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Gantry cranes come in three distinct forms, full gantry crane, semi gantry crane and portable gantry crane.
Types of Gantry Cranes
Full Gantry Crane
This type of gantry crane features a bridge that is supported by two rigid steel legs, each running on a rail at ground level. Full gantry cranes span large areas and are capable of handling heavy loads, often used in outdoor environments like shipyards, rail yards, and large industrial sites. The entire structure moves along a straight path, enabling efficient transport of materials across substantial distances.
Semi Gantry Crane
A semi gantry crane combines features of both the gantry and the bridge crane. It has a single leg running on a rail at ground level on one side, while the other side of the bridge is supported by a runway system elevated like an overhead crane. This design saves space and is suitable for facilities where full gantry cranes may not be feasible. Semi gantry cranes are often used in workshops or facilities where space is limited.
Portable Gantry Crane
Portable gantry cranes are smaller, more flexible systems designed for occasional lifting that requires mobility within a facility. These cranes are typically mounted on wheels or casters and can be moved around without the need for permanent installation. They are ideal for workshops and garages where they can be used to lift engines, heavy machinery, or other materials. Portable gantry cranes are usually manually operated and are not designed for extremely heavy loads, but they offer convenience and flexibility for smaller-scale operations.
Recent Projects
In February 2025, Prolift’s fabrication, service, and installation teams successfully delivered a 5 TON (10,000 lb) semi-gantry crane for a long-standing customer to support the handling of heavy steel sections and feed one of their core production lines.
This project was particularly notable as it marked the first installation in Canada of a Trunenger magnet system on a semi-gantry crane. Prolift engineered, integrated, and fully commissioned both the crane and magnet system, ensuring seamless operation and improved material-handling efficiency for the end user.
The collaborative effort between our in-house fabrication shop and our field teams resulted in a smooth installation, precise alignment, and a reliable turnkey solution tailored to the customer’s production requirements.
FAQ
Yes—semi-gantries run on a fixed floor rail that must be properly aligned and anchored. Prolift can assist with engineering, rail installation, and foundation requirements.
Yes. Full gantry cranes operate on ground-level rails designed to support the wheel loads and crane travel. Prolift provides engineering support for rail selection, installation, and alignment.
Portable gantries can be used outdoors depending on the environment, but they should never be moved while under load for safety reasons unless specifically engineered for that purpose.
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