What Is an Overhead Crane? (CraneVeyor Edition)

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What Is an Overhead Crane? Complete Guide for Industrial Lifting Applications

An overhead crane—also known as a bridge crane—is a type of industrial lifting equipment used to move heavy loads safely and efficiently throughout a facility. Unlike forklifts or mobile cranes, an overhead crane operates on fixed runways installed at ceiling level, giving operators full control over material handling without occupying valuable floor space.

Overhead cranes are essential in manufacturing plants, steel warehouses, aerospace facilities, machine shops, and any environment where heavy loads must be lifted, positioned, or transported with precision.

At CraneVeyor Corp, we design, manufacture, and install custom overhead crane systems engineered for your exact lifting requirements—including top-running bridge cranes, under-running cranes, workstation cranes, gantry cranes, and jib cranes.

⭐ How an Overhead Crane Works

An overhead crane consists of several key components that work together to lift and move loads:

✔ Bridge

The horizontal beam that spans the runway system. It supports the hoist and trolley.

✔ Runway Beams

Steel beams mounted to column structures or ceiling trusses that allow the bridge to travel the full length of the building.

✔ Hoist

The lifting device (electric wire rope or chain hoist) that raises and lowers the load.

✔ Trolley

Moves the hoist side to side across the bridge.

✔ End Trucks

Connect the bridge to the runway and allow it to move smoothly up and down the bay.

✔ Controls

Pendant control, radio remote control, or cab-operated systems.

⭐ Types of Overhead Cranes

Different facilities require different crane configurations. CraneVeyor provides all major types of overhead cranes:

1. Top-Running Bridge Cranes

  • Highest lifting capacities (1 Ton–100+ Tons)
  • Ideal for heavy manufacturing
  • Travels on top of the runway beams
  • Offers maximum hook height

2. Under-Running (Underhung) Bridge Cranes

  • Great for low-headroom buildings
  • Runs on the bottom flange of the runway beam
  • Frequently used in manufacturing cells

3. Single-Girder and Double-Girder Cranes

  • Single-girder: cost-effective, common for 1–10 ton ranges
  • Double-girder: higher capacities, added lifting height, more stability

4. Workstation Crane Systems

  • Lightweight enclosed track systems
  • Excellent ergonomic performance
  • Typically 250 lbs – 2 Tons

5. Jib Cranes

  • 180°–360° rotation
  • Perfect for localized work areas

6. Gantry Cranes

  • Portable or fixed
  • Run on floor-mounted rails instead of overhead runways

⭐ Typical Industries That Use Overhead Cranes

Overhead cranes are used across almost all industrial sectors:

  • Steel service centers
  • Aerospace & defense
  • Warehousing & distribution
  • Automotive manufacturing
  • Fabrication shops
  • Foundries
  • Utility & power plants
  • Machinery assembly
  • Concrete & precast plants
  • Ports & shipyards

CraneVeyor has engineered systems for hundreds of facilities across California and the U.S. for over 75+ years.

⭐ Benefits of Using an Overhead Crane

✔ Increased Productivity

Move heavy loads faster and more efficiently.

✔ Improved Safety

Reduces forklift traffic and minimizes worker injury risk.

✔ Better Space Utilization

Overhead cranes free up floor space for production.

✔ Reduced Labor Costs

Automation and precise movement streamline processes.

✔ Long-Term Durability

Engineered for continuous, heavy-duty service in harsh environments.

⭐ How to Choose the Right Overhead Crane

Consider the following factors when selecting a crane:

  • Capacity (Tons)
  • Span / Runway Length
  • Lifting Height (Hook Height / OAH)
  • Building Height & Headroom
  • CMAA Class (C, D, E, etc.)
  • Power requirements (230V/460V/575V)
  • Usage frequency
  • Environment (indoor, outdoor, hazardous location)

CraneVeyor’s engineering team provides site visits, load calculations, 3D layouts, and PE-stamped drawings to ensure the crane meets OSHA and CMAA standards.

⭐ CraneVeyor Corp: Complete Overhead Crane Solutions

We provide turnkey overhead crane systems, including:

  • Engineering & design
  • Manufacturing
  • Runway systems & structural steel
  • Installation & load testing
  • Modernizations
  • Service & inspections
  • Replacement hoists & trolleys
  • Radio controls & VFD upgrades

Whether you’re installing a new crane or upgrading an existing one, CraneVeyor delivers reliable systems built for long-term performance.

⭐ Get a Quote for an Overhead Crane

If you need a 1-Ton, 5-Ton, 10-Ton, custom capacity, single girder, or double girder overhead crane, our team will help you design the perfect solution for your facility.

📞 (626) 442-1524
🌐 https://craneveyor.com/contact-us

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