Rubber tyred gantry crane

What is a Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane?

A Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane (RTG) is a mobile crane featuring a steel framework mounted on rubber tires. It consists of a horizontal girder supported by legs with wheels, enabling it to straddle cargo containers, machinery, or bulk materials. Unlike rail-mounted gantry cranes (RMGs), RTGs operate freely on flat surfaces, offering unmatched flexibility.

Key Features

• Mobility: Rubber tires allow movement across yards, workshops, or docks.
• Load Capacity: Typically 30–200 tons, with some models exceeding 500 tons.
• Lifting Height: Adjustable booms or spreaders for stacking containers or heavy loads.
• Customization: Modular designs for specific industries (e.g., container handling, steel coil lifting).

Advantages of RTGs

• No Rail Dependency: Reduced infrastructure costs.
• High Maneuverability: Ideal for congested or multi-use spaces.
• Rapid Deployment: Quickly relocated to meet operational demands.

A. Manufacturing Industry

• Heavy Machinery Handling: Lift and position industrial equipment like turbines, presses, or CNC machines.
• Assembly Line Support: Transport large components between production stages.

B. Precast Concrete Production

• Slab and Beam Handling: Move precast concrete elements from molds to storage yards.
• Stacking Operations: Organize finished products vertically to optimize yard space.

C. Construction Industry

• Steel Girder Installation: Position structural beams during bridge or high-rise construction.
• Material Yard Management: Manage rebar, pipes, and scaffolding supplies.

D. Steel Industry

• Coil and Plate Handling: Transport steel coils (up to 50 tons) between storage and processing lines.
• Slab Handling: Move hot or cold slabs in rolling mills.

E. Shipyards and Marine Industry

• Ship Assembly: Lift ship sections, engines, or propellers during construction.
• Port Operations: Load/unload containers, heavy machinery, or project cargo from vessels.

Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes (RTGs) are versatile lifting solutions designed for mobility and adaptability across industries. Below are four common types available for sale, each tailored to specific operational needs:

Single Beam Rubber Tyre Gantry Crane

This lightweight RTG features a single main girder supported by rubber-tired legs. Ideal for light to medium loads (1–20 tons), it excels in workshops, warehouses, and small manufacturing units. Its compact design allows easy navigation in narrow spaces, while electric or hydraulic drives ensure smooth operation. Applications include handling machinery parts, palletized goods, and light containers.

Double Beam Rubber Tyred Gantry Crane

Equipped with dual girders for enhanced strength, this crane handles heavy-duty loads (20–500+ tons). The double-beam structure provides superior stability and span capabilities (up to 40 meters), making it suitable for steel mills, ports, and construction sites. Features like anti-sway systems and customizable spreaders enable precise handling of steel coils, shipping containers, and oversized machinery.

A-Frame Rubber Tire Gantry Crane

Distinguished by its A-shaped leg configuration, this crane offers exceptional balance and vertical clearance. It is commonly used in precast concrete yards, aerospace facilities, and shipbuilding docks. The A-frame design minimizes ground obstruction, allowing easy access to low-profile loads like concrete panels or aircraft components. Load capacities typically range from 10–100 tons.

Straddle Carrier Gantry Crane

Designed for rapid container and cargo transport, straddle carriers feature a high-clearance frame that “straddles” loads. They combine RTG mobility with straddle carrier functionality, ideal for busy ports, intermodal terminals, and logistics hubs. With capacities up to 50 tons, they efficiently stack and move containers, trailers, or heavy equipment over short distances.

Choosing the Right Type

• Light/Medium Loads: Opt for single-beam RTGs.
• Heavy Industrial Use: Double-beam models provide robustness.
• Specialized Handling: A-frame or straddle carriers address niche requirements.

By matching crane type to operational demands, businesses enhance efficiency and safety in dynamic environments.

Step 1: Define Your Lifting Requirements

• Load Capacity: Calculate maximum weight (include dynamic forces from movement).
• Span and Height: Ensure the crane can straddle and lift over obstacles.

Step 2: Consider the Type of Loads

• Containers: Opt for spreaders and telescopic booms.
• Bulk Materials: Choose grab attachments or magnet systems.

Step 3: Evaluate Mobility and Steering

• Tire Type: Pneumatic tires for rough terrain vs. solid rubber for paved surfaces.
• Steering Mode: Prioritize crab or all-wheel steering for tight spaces.

Step 4: Choose Between Electric or Hydraulic Drive Systems

• Electric RTGs: Lower noise and maintenance; ideal for indoor use.
• Hydraulic RTGs: Higher power for heavy-duty outdoor applications.

Step 5: Assess the Operational Environment

• Weather Conditions: Anti-corrosion coatings for coastal areas; heated cabins for cold climates.
• Ground Conditions: Reinforced tires for gravel or uneven surfaces.

A. Pre-Operation Checks

• Inspect tires for wear or punctures.
• Verify hydraulic fluid levels and wire rope integrity.
• Test emergency stop systems and alarms.

B. Safe Operating Procedures

• Load Handling:
  • Center the load under the hook to prevent tipping.
  • Avoid sudden starts/stops to minimize sway.
• Mobility:
  • Use spotters when reversing in crowded areas.
  • Reduce speed on wet or uneven surfaces.

C. Shutdown Protocol

• Lower the hook to the ground.
• Engage parking brakes and stabilizers.
• Lock control panels to prevent unauthorized use.

Q1: What are the advantages of using a rubber tyred gantry crane?

• Flexibility: No fixed rails needed; easily repositioned.
• Cost Efficiency: Lower infrastructure investment than RMGs.
• Versatility: Adaptable to diverse loads and environments.

Q2: What is the difference between RTG and rail-mounted gantry (RMG) cranes?

• RTG: Mobile on rubber tires; suitable for multi-use yards.
• RMG: Fixed on rails; higher precision for container terminals.

Q3: Can RTGs operate in different weather conditions?

• Yes: Models with weatherproofing (IP65 enclosures, anti-slip tires) handle rain, snow, or heat.

Q4: What is the primary function of a rubber tyred gantry crane?

• To lift, transport, and position heavy loads in environments requiring mobility and adaptability.

Q5: What maintenance is required for rubber tyred gantry cranes?

• Daily: Check tires, brakes, and hydraulic lines.
• Monthly: Lubricate joints and inspect wire ropes.
• Annually: Overhaul motors and load-test the crane.