What are the differences between gantry cranes and bridge cranes?

Gantry cranes (also known as gantry cranes) and bridge cranes are two common lifting equipment, and they have significant differences in their structure, application scenarios and functional characteristics. Here are the main differences between the two:

1. Structural and Appearance Differences

‌gan crane‌:

The metal structure is a door-shaped frame, and two legs are installed below the main beam to walk directly on the ground track. Extended cantilever beams are often equipped with extension and extension beams at both ends. Its design resembles a "door", and the top beam supports both sides of the columns, which is suitable for sites with large spans and high heights.

‌Bridge crane‌:

Both ends are mounted on tall cement columns or metal brackets, which are shaped like bridges, and the bridge frame moves longitudinally along the elevated track. Its structure consists of bridges and support beams spanning the working area, which is suitable for closed space operations.

2. Application scenario differences

‌gan crane‌:

It is mainly used in outdoor sites (such as freight yards, docks, ports), and is suitable for loading and unloading large goods (such as containers, steel). It has a large load-bearing capacity and adapts to high spans and high-altitude needs.

‌Bridge crane‌:

It is mainly used in closed places such as indoor factories and warehouses. It is suitable for loading and unloading small to medium-sized goods (such as plates and mechanical parts). It is flexible in operation and suitable for narrow spaces.

3. Functional characteristics differences

‌gan crane‌:

High site utilization rate and large operating range.

Strong versatility and adapt to complex environments.

Commonly used in large-scale open-air operations such as port freight yards.

‌Bridge crane‌:

Make full use of the space under the bridge and be free from ground equipment.

Strong lateral movement ability, suitable for material lifting.

4. Other differences

‌gan crane‌ is a deformation of bridge cranes, but the original intentions of the two are different: gantry cranes pay more attention to outdoor adaptability, while bridge cranes focus on indoor operations.

‌Summary: When choosing a crane, you must consider comprehensively based on the working environment (indoor/outdoor), cargo type (large/small and medium-sized) and space requirements (span, height). Gantry cranes are suitable for large open-air operations, while bridge cranes are more suitable for indoor lifting.