Single Girder or Double Girder Overhead Crane?
A comparison of single and double girder overhead cranes by capacity, span, lifting height, cost and intensity of use.
| Feature | Single girder | Double girder |
|---|---|---|
| Typical capacity | 1 – 16 t | 5 – 50 t and above |
| Span | Medium spans (up to about 25 m) | Wide spans (30 m and more) |
| Hoist | Hoist running on the lower flange of the girder | Trolley hoist running on top of the two girders |
| Lifting height | Hook stays below the girder | Hook rises between the girders; higher |
| Duty class | Light and medium use | Heavy and continuous use |
| Load on the building | Lighter; columns and runway cost less | Heavier; needs a stronger structure |
| Cost | Lower initial investment | Higher initial investment |
| Maintenance access | Simple; fewer parts | A walkway can be added on the girders |
Choose single girder if…
- Your loads are mostly below 10 tonnes
- The span is moderate and the crane works a few hours a day
- The building structure is light or the budget comes first
Choose double girder if…
- Loads are heavy or capacity is expected to grow
- The span is wide and lifting height is critical
- The crane works hard all shift long or an auxiliary hook is needed
In short
In workshops, warehouses and light manufacturing a single girder crane is usually enough and economical. Where heavy manufacturing, wide bays and high lifting heights are needed, a double girder crane is the better long-term investment.
Still not sure? Try the crane selector or send us your dimensions.
Frequently asked questions
Up to what capacity is a single girder crane made?
Usually up to 16 tonnes; higher capacities are possible if the span and duty class allow.
Can a single girder crane be converted to double girder later?
No, the bridge has to be rebuilt. If capacity is expected to grow, consider double girder from the start; the runway can be kept if it is calculated for it.
Which one gives more lifting height?
The double girder crane. Because the hook rises between the two girders, it lifts higher under the same roof.
Tell us about your project. We will define the right crane together.
Send us your capacity and span for a tailored offer. Call our service line for breakdowns.