Bridge cranes are the workhorses of factories and warehouses, moving heavy loads with ease. But not all cranes are created equal—double girder and single girder models each have distinct advantages. Understanding the differences between them can save you time and money, whether you're setting up a new facility or upgrading old equipment.
They Handle Heavier Loads with Ease
If your operation involves lifting loads over 20 tons, double girder bridge crane are the way to go. These cranes are built to handle capacities of 50, 100, or even 500 tons effortlessly. The two beams share the weight, reducing the load on each one. On the other hand, a single girder crane typically maxes out around 20 tons for daily use. Push it beyond that, and you'll start seeing issues like bent beams or unstable lifts.
Take a steel mill, for example. If you're moving 30-ton ingots all day, a double girder crane’s dual beams keep things stable even when lifting at full span. A single girder may manage the load a couple of times, but over time, the constant strain will shorten its lifespan.
They Offer Greater Reach and Stability
Need a crane to span 25 meters or more? Double girders excel here. Their design prevents excessive sagging, usually no more than 1/800th of the span length. For a 20-meter span, that’s just 25mm of sag under full load. Single girders, due to having only one main beam, sag more (up to 1/600th of the span), which can throw off precision and may even cause collisions with overhead pipes or beams.
In a large warehouse with a 30-meter gap between walls, a double girder crane will smoothly glide from one end to the other, while a single girder may wobble, especially when carrying large, heavy loads.
They Use Space More Efficiently
Double girder bridge crane place their lifting gear (the trolley) between the two beams, allowing the hook to rise higher—often 30 to 50 centimeters more than a single girder crane in the same space. This extra height is important when stacking tall items or working in facilities with high ceilings.
Additionally, many double girder setups include an auxiliary hoist (e.g., a 10-ton lift alongside a 50-ton main hoist). This allows workers to quickly move lighter items without using the main hoist, saving time and reducing wear on the larger system. Single girder cranes rarely offer this option, as there’s not enough space for two hoists.
They Last Longer, Even Under Heavy Use
If your crane runs 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, double girder bridge crane tend to last longer. Their parts are stronger: thicker steel beams, sturdier brakes, and motors designed for continuous operation. Experts suggest these cranes often last 25 to 30 years with proper maintenance, while single girder cranes typically last 15 to 20 years under heavy use.
Maintenance is also easier. Many double girder bridge crane come with walkways along the beams, allowing inspectors to check ropes, wheels, and connections without needing to climb ladders or shut down the entire system for extended periods.
Start with the Weight You Need to Lift
Go for a double girder if:
You regularly lift more than 20 tons.
You need to move 10+ tons across the full length of a long span.
The crane will be used for most of the workday (e.g., in automotive or steel plants).
Stick with a single girder if:
Your loads are 10 tons or less, and you use the crane occasionally (a few times a day).
You’re moving lighter items like pallets or small machinery.
Consider Your Workshop’s Layout
Double girder cranes require more headroom—around 1.5 meters above the highest point the hook reaches. However, they make better use of vertical space.
Single girder cranes are better for low-ceiling buildings (1.2 meters of headroom is enough), but their lifting height is limited.
If your workshop is wider than 22 meters, double girder is the safer choice. Single girders can struggle with stability at that span.
Think About Long-Term Costs
While double girder bridge crane cost more upfront—typically 40% to 60% more than a single girder with similar capacity—they can be worth the investment. Over 10 years, their longer lifespan and lower repair costs often make them more economical in the long run.
For example, a 30-ton double girder crane might cost $50,000 more initially than a 20-ton single girder, but if your operation expands and you end up replacing the single girder after 10 years, the double girder could still be going strong—saving you the cost of a full replacement.
Special Jobs Require Special Cranes
In high-temperature environments like foundries, double girder bridge crane handle heat better. Their extra space allows you to add heat shields around motors and cables.
For precision tasks like assembling electronics or aerospace components, double girder bridge crane with dual hoists let you position heavy parts with millimeter accuracy.
In tight or hazardous environments (e.g., chemical plants), double girder bridge crane provide more room for adding safety features—such as explosion-proof motors or extra guards—without compromising the lifting mechanism.
Measure the span (distance between the walls where the crane runs). Over 22 meters? Go for a double girder.
Consider how often the crane will be used. Daily heavy use = double girder. Occasional light use = single girder.
Calculate the heaviest load you’ll lift. If it’s over 20 tons, double girder is a safer choice.
Check your ceiling height. Low ceilings may require a single girder, even if you need more lifting power.
At the end of the day, choosing the right crane comes down to matching the equipment to your specific needs. Double girder bridge crane aren’t inherently “better” than single girder cranes—they’re just designed for more demanding, heavy-duty jobs. Pick the one that fits your workflow, and it will serve you well for decades.
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