What are the differences between electric single-beam cranes and bridge cranes?

The main differences between electric single-beam cranes and bridge cranes are structural design, load-bearing capacity, working span and application scenarios. The specific differences are as follows:

Structural differences

‌Electric single-beam crane: It adopts a single main beam structure, usually composed of I-steel or a combined cross-section, and the electric hoist is directly suspended under the main beam to run.

‌Bridge cranes: Most of them are double-main beam bridge structures, equipped with independent cranes (including winches or electric hoists), which move horizontally along the bridge rails.

‌Load-bearing capacity‌

Electric single beam crane: Low load capacity, suitable for light lifting (usually ≤ 20 tons), limited by the single beam structure, and has weak stability.

Bridge crane: Stronger bearing capacity, can cover lifting weights of tens of tons to hundreds of tons, and the double-beam structure provides higher stability and safety.

‌Span and Coverage‌

‌Electric single-beam crane: The span is small, suitable for scenes with limited space such as workshops and warehouses, and the coverage is narrow.

Bridge crane: The span is large, and can cover a wide operating area such as factories and docks to meet the needs of large-scale lifting.

Applicable scenarios

‌Electric single beam crane‌: Flexible and economical, suitable for light work, frequent movement or limited budget scenarios (such as small workshops, maintenance operations).

Bridge crane: Stability and heavy load are preferred, and are suitable for large factories and ports where heavy materials need to be frequently lifted.

‌Cost and Maintenance‌

‌Electric single-beam crane: easy to install, low maintenance cost, but low long-term reliability.

‌Bridge crane: The initial installation is complex and costly, but the long-term operation stability is better.

‌Summary: ‌Select based on the requirements of lifting weight, operating space and budget‌. Single beams are preferred for lightweight and small space scenarios; bridge cranes are required for heavy-load and large-span scenarios.