At Granada Cranes, we’re no strangers to building and installing overhead gantry cranes that push boundaries. A recent project for a newly built factory by WEC demonstrates exactly that. While most single girder overhead cranes are designed for capacities up to 10 tonnes (and occasionally 12.5t), our client needed more.
The solution? Four 15-ton single girder cranes — a rare specification that required a bespoke approach.
Project Overview
- Client: WEC – New Factory
- Location: UK
- Scope: Supply and install 4 x 15t single girder EOT cranes
- Phased installation:
- 2 cranes installed in March 2025
- 2 cranes installed in June 2025
- Additional works: 42m Granada conductor bar systems fitted in each bay
The client had constructed their own factory and required lifting systems capable of handling heavy loads across two large production bays. Each bay needed two cranes, and each needed a reliable power and control system.
The Challenge
This project was unique because:
- Single girder cranes at 15 tonnes are not typical — most stop at 10–12.5t.
- The cranes required a span of over 20m while remaining structurally efficient.
- A heavy-duty duty classification (ISO M5) was required for reliable, frequent use.
- The power distribution system needed to be robust and low-maintenance for continuous operation.
The client also requested the installation to be phased to fit with their build schedule, ensuring production could get up and running without unnecessary delays.
Our Solution
Granada designed, fabricated, and installed four UK-built single girder box beam cranes, each fitted with SWF electric wire rope hoists.
To power the cranes, we installed 42m Granada conductor bar systems in both bays — delivering safe, efficient, and reliable power distribution.
Each crane was equipped with Schneider pendant controls, dual-speed travel, and slow/fast hoist operation to give operators precise control when handling heavy loads.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Safe Working Load (SWL) | 15,000 kg |
| Crane Span | 20,588 mm (approx.) |
| Hoisting Unit | SWF ND06N5EFP540BT1S (Electric Wire Rope Hoist) |
| Height of Lift | 8,000 mm |
| Hoist Speeds | Fast: 3.2 m/min, Slow: 0.5 m/min |
| Cross Travel Speeds | Fast: 20 m/min, Slow: 2.8 m/min |
| Long Travel Speeds | Fast: 32 m/min, Slow: 5.3 m/min |
| Duty Classification | ISO M5 (heavy-duty industrial use) |
| Control Method | Schneider pendant, movable along bridge |
| Power System | 42m Granada conductor bar (per bay) |
The Results
The new factory is now equipped with four 15-ton single girder overhead cranes, each delivering the lifting power and precision the client required across two production bays. By pushing the boundaries of single girder design – where capacities usually stop at 10–12.5t – we were able to provide a compact, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to double girder systems.
The phased installation ensured operations could begin sooner, while our in-house fabrication and integration of SWF hoists and Granada Colt conductor bar systems guaranteed long-term reliability.
Most importantly, this project shows what sets Granada apart:
- Flexibility – designing cranes outside typical capacity ranges.
- Efficiency – balancing lifting strength with cost-effective single girder designs.
- Compliance – every crane built to LOLER, PUWER, and BS EN 15011 standards.
- Partnership – phased delivery aligned with the client’s build schedule, reducing downtime and disruption.
Why Granada Cranes?
From one-off projects to complete factory installations, Granada Cranes delivers overhead crane systems that are fit for purpose, safe, and built to last. Our independence means we’re not tied to one manufacturer — giving us the flexibility to design the right system for your operation, not just a catalogue option.
Looking for a tailored lifting solution for your facility? Get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements.
