Selection of Crane : Top running single girder

A bridge crane runs on an elevated runway system along the length of a factory, and

provides three axis of hook motion (X, Y, and Z). The hoist moves the load up and down, the

trolley moves the load right and left, and the bridge of the crane moves the load forward and

backward.

A Bridge Crane system consists of three major components;

1. the Bridge Crane, which traverses across the runway

2. the hoist & trolley, which traverses across the bridge and lifts up and down
3. the runway, which is tied to the building structure.

Figure 1: A bridge crane diagram Figure 2: Top running single girder diagram

We have decided to choose top running single girder because of its great advantages and
suitable for our design. With capacities from 1 up to 5 tons and spans of up to 58 feet, single girder
cranes make material handling easy and safe. Single Girder Cranes are typically the most economical
choice for light to medium duty bridge cranes. Single girder is also cheaper than a double girder
model. The advantages of single girder cranes (as compared to double girder) include economy and
slightly lower loads delivered into the building or foundations. The crane's main girder is above the
hoist, therefore reducing the available hook height in a given facility. The hoist trolley wheels ride on
the relatively soft steel of the main girder bottom flange, therefore, the life expectancy of the
structural beam is limited. The trolley mechanical components are often less durable when compared
to double girder top running trolleys. Special features are often difficult to incorporate into single
girder cranes i.e. service walks, lights, fast speeds, heavy service components, etc. Light weight =
lower wheel loads (less building steel). Low head room monorail hoist. Ease of maintenance. Ease of
installation.