Gantry System Vs. Gantry Crane: Understanding the Difference

Do you need a gantry crane, a gantry system, or both?

That largely depends on how you define those terms. In the material handling industry, both types of equipment play a crucial role in lifting heavy loads safely and efficiently.

While the terms often overlap, there are distinct differences in design, crane operation, and range of applications. A gantry crane is a type of overhead bridge crane commonly used for heavy lifting, while a full gantry crane system includes more components, such as linear guide rails, and offers greater lateral movement and precise positioning capabilities.

In this article, we'll break down the classifications of gantry cranes, compare gantry crane designs, and help you find the best solution for your operation. For expert guidance, call the BHS Sales Team at 1.800.247.9500.

What Is a Gantry Crane?

A gantry crane is a type of overhead crane that lifts objects from an elevated horizontal beam, or crane bridge, supported by two or more legs. The lifting crane mechanism (a hoist or trolley) travels along the beam to lift and move heavy materials. Depending on the type of gantry crane, the legs may ride along fixed crane rails, enabling horizontal movement across a workspace.

These systems are ideal for the construction industry, manufacturing facilities, and scrap yards, where safe operation with excellent lifting capacity is crucial. Gantry cranes excel in moving the heaviest loads along a straight path and are especially valuable in battery handling, where they lift large forklift batteries weighing thousands of pounds.

Some common gantry types include:

• Mobile gantry cranes for portable, flexible use

• Portable gantry crane systems ideal for storage facilities or light-duty environments

• Heavy-duty gantry cranes for industrial environments with high load requirements

What Is a Gantry System? 

A gantry system is a more complex solution that integrates gantry cranes into a larger framework. This popular configuration includes multi-axis linear rails that guide motion along the X and Y axes. Unlike a standard gantry crane that offers single beam linear travel, gantry systems allow precise equipment movement within a larger area.

In high-tech industrial applications, Cartesian gantries — also known as gantry robots — offer high-speed motion and precise positioning. While common in CNC machining and automated assembly, this level of complexity is often unnecessary in normal operating conditions like battery rooms or repair bays.

The permanent installation of these systems allows for optimized flow, and their ability to meet specific load intensity and lifting heights makes them a versatile option for many sectors of the material handling industry.

To break it down, here's the key difference between a gantry crane and a gantry system: A gantry crane is a frame that lifts loads and travels along a single straight line, while the full gantry system does the same along multiple axes. A gantry system is typically permanently installed, while some light-duty gantry cranes may be portable. 

Power Drive vs. Non-Power Drive Gantry Cranes

One of the primary differences between different models of gantries is their lifting mechanism. BHS offers two main types of Gantry Cranes for forklift battery extraction: Power Drive and Non-Power Drive. Power Drive Gantry Cranes utilize variable frequency drive technology for smooth, powered horizontal movement along the track, while Non-Power Gantry Cranes rely on manual movement with large swivel casters for portability. 

Both models prioritize safety with Cable Festoon Kits and sturdy powder-coated steel components. Their modular designs support system expansion, and both models can be customized with different capacities and beam spans to meet your operation’s needs.

Products to Consider

Power Drive Gantry Cranes use variable frequency drives for smooth, powered crane motion along a floor track. They offer enhanced efficiency and prevent operator fatigue with simple six-button pendant controls. These cranes are ideal for high-throughput operations where slow speed, smooth operations, and safe lifting are critical.

Non-Power Drive Gantry Cranes provide a cost-effective solution for lighter-duty battery rooms. They support manual movement with large swivel casters. These adjustable cranes can be equipped with optional floor mounts for added stability.

Both categories feature products designed for safe operation. You can also choose a full custom crane, with load capacity, beam span, and crane size optimized for your unique load requirements.

Find the Right Gantry for Your Operation

Choosing the right gantry system for your operation is crucial for maximizing efficiency and safety. Whether you're looking for a strongest gantry crane for heavy-duty lifting or a portable system that offers adjustable height, BHS provides solutions for a wide range of applications in industrial environments.

All BHS material handling equipment is engineered to enhance the way your business works, and our experts can help you find a solution that optimizes your workflow and improves productivity on day one. To get started, call 1.800.247.9500.