Single Girder vs. Double Girder Overhead Bridge Crane: Which Is the Best Choice for Your Operation?

Choosing the right overhead bridge crane is a critical decision for factories, warehouses, and industrial facilities. One of the most common questions buyers ask is whether a single girder overhead bridge crane or a double girder overhead bridge crane is the better option.

Companies searching for an overhead bridge crane for sale often compare solutions from different overhead bridge crane manufacturers, including requests for China overhead bridge crane manufacturers quotes, to balance cost, lifting capacity, and long-term performance.

This in-depth guide explains the key differences between single girder vs. double girder overhead bridge cranes, covering design, capacity, applications, costs, and selection tips—helping you make a confident and cost-effective decision.

What Is an Overhead Bridge Crane?

An overhead bridge crane is an industrial lifting system designed to move heavy loads horizontally across a workspace. It operates on elevated runway rails fixed to the building structure, allowing safe and efficient material handling without occupying floor space.

Core components include:

Runway rails

Bridge girders

End trucks

Hoist and trolley system

The two most widely used configurations are single girder overhead bridge cranes and double girder overhead bridge cranes, each suited to different lifting demands and site conditions.

Single Girder Overhead Bridge Crane Explained

A single girder overhead bridge crane features one main girder supporting the hoist and trolley, which typically runs on the bottom flange of the beam. This lightweight design reduces overall crane weight and structural load.

Because of its compact structure, the single girder crane is ideal for facilities with limited headroom or existing buildings that cannot support heavy crane systems.

Advantages of Single Girder Overhead Bridge Cranes

Lower purchase and installation cost

Reduced load on building columns and runway beams

Faster installation and simpler maintenance

Suitable for light to medium duty operations

Typical capacity: 1–20 tons

Typical span: up to 65 feet

Common Applications of Single Girder Cranes

Single girder overhead bridge cranes are widely used in:

Assembly workshops

Maintenance and repair areas

Warehouses and storage facilities

Light manufacturing plants

They are best suited for operations with moderate lifting frequency and smaller load weights.

Double Girder Overhead Bridge Crane Explained

A double girder overhead bridge crane uses two parallel girders, with the hoist trolley running on rails mounted on top of the girders. This configuration provides superior structural strength and load distribution.

The hoist is positioned between the girders, allowing greater hook height and improved lifting efficiency—especially important in heavy-duty industrial environments.

Advantages of Double Girder Overhead Bridge Cranes

High lifting capacity: 5 tons to 300+ tons

Greater hook height and better use of vertical space

Enhanced stability and reduced deflection

Suitable for high-duty cycles and continuous operation

Supports additional features such as walkways, cabins, or auxiliary hoists

Common Applications of Double Girder Cranes

Double girder overhead bridge cranes are commonly used in:

Steel and metal fabrication plants

Foundries and casting workshops

Shipbuilding and heavy engineering facilities

Power plants and outdoor industrial yards

They are the preferred choice for demanding applications requiring frequent heavy lifts and long spans.

Which Overhead Bridge Crane Should You Choose?

When deciding between single girder vs. double girder overhead bridge cranes, consider the following factors:

Required lifting capacity and frequency

Available headroom and building structure

Budget and long-term operating cost

Future production expansion plans

Choose a single girder overhead bridge crane if:

You handle lighter loads

Budget is a primary concern

The facility has height or structural limitations

Choose a double girder overhead bridge crane if:

You need high lifting capacity or long spans

Operations involve heavy-duty or continuous use

Maximum hook height and stability are required

Choosing a Reliable Overhead Bridge Crane Manufacturer

Working with experienced overhead bridge crane manufacturers ensures compliance with international standards such as ISO, CE, and FEM.

Many global buyers prefer China overhead bridge crane manufacturers for competitive pricing, advanced engineering, and customization capabilities. When requesting quotations, look for suppliers that offer:

Professional design consultation

Installation and commissioning support

Spare parts availability

Long-term technical service

Get a Quote from Nante Crane Today

With over 30 years of experience, Nante Crane is a trusted manufacturer of high-quality overhead bridge cranes, offering both single girder and double girder solutions. Our cranes feature optimized weight, energy efficiency, and strict quality control, serving industries worldwide.

Contact us today for a custom overhead bridge crane quote and expert guidance tailored to your material handling needs.
Visit https://www.nantecrane.com/ to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the main difference between single girder and double girder overhead bridge cