Mobile gantries are largely supplied as a standard configuration but can also be custom designed and manufactured to specifically suit the customers intended application and unique requirements.
One of the most essential considerations you will need to make is the dimensions of the gantry, which includes the overall length, height and width and should also take factor in any obstructions or limitations that may apply. The internal dimensions of the gantry are of equal importance and will include the span and effective length, as well as the size and nature of the load and placement of the load.
Goalpost gantries are typically light duty and best suited to occasional maintenance work or similar applications. Their structure allows the operator to move more freely when compared with other gantry structures however this also means that the structure is less robust than 'A' Frame designs. A goalpost gantry would not be suitable for a heavy-duty application or for frequent/regular use.
It is also worthwhile considering if you will have the need for compact storage. Should the goalpost gantry be used infrequently or required to be moved from site to site then a foldaway gantry would be a strong recommendation.
An ‘A’ frame gantry is designed for heavier duty work and applications where the structure will stay erected. Ideal for applications where heavy loads are required to be lifted regularly, like loading and unloading in yards/open areas or for use in a workshop, the structure is robust and should be considered for all general-purpose applications.
Applications where height variation of the runway beam is required an adjustable height gantry would be best suited.
For applications where the structure will be used frequently but may on occasion need to be dismantled for transportation or storage a foldable gantry is recommended.
Heavy-duty gantries should be considered for applications where:
Light-duty gantries may be considered for applications where:
If you have special bracing requirements please contact our technical sales team to discuss this and we will advise you accordingly.
Applications requiring maximum internal clearance dimensions, that have no external obstructions, external bracing is suitable. It allows the maximum amount of travel along the runway and for wide loads to be lifted to the maximum height.
Applications where there are external obstructions, i.e. use over gangways or between machines, internal bracing is a viable option as it limits the amount of travelling along the runway.
Applications where maximum runway travel is necessary but external clearances are limited, a box braced gantry is a workable solution.
Applications where maximum runway travel is necessary but external clearances are limited, a rigid/ spliced braced gantry is a suitable configuration.
Choosing the right type of castor will largely depend on what kind of surface the gantry will be moved on and also whether the gantry is heavy duty or light duty. It's also worthwhile considering whether the wheels will need to be fitted with brakes or if that castors will need to be fitted with rotational locks for safety purposes.
If your gantry is for light duty use it's recommended that jacks are utilised to ensure the load is not being supported on the castors. They're also recommended for applications requiring the gantry to be situated in one position for long periods of use. They can also be used to help level a runway.
Brakes and locking devices are important safety considerations for any mobile gantry and are recommended where an inadvertent movement could occur, for example if the gantry is being used outdoors and wind unexpectedly moves the gantry from it's desired operational position. Brakes and locking devices can be fitted to most gantries and can be used alongside or as an alternative to a jack to prevent movement.
The use of brakes, wheel locks and castor rotational locks should always be considered where inadvertent movement might occur, e.g. outdoor due to high winds. They may be fitted to most types of gantry and used in addition to, or as an alternative to, jack to prevent movement.
When choosing a hoist to work with your gantry them most common choices are manual chain hoists and electric chain hoists,and your decision will depend on the how frequently the gantry will be used, the load type and the intended working environment.
It's important to also bear in mind how the hoist will be connected to the gantry's runway beam which is dependent on how you plan to use your gantry and hoist, but could be achieved by trolley, beam clamps or fixed eyes. For electric chain hoists you will need to consider if you have a suitable power source available within your intended working space and it's important to take the necessary steps to avoid health and safety hazards e.g. trailing leads or hoses, and restricting the gantry's movements so that there is no tension on the power feed.
Remember that the hoist you pair with your gantry should only be used to lift loads rated to the safe working load (SWL) of the gantry.
Other considerations to be made when choosing a mobile gantry include:
