50 Ton Heavy Duty Gantry Crane

A 50 Ton gantry crane provides a robust lifting solution for heavy industrial loads. These cranes are commonly used in ports, rail yards, shipyards, and outdoor manufacturing facilities for container handling and heavy-duty lifting. In container terminals, a rail-mounted 50 ton gantry crane runs on fixed rails to stack and move shipping containers. For flexible container yards, a 50 ton rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) crane travels on large tires rather than rails. Other designs include 50 ton truss gantry cranes (with lattice-style main beams for extra height), double-girder gantry cranes (two parallel beams for higher capacity and longer spans), and U-type double girder gantry cranes (with an open "U" shape to straddle container stacks). Each type is engineered to handle 50 ton loads with safety and reliability under standards like CE, ISO, and OSHA. For example, double-girder cranes use welded box girders made of high-strength steel (Q235B/Q345B) with submerged-arc welding and non-destructive testing. Gantry cranes must include safety features such as travel-limit switches, load/height limiters, and anti-collision devices to comply with OSHA rules (which require hoist brakes rated at 125% of full-load torque, or 100% when dual brakes are used).

Models of 50 Ton Gantry Cranes

Gantry cranes come in several 50-ton variants to suit different workplaces. Below are the key models:

1. 50 Ton Rail-Mounted Gantry Crane (Container Handling)

A rail-mounted gantry crane has rigid steel legs on fixed rails. It travels along a straight runway to lift and move loads. In container terminals or open yards, these cranes have high spans (often 20–40 m) and high lifts to stack containers. Rail gantries use double-girder or single-girder beams and are designed for frequent, heavy cycles. They often run on dedicated rails and may use two or more hoist trolleys to spread the load. Advantages include precise travel on the rails, high stability, and the ability to handle multiple loads with tandem winches.

2. 50 Ton Rubber-Tyred Gantry Crane (RTG) (Container Handling)

A rubber-tyred gantry (RTG) crane is a mobile port crane on large rubber tires. RTGs are popular in container yards because they can move freely (no rails) to pick up and stack containers. A 50 ton RTG has a steel frame with a lifting trolley and hoist, and four or more pneumatic tires driven by onboard engines. The hoist trolley travels on the crane’s main beam to lift containers. RTGs typically include hydraulic chassis for leveling, wind-speed monitors, and clamps on tires to improve traction. These cranes offer high flexibility and low infrastructure cost, though they consume fuel and require battery or diesel power.

3. 50 Ton Truss Gantry Crane (Outdoor Lifting)

A truss gantry crane uses open lattice (truss) girders for the main beam. This design is lighter for a given span and provides extra headroom. Truss cranes are well-suited for outdoor lifting of long steel members, precast concrete beams, or infrastructure components. Like rail gantries, they usually travel on rails. The truss structure resists bending and wind loads, making it useful for high spans appliction. Truss gantries often have enclosed cab controls on top of the beam.

4. 50 Ton Double Girder Gantry Crane

A double girder gantry crane has two parallel main beams supported on tall legs. This robust design handles heavy loads and frequent duty cycles. Double-girder cranes typically use overhead traveling trolleys with wire rope hoists that run on the top flanges of the girders. For 50 ton capacity, the girders are often box-section steel with automatic submerged-arc welding and cambered (slightly curved) top surfaces for even load distribution. Double-girder cranes offer higher lifting heights (the hook clears the main beam) and can accommodate two hoists or a large single hoist. Common in steel mills and shipyards, they feature separate drives on each leg (dual-motor or even triple drives) for reliability.

5. 50 Ton U-Type Double Girder Gantry Crane

A U-type gantry crane is a specialized double-girder crane designed for container terminals. Its main beams form a wide "U" shape, with the legs set back and outward to straddle container rows. The open center allows containers to enter under the crane, enabling direct pickup from stacked tiers or yard vehicles. The U-type construction provides a large clear width between legs while keeping full structural strength. Like other double-girder cranes, it has trolleys on the beams for lifting equipment (spreader or hook).

