverse industrial applications and changes in their design reflect the evolution of modern industrial needs. Faced with ever-changing market demands, what breakthroughs and improvements do you think there will be in crane technology in the future?
