Different Types of Cranes Used in Ports

Different Types of Cranes Used in Ports

June 23, 2022

The bustling world of port operations relies heavily on a variety of specialized machinery to handle the immense loads and diverse tasks involved in loading and unloading vessels. Among these, cranes play a pivotal role in managing the transportation of heavy goods like containers, which can weigh several tons. These machines are equipped with hoists that utilize cables and pulleys to perform their functions effectively. In this article, we will explore the different types of cranes commonly found in ports and how they contribute to the efficiency of port activities.

What are the different types of port cranes?

Ports require a variety of cranes tailored to specific tasks and environments. These cranes are essential for the efficient handling of heavy and bulky goods, such as shipping containers. Each type of crane has unique features that make it suitable for particular operations. Here's an overview of the main categories of port cranes and their applications:

1. Panamax Cranes
2. Post Panamax
3. Super Post Panamax
4. Floating Cranes
5. Bulk Handling Cranes
6. Gantry Cranes
7. Hammerhead Cranes
8. Tower Cranes
9. Deck Cranes
10. Rough Terrain Cranes
11. Overhead Cranes

Panamax Cranes

The term Panamax refers to cranes designed to accommodate ships that can pass through the Panama Canal. These cranes typically extend up to 30 meters in length and can lift loads to a height of 36-38 meters. They can handle up to 13 containers at once, with a single lift capacity of 40-50 tons and a double lift reaching up to 65 tons. With a lifting speed of 50-125 meters per minute, these cranes are ideal for transferring containers between ships and port facilities.

Post Panamax

Post Panamax cranes represent a more advanced generation of port cranes. Larger than Panamax models, they can handle up to 16 containers simultaneously. These cranes have a lifting height of 35 meters and a maximum reach of 45 meters. Their single lift capacity ranges from 40-50 tons, while a double lift can handle up to 65 tons. With a lifting speed of 60-150 meters per minute and a carriage speed of 180-210 meters per minute, these cranes are perfect for servicing ships too large to traverse the Panama Canal.

Super Post Panamax

These cranes are the largest and most powerful currently available, offering unmatched capabilities in port operations. They can support a double lift of up to 65 tons and a tandem lift of 110 tons, with a maximum reach of 53 meters and a lifting height of 40 meters. Equipped with advanced technology, these cranes boast a lifting speed of 70-175 meters per minute, a movement speed of 45 meters per minute, and a carriage speed of 210-240 meters per minute. Their robust design, weighing approximately 180-190 tons, ensures reliability and durability in demanding port environments.

Floating Cranes

Floating cranes are versatile vessels equipped with winches and used primarily for constructing harbors and bridges. They excel in lifting exceptionally heavy objects, often exceeding 10,000 tons. These cranes are also invaluable in recovering sunken ships, thanks to their powerful crane hooks. Their mobility allows them to transport heavy items to specific locations, making them indispensable in complex port operations. Common types include semi-submersible and sheer leg designs.

Bulk-Handling Cranes

Ports require efficient methods for handling vast quantities of bulk materials such as gravel, coal, and grain. Bulk-handling cranes achieve this through the use of grabbing hoists operated via riggings. These cranes are highly efficient in managing materials that are challenging for manual labor or conventional equipment. Available in both mobile and stationary configurations, they can process approximately 2,300 tonnes of material per hour.

Gantry Cranes

Gantry cranes are versatile machines utilized across multiple industries. They come in fixed or adjustable heights and are constructed from either steel or aluminum, depending on their intended application. The standard design includes two upright beams connected by a horizontal beam, with wheels attached to A-shaped frames for mobility. Smaller gantry cranes are often used in construction and port settings for moving large containers. Larger versions find utility in warehouses and similar storage environments.

Hammerhead Cranes

Hammerhead cranes, also known as giant cantilevers, are a common sight in ports. These cranes feature a tall steel tower supporting a double cantilevered jib equipped with a lifting trolley and crane hook. The jib extends backward, aiding in weight distribution and stability. The hammerhead crane system operates with a racking motion enabling smooth back-and-forth movement of the trolley, minimizing interference with the load's height. These cranes are available in massive sizes and can lift loads exceeding 350 tons.

 

Tower Cranes

Tower cranes are modern balancing cranes anchored to the ground, combining excellent lifting capacity with height. They are commonly used in shipyard construction and port operations to elevate containers to great heights. Some models can reach up to 1,000 meters in height with a base diameter of approximately 3.5 meters.

Deck Cranes

Deck cranes are installed on ships or boats and are primarily used for cargo handling, including loading and unloading operations. These machines are particularly useful in areas without dedicated unloading equipment. Most deck cranes operate hydraulically, using either electric or diesel-hydraulic systems.

Rough Terrain Cranes

Designed for rough terrains, rough terrain cranes are mounted on carriages fitted with four wheels. They rely on outriggers that extend both horizontally and vertically to stabilize the crane during hoisting. These cranes utilize a single engine to power both the winch and undercarriage, allowing them to navigate rocky and gravel-filled terrains effectively. Their ability to carry heavy loads makes them invaluable in construction sites.

Overhead Cranes

Also known as suspended cranes, overhead cranes are widely used in factories for lifting heavy loads. Goliath cranes, a variant, are employed in shipyards. These cranes consist of hoists mounted on trolleys that travel along one or two beams. They can move at angles in both ground and elevated levels. Overhead cranes are powerful tools that require skilled operators to manage their intricate mechanisms. Their ability to lift heavy and bulky loads to great heights makes them indispensable in construction and port operations.

elebia Hooks, the Right Solution for Ports

The elebia hook is a remarkable lifting accessory that is essential for port operators. It offers exceptional features ensuring optimal performance and reliability. A complete system requires all components to function seamlessly, making the elebia automatic crane hook a must-have for any modern port operation. Designed to cater to various crane types, including Panamax and post-Panamax, these hooks incorporate a swivel with bearings that allow free rotation, facilitating easier handling.

Equipped with an electric motor and a clutch to prevent overloading, elebia automatic lifting hooks also feature a robust steel body with corrosion-resistant polyester coating. This design ensures durability in harsh port environments. Operators can fine-tune the release limit with precise electronic torque adjustments, reducing rigging issues and enhancing operational efficiency.

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