Yuantai 50 Ton Gantry Crane

50 Ton Truss Gantry Crane for Outdoor Lifting

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50 Ton Double Girder Gantry Crane

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50 Ton U-Type Double Girder Gantry Crane

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50 Ton Rail-mounted Gantry Crane

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50 Ton Rubber-tyred Gantry Crane

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Technical Standards

50 ton gantry cranes are built to rigorous international standards. They commonly carry ISO 9001 quality certification and CE marking for European markets. Core components (motors, gearboxes, bearings) are selected to meet ISO and ASTM specifications for load handling. In the U.S., OSHA’s 29 CFR 1910.179 sets safety rules for overhead and gantry cranes. For example, OSHA requires hoist holding brakes to be rated at 125% of the motor’s full-load torque (or 100% if a dual-brake system is used). Gantry cranes must also include emergency stops, travel limit switches, and anti-two-block devices. Many manufacturers follow CMAA (Crane Manufacturers Association of America) recommended practices for crane classification and inspections. For instance, CMAA duty classifications ensure the crane is designed for the expected service class and cycle count. Wind speed limits for outdoor cranes often follow ISO 4306-10 or local building codes. Overall, a 50 ton gantry crane meets or exceeds standards like ISO, ANSI, CMAA, and OSHA to ensure safe operation.

Components

50 ton gantry cranes consist of key components engineered for heavy loads:

• Main Girders: The horizontal beams (girders) form the backbone of the crane. They are typically welded steel box sections (or truss assemblies) designed to handle bending loads. Double-girder cranes have two parallel girders; single-girder models have one. Materials are high-grade structural steel (e.g. Q235B/Q345B) with automatic submerged-arc welding. Girders are often cambered (slightly arched upward) per standards to compensate for sagging under load. U-type cranes have a wide U-shaped girder configuration to clear containers between the legs.

• Gantry Legs and Carriages: Each end of the crane has support legs. Rail-mounted cranes have wheels or trucks on these legs that run on rails. Wheels are usually large forgings or pressed steel with high-strength bolts. Some double-girder cranes use multiple wheels ("trinity drive") on each leg for heavy loads. RTG cranes replace fixed legs with an entire truck chassis: hydraulic leveling legs and steerable rubber tires allow the crane to drive around the yard. Truss cranes use rigid lattice columns connected to the truss girder.

• Travel Drives: Each gantry leg has a motor and gearbox to drive the wheels. Modern cranes use AC gear motors with variable-frequency drive for smooth motion. Most 50T cranes have dual independent drives (one per leg) for safety. Controls allow the crane to run along the rails. RTGs use diesel or battery-powered engines driving the axle wheels; they include steering and braking systems for mobility and stability (some RTGs also have hydrostatic front-wheel drive).

• Trolley and Hoist: The hoisting unit moves on rails across the girder(s). Double-girder cranes mount the trolley on rails on top of the girders. The trolley carries the hoisting mechanism (typically a wire-rope hoist or spreader frame). Chain hoists are less common at 50 ton; wire rope hoists with multiple falls of wire rope are standard. Hoists include drum, wire rope, hook block, and braking system. The lifting mechanism often has redundant brakes and thermal monitoring per OSHA 1910.179 requirements. For container cranes, the trolley may attach a spreader that locks into corner castings of a container.

• Electrical System and Controls: A power cable reel or busbar supplies electricity to the crane. Indoor and rail cranes usually use 380/400V 3-phase power; outdoor RTGs often have onboard diesel generators or batteries. The control system includes pendant stations, remote radio controls, or operator cabins with joysticks. Safety interlocks and grounding are standard. Motors and drives comply with IEC or NEMA design. 50T cranes have limit switches on the hoist (to prevent over-travel of hook), trolley travel, and crane travel. Controls feature emergency-stop buttons and may include PLCs for advanced functions (overload protection, sequencing).

• Safety Devices: Important safety components include limit switches (upper and lower hoist travel, trolley ends, gantry travel ends) and overload sensors. Cranes have load weight sensors or rated capacity limiters to warn or stop if capacity is exceeded. Position sensors and alarm systems prevent collisions between multiple cranes on the same runway. Other devices often fitted are end buffers on the rails, anti-two-block stoppers (to prevent the hook hitting the boom), and rail clamps that engage when the crane is not moving. Outdoor cranes use weatherproofing (rain shields on electrical panels, lightning protection). Many 50T cranes include photocells or ultrasonic anti-collision sensors. For personnel safety, handrails and anti-skid surfaces are installed on footwalks, ladders, and platforms as per OSHA.

Features

50 ton gantry cranes offer features tailored for heavy lifting tasks:

• High Capacity & Stability: The double-girder or truss design provides a very rigid structure capable of handling heavy loads with minimal deflection. Welded steel construction and precision machining ensure even load distribution.

