A gantry crane is a type of crane that includes some sort of bridge. In most cases, the crane is supported by two legs. A container crane is a type of gantry crane. This type of crane is typically found at shipping terminals, and is used to load and unload containers onto a ship. It is also known as a ship-to-shore crane.
If you are going to be investing in one of these cranes, you will want to learn more about them. When you have an understanding of how they work, it will be easier for you to find a product that will complete all the tasks that you need it to.
How Container Cranes Work
Gantry cranes typically contain a hook (contiene un gancho). However, container cranes don’t use a hook; they use a tool called a spreader instead. This is a specialized handling tool that is able to lock onto various types of containers.
The cranes are able to securely connect to the containers that they lift. Every container has four locking points (puntos de cierre) that the crane can lock into. It has a twistlock mechanism that keeps the container from slipping as it is lifted.
In the past, a container crane could only lift one container at a time. However, some modern cranes are able to transport more than container at once. Some varieties are able to lift two containers at the same time, while others can lift up to four. Being able to lift multiple containers has a very positive impact on the productivity of a crane.
The Different Types Of Container Gantry Cranes
There are two main types of container cranes. There are low-profile cranes, which shuttle the boom toward a ship. These cranes are usually used when a container terminal is close to an airport Because the containers are not lifted as high, they are safer around planes.
In addition, there are high-profile cranes. These cranes lift containers high in the air, clearing over ships in the process. These types of cranes are usually hinged at the waterside of the docking station.
Usage
Because these cranes require a great deal of precision, they are not automated. Instead, they are controlled by an operator. The operator sits in a cabin (en una cabina) that is located in close proximity to the crane itself. From the position, the operator can clearly see the crane and the area around it.
The operator uses the crane to lock onto containers with the spreader. Once the connection is secure, they move the container to where it needs to be. Operators will unload cargo from a ship when it comes in, but will also load cargo onto a ship that is heading out.
Container cranes are commonly seen in areas where ships dock. Although they are limited in functionality, they serve a very important use. Without these types of cranes, loading and unloading cargo from shops would take a very long time. Container gantry cranes have helped to improve the lives of many people.