Gantry cranes are an increasingly popular alternative to an overhead bridge crane. They can be used indoors or out and are ideal in areas where narrow walkways or space confinements exist. They are typically utilized where building design does not permit an overhead crane or outdoors where no runway exists. Because they do not require a runway structure, they may cost significantly less than an overhead crane, and, can be taken down and moved to a new location if needed. When used inside a facility they can be provided with interlock mechanisms allowing loads to be transferred from the gantry bay to spur lines leading to other parts of the plant or warehouse. They are also ideal when moving loads between the interior and exterior of a building. The bridge on a Gantry is supported by one of two combinations; single leg (semi-gantry) or double leg.
Gantry cranes typically run on floor-mounted ASCE rail or inverted angle iron, however, there are gantry cranes available to run on a smooth concrete floor, which provides unobstructed access to the crane work area by forklifts, work carts and personnel.