• Custom Span and Height: Cranes can be built with custom spans and lifting heights. Customers specify span and height based on bay width and required hook clearance. All spans and heights can be customized to site requirements.

• Variable Speed Drives: Modern variable-frequency drives enable smooth start/stop motion for both hoisting and travel. This allows precise positioning of loads and reduces mechanical stress. Drives often include regenerative or dynamic braking that meets control braking standards.

• Multiple Operating Modes: Operators can control the crane from a floor-level pendant or remote control, or from an elevated cabin with joystick controls. Some models offer automated or semi-automated handling for container loading.

• Robust Safety: As noted above, built-in safety devices exceed basic requirements. For example, a 50T crane may include dual brakes, phase-loss protection, wind-speed interlocks, and multiple limit switches. Alarm lights and horns signal crane motion to surrounding workers.

• Weather Resistance: For outdoor use, components are corrosion-resistant and motors are IP-rated. Electric panels are gasketed. If operating in cold climates, heaters and special lubricants can be provided.

• Efficiency and Low Maintenance: Overhead travel wheels are grease-lubricated and long-lasting. Bearings and gears are high-quality (e.g. NSK/FAG bearings). Lubrication points and access platforms allow quick servicing. Many designs adopt proven components (e.g. European motors, Schneider electrical parts) to reduce maintenance downtime.

Each model also has specific features. For example, 50T RTGs include hydraulic chassis for leveling and special clamps on tires to prevent wheel slip in high winds. U-type cranes have reinforced end beams to compensate for the wide opening. Truss cranes have diagonal bracing that gives them extra rigidity in crosswind conditions.

Precautions for Use

Safe use of a 50 ton gantry crane requires adherence to guidelines and precautions:

• Load Limits: Never exceed the rated 50 ton capacity. Do not attempt to lift the maximum load at maximum reach without checking structural limits. Cranes often have a safety factor built-in, but operators must observe the load chart for different spans and hoist configurations. OSHA and CMAA both emphasize never operating beyond capacity.

• Even Loading and Balance: Always center the load under the hook or spreader. Uneven or off-center loads can generate moments that stress the crane. Tag lines are recommended for long or swingy loads.

• Wind and Weather: Outdoor gantry cranes must follow wind-speed limits. Most designs have a maximum allowable wind (e.g. 20 m/s) beyond which operation should cease. For RTGs, high winds can tip the crane if not properly anchored. Truss cranes and U-type cranes must lock the hoist and engage rail clamps before a storm.

• Rail and Surface Condition: For rail-mounted cranes, rails must be straight, level, and properly anchored. Any deformation in the rail (gaps, bumps, misalignment) can cause derailment or load sway. RTG cranes require flat, firm yard surfaces to roll safely.

• Personnel Safety: Ensure all workers are clear of the lift area. Never stand or pass under a suspended load. Use the crane’s horn or light signals before moving. OSHA requires proper training for operators and signal persons.

• Inspection Before Use: Before each shift, inspect the crane. Check wire ropes for wear or kinking, verify limit switches work, examine brakes and clutches, and listen for unusual noises. Inspect end stops and buffers. OSHA 1910.179 suggests daily walk-around checks.

• Safe Operation: Travel the crane at safe speeds, especially with heavy loads. Avoid sudden starts or stops with a lifted load. Do not leave a load suspended overnight or unattended. For maintenance, follow lockout/tagout procedures: controllers off, main switch open/locked, and warning tags placed on the crane.

• Environment: Ensure adequate lighting. For container yards, ground markings or guiding lines help position containers. Be aware of overhead power lines or nearby cranes on adjacent runways (provide minimum clearance or collision prevention as required by OSHA.

Model Selection Guidelines

Choosing the right 50 ton gantry crane depends on your application:

• Infrastructure: If you have permanent rails and a fixed long runway, a rail-mounted gantry is efficient and cost-effective. If you need flexibility or have multiple work areas, an RTG or mobile gantry is better. Ensure floor loading is sufficient to bear wheel loads (rail wheels can exert >10 tons/wheel.

• Environment: For indoor or sheltered use (factories, warehouses), a double-girder crane or truss crane is common. For outdoor terminals, corrosion protection and weatherproofing are priorities. If working in corrosive or chemical atmospheres, ask for special materials.

