Rigging Terminology

Last week we discussed different types of cranes and focused on hydraulic cranes. At Lee, we specialize in using our portable gantry cranes to move machinery and equipment. So how does a gantry crane system differ from a mobile crane?

A gantry crane is a type of overhead crane supported by freestanding legs that move on wheels or along a track or rail system. Gantry cranes are usually considered when there is a reason not to incorporate an overhead runway system. Unlike a bridge crane, a gantry crane does not need to be tied into a building’s support structure—eliminating the need for permanent runway beams and support columns. In some cases, this can result in a significant reduction in material costs and can be a more cost-effective solution compared to a similarly specified bridge crane. Larger gantry systems may run on a rail or track embedded in the ground, typically in a straight line in a dedicated work area. Smaller portable gantry systems run on castors or wheels and can be moved about a facility for maintenance or light fabrication work.

Rigging Terms

• Portable Gantry Crane System – Portable gantry cranes are smaller lighter-duty gantry systems that run on casters or rubber wheels. These wheels allow the user to move it throughout a facility to handle various materials or loads. When they’re empty and not under load, they can be moved or stored anywhere throughout a shop or into different work cells to offer greater space-saving and floor space flexibility.
• Semi-Gantry Crane System – Gantry cranes can also be designed with one leg riding on wheels or rails and the other side of the crane riding on a runway system connected to building columns or a sidewall of the building structure. These are advantageous because they can save you floor space / workspace. Unlike a bridge crane, this setup doesn’t need two runways supported by or tied back to building columns.
• Shackle – A type of device normally used for lifting.
• Sling – Wire ropes, chains, or synthetic fabric made into forms, with or without fittings, for handling loads.
• Tag Line – A length of rope used to guide a load that is being lifted into the desired position.
• Rigging Hook – A hook used as part of tackle. Any hook used in hoisting and rigging that is not the “primary hook” or main “load hook.”

Lee Contracting In-House Cranes

Lee Contracting’s in-house equipment includes cranes with capacities up to 300 tons and gantries with capacities up to 1,200 tons. We can complete your industrial project no matter the size or complexity. Not only can we complete any of your crane needs, we provide full turn-key solutions to assist with shutdown, start-up, hookups, maintenance and more.

Receive your free quote today or call us today at (888) 833-8776 to learn how we can complete your next industrial project.