2-Ton Gantry Cranes: A Material Handling Overview

Gantry cranes (or gantries) are an effective solution for dozens of material handling challenges. Whether you need to move hefty machine parts, load batteries into forklifts, or stack heavier items, a 2-ton gantry crane can get the job done — while keeping costs under control.

BHS engineers robust, reliable 2-Ton Gantry Cranes capable of handling loads of up to 4,000 pounds. In this article, we’ll discuss some use cases for gantries and provide tips for purchasing. 

Use Cases for 2-Ton Gantry Cranes

Gantries are standard equipment in a wide range of industries. Some of the most common use cases include: 

• Lift Truck Battery Rooms: A standard forklift battery can weigh up to 4,000 pounds. Gantry cranes aren’t as efficient as custom-built Battery Extractors, but they’re an economical choice for smaller organizations — and with the right accessories, they fit right into the battery room.
• Warehousing: In warehouse settings, 2-ton gantry cranes are ideal for loading and unloading trucks, stacking heavy items on shelving, and transporting goods efficiently within the facility.
• Maintenance and Repair: Gantries can safely lift and position motors, pumps, engines, and other heavy equipment to provide technicians with access.
• Construction: On smaller construction sites, gantry cranes can be used to position steel beams, concrete panels, or other building materials.
• Automotive Shops: Automotive repair shops rely on gantry cranes to lift engines, transmissions, and other heavy automotive components.
• Machine Shops: Machine shops utilize gantry cranes for moving workpieces between workstations, loading and unloading CNC machines, and performing a variety of general material handling tasks.

Gantry Crane or Gantry System?

While often used interchangeably, "gantry crane" and "gantry system" can refer to distinct material handling solutions. A gantry crane is an overhead lifting device with a single-axis bridge supported by legs, which may run along a fixed track or be portable (as with BHS 2-ton Gantry Cranes). 

A gantry system is a multi-axis material handling solution, often with permanently installed linear guide rails that allow movement along at least the X and Y axes. To put it another way: A gantry crane lifts loads and travels along a single straight line, while a full gantry system does the same along multiple axes.

To learn more about these differences, read: Gantry System Vs. Gantry Crane: What's The Difference?

Gantry Crane Capacities: How Much Is Enough? 

When you’re purchasing heavy-duty material handling equipment (MHE), capacity is the first factor you’ll need to consider. BHS Gantry Cranes are available in a range of heights, spans, and capacities, with custom options available on request. 

Some concepts to keep in mind: 

• Calculate a reasonable maximum load weight. Identify the heaviest load you’ll be lifting regularly, along with loads you may need to lift as your business grows.
• Don’t forget about lifting accessories. Hooks, lifting beams, and other components may not be heavy, but they add some weight. Don’t forget to include some overage for accessories.
• Add a safety margin. Ideally, your crane should exceed the maximum load weight by around 20-25%. The safety margin accounts for unexpected variations (such as dynamic forces during lifting) and the long term wear-and-tear that impacts all MHE.
• For high-frequency duty cycles, opt for larger capacities. A higher capacity doesn’t necessarily mean “more durable,” but if you’re lifting near the maximum capacity of the crane on a near-constant basis, it’s a good idea to move up to a model designed for a larger load.

For many industrial applications, a 2-ton gantry crane strikes an ideal balance between lifting power and cost-effectiveness. It can handle a wide range of materials and equipment while remaining more affordable than higher-capacity cranes. 

With that said, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Your material handling partner can help you analyze your needs and find a gantry that works for your operation.

3-Ton and 2-Ton Gantry Cranes from BHS

BHS gantry cranes are a versatile and reliable solution for a variety of material handling needs. Constructed with durable, powder-coated steel and available in capacities ranging from 4,000 to 6,000 pounds, our gantries provide ergonomic material handling even for applications with high-frequency duty cycles. 

BHS 2-Ton Gantry Cranes feature adjustable height and span, smooth-rolling casters, and optional power drive with variable frequency drive technology. Designed with a focus on ergonomics and safety, BHS gantries help reduce operator strain and improve productivity.

Power Drive Gantry Cranes are designed for demanding, high-throughput operations. They feature variable frequency drive technology, ensuring smooth, powered travel along the track. With easy-to-use six-button pendant controls, Power Drive Gantry Cranes enhance efficiency and minimize operator fatigue.

Non-Power Drive Gantry Cranes offer a cost-effective solution for facilities with lighter-duty lifting needs. For added stability during operation, Non-Power Drive Gantry Cranes can be equipped with optional floor mounts. They’re a reliable and economical solution for less frequent lifting tasks.

Explore Material Handling Solutions with BHS

Every piece of BHS material handling equipment is designed to enhance your workflow and boost productivity from day one. Whether you need a robust solution for occasional lifting tasks or a custom-built system ready for integration with automated components, our experts will help you find the perfect fit.

To discuss options for your operation, contact our team today at 1.800.247.9500.