• Span and Height: Determine the needed span (distance between legs) and lifting height (hook clearance plus lift). We can customize spans up to 40 m and heights over 20 m. U-type cranes require extra span to straddle containers. Truss cranes allow very large spans with reduced weight.

• Duty Cycle: Consider how often and how fast the crane will operate. High-frequency use (e.g. container yards) may require a heavier-duty classification (CMAA Class C or D). Lighter use (Class A/B) is possible for occasional heavy lifts.

• Power Source: Decide between electric (AC) or diesel power. Rail cranes usually use external power (overhead bus or festoon cable), while RTGs carry diesel generators. Battery-electric RTGs are an option for zero-emission needs.

• Controls: Choose control type: pendant, cabin, or remote. For long travel runs or hot environments, cabins are popular; for short runs, pendant or wireless control is convenient. Automated features (like semi-automated stacking) can be added if required.

As a reputable supplier, Yuantai will help determine the best model and configuration. All 50 ton models can be tailored: "because the working conditions are different, all our products are customized depending on detail requirements". Provide details like required capacity, span, lift height, power supply, and application to get an optimal design.

Maintenance Practices

Proper maintenance keeps a 50 ton gantry crane reliable and safe:

• Preventive Maintenance Program: Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule. OSHA explicitly requires a preventive maintenance program based on the crane’s manual. Typical tasks include lubricating bearings/gears, inspecting wire ropes and hooks, checking brake adjustment, and testing limit switches.

• Routine Inspection: Operators should inspect critical items daily or before use: wire rope condition (no broken wires or kinks), hook and latch integrity, brake response, drive motor function, and fasteners. Monthly or quarterly checks by a qualified technician should include gearbox oil levels, corrosion on structure, and electrical connections.

• Wire Rope & Hoist: Wire rope life depends on usage and environment. Replace it if core is visible, wires are worn or rusted, or after excessive shock loads. Hooks with nicks or stretch must be replaced (OSHA forbids reshaping rusty hooks). Lubricate the rope as recommended to reduce wear.

• Brake and Clutch Adjustment: Brakes may need periodic adjustment for wear. Follow OSHA’s guidance that holding brakes must apply when power is off. Check clutch slippage and friction plates. Foot and hand brakes on travel drives should release when pressure is removed.

• Electrical System: Inspect cables, connections, and insulators. Replace damaged cable insulation promptly. Test limit switches and overload circuits. Verify safety interlocks (e.g. anti-two-block devices) are functioning.

• Rail and Wheels: For rail-mounted cranes, keep rails clean and properly aligned. Check wheel flanges for wear. Ensure end stops and buffers are secure. For RTGs, inspect tyres for cuts and tire pressure (if pneumatic). Check steering and drive components.

• Records: Log all inspections and maintenance actions. Label the crane with next inspection date. This helps meet regulatory and warranty requirements.

If any unsafe condition is found, OSHA requires it be corrected before resuming crane operation. Adjustments and repairs must be done by qualified personnel, with the crane de-energized and locked out (controllers off, main switch open) before work.

Customization Options

50 ton gantry cranes are highly customizable:

• Span & Height: Almost any span and lift can be designed. Customizable spans up to 60 m and heights over 30 m are common. We tailor dimensions to your bay width and ceiling height.

• Controls & Operation: Choose pendant, wired or wireless remote, or operator cabin. We can install single- or multi-speed hoists, and add push-button or joystick panels. Some customers add automation or PLC-based positioning for repetitive lifts.

• Drive & Power: Cranes can be powered by 380V AC, 460V, or other voltages. RTGs can use diesel, battery, or hybrid power. Special drives (explosion-proof motors, frequency converters) are available.

• Auxiliary Equipment: Options include two-hoist systems for tandem lifting, magnet or gripper attachments for special loads, and container spreaders. We can equip cranes with infrared anti-collision sensors or weigh scales.

• Materials & Finish: For extreme conditions we use stainless or high-alloy steel. The paint system can be customized (e.g. marine-grade for ports, or high-visibility colors). Roofing on the gantry can protect personnel from rain.

Every aspect – from buffer type to cabin heating – can be adjusted. Whether you need a container-handling RTG or an industrial double-girder crane, the 50 Ton gantry crane can be engineered to fit your exact operational needs, all while adhering to strict safety and quality standards.

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