IMPORTANT information

Key factors to consider when selecting a portable gantry

Introduction

Selecting a portable gantry requires a thoughtful evaluation to ensure it meets the demands of your tasks while ensuring safety and efficiency.

Some of the key factors to consider include the intended application, the structural design such as ‘A’ Frame or Goalpost gantries, and the gantry’s dimensions including height, width, and internal span. The nature and weight of the load, as well as the frequency of gantry use, play significant roles in making an informed decision.

Additionally, considerations for height adjustability, bracing requirements, and the type of castors and lifting appliances are crucial.

Each of these elements is instrumental in optimising the functionality and longevity of the portable gantry in your operations.

Types of Gantries

Goalpost Gantries

Goalpost-style gantries are ideally suited for lighter, sporadic maintenance tasks or similar undertakings. They offer more freedom of movement to the operator in comparison to other gantry structures, though they are not as sturdy as the ‘A’ Frame designs. They are not recommended for heavy-duty or regular usage.

Additionally, if your operations require compact storage or frequent relocations, a foldable goalpost gantry would be highly advisable.

‘A’ Frame Gantries

The ‘A’ Frame gantry is crafted for heavier tasks and is ideal for scenarios where it will remain assembled. This structure is perfect for recurrent heavy lifting tasks like loading and unloading in outdoor spaces or workshop settings. Due to its robust nature, it is suitable for general-purpose applications.

Height Adjustable / Foldable Gantries

In scenarios where varying heights of the runway beam are necessary, a height-adjustable gantry is the go-to choice.

For frequent usage with the occasional need for disassembly for transportation or storage, a foldable gantry is advised.

Heavyweight or Lightweight: How to Choose

Heavy-duty gantries are recommended for:

  • Situations where the load is near the gantry’s safe working load (SWL)
  • Usage of manual or powered lifting devices
  • Regular and frequent usage
  • Requirement of a sturdy gantry structure

On the other hand, light-duty gantries are apt for:

  • Loads mostly under the gantry’s safe working load (SWL)
  • Manual lifting devices usage
  • Scenarios where a less sturdy structure is acceptable

Types of Bracing

For any specialised bracing needs, please get in touch with our technical sales team for guidance.

External Bracing

For applications needing maximum internal clearance and with no external hindrances, external bracing is apt. It enables maximal travel along the runway and allows lifting of wide loads to the utmost height.

Internal Bracing

Where external obstructions exist, like over gangways or between machinery, internal bracing is a practical choice as it restricts travel along the runway.

Box Bracing

When maximum runway travel is essential but external space is restricted, a box braced gantry serves as a feasible solution.

Rigid / Spliced Bracing

In situations requiring maximal runway travel with limited external space, a rigid/ spliced braced gantry is an appropriate setup.

Types of Castors to Consider

The selection of castors largely depends on the gantry’s movement surface and whether it’s a heavy or light duty gantry. Consideration for wheel brakes or rotational locks for safety is also important.

Is there a need for jacks?

For light-duty gantries, using jacks to offload the weight from the castors is advisable. They are also useful for stabilising a gantry during extended periods of usage or for leveling a runway.

Brakes & Locking Mechanisms

Brakes and locking devices are pivotal for safety in preventing unintended gantry movements, especially in outdoor settings with wind factors. They can be installed on most gantries, and used alongside or alternatively to a jack to halt movement.

Lifting Device Selection

The choice between manual chain hoists and electric chain hoists depends on the frequency of gantry usage, type of load, and working environment.

Consideration for how the hoist connects to the gantry’s runway beam and ensuring a suitable power source for electric chain hoists is crucial. Ensure that the chosen hoist matches the gantry’s safe working load (SWL) capacity.

Additional Considerations

  • Ensuring end stops on the runway beam to prevent collisions.
  • Adhering to necessary documentation as per legislation for the gantry, hoist, and trolley.
  • Checking for small objects that might obstruct wheel movement.
  • Ensuring the floor can withstand pressure points from the gantry’s wheels or jacks.
  • Additional finishing for steel gantries depending on the application, like in food industry settings.
  • Selecting a mobile gantry capable of movement under load if required, and following instructions strictly.
  • Considering weather guards for outdoor usage to prevent corrosion, and possibly rain cover and chain bag for the hoist.