In industrial handling and material transportation scenarios, European cranes are gradually replacing traditional lifting equipment due to their lightweight design, high-performance drive, modular structure and other advantages. Among them, European single-beam and European double-beam bridge cranes are the two most common types. So, what is the difference between them? How to make a choice based on actual needs? The following will provide you with a detailed analysis.
Differences in structure and load-bearing capacity
| Feature | European Single Girder Crane | European Double Girder Crane |
|---|---|---|
| Main Beam Quantity | One box-type girder | Two parallel box-type girders |
| Hoist Position | Under-running (below the girder) | Top-running (between girders) |
| Lifting Capacity | Typically 1–20 tons | Up to 100 tons or more |
| Span | 7.5 – 25 meters | Up to 35 meters or more |
| Lifting Height | Moderate | Higher – suitable for taller buildings |
| Structure Weight | Lighter, compact | Heavier, stronger structural rigidity |
| Installation Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Operation Stability | Suitable for moderate duty | More stable under heavy loads and long spans |
| Typical Applications | Workshops, warehouses, light manufacturing | Heavy industry, equipment assembly, steel structure fabrication |
| Optional Features | Remote control, variable frequency drive (VFD) | VFD, auxiliary hoists, electromagnetic beams, grabs, etc. |
Advantages comparison
European single-beam cranes are compact, low-cost and easy to install, suitable for:
Small and medium-tonnage handling
Cost-sensitive projects
Small and medium-sized factories, machine shops, warehouses, etc.
European double-beam cranes have stronger load-bearing capacity and structural stability, and are suitable for:
Heavy equipment manufacturing, steel structure processing, energy equipment hoisting, etc.
Working conditions with high operating frequency, high lifting height or span requirements
Install multifunctional mechanisms such as magnetic suction, electromagnetic lifting beams, grab buckets, etc.
Selection suggestions
If you need to purchase a European bridge crane, you can refer to the following table
| Criteria | Recommended Option |
|---|---|
| Load ≤ 20 tons | Single Girder |
| Load ≥ 20 tons | Double Girder |
| Need for high lifting height | Double Girder (better headroom) |
| Large span (>25 meters) | Double Girder (stronger rigidity) |
| Frequent heavy-duty use | Double Girder with high-duty motor & VFD |
| Budget sensitivity | Single Girder (cost-effective) |
Choosing the right type of crane is not only related to equipment performance, but also directly affects your production efficiency and safety level. The European single-beam structure is more economical and flexible, while the double-beam solution is more suitable for large-tonnage, high-frequency, and high-standard operations.
If you are worried about the selection of a lifting system, please feel free to contact the BTARO technical team. We will customize a cost-effective European lifting solution for you based on your plant conditions, handling conditions, and budget requirements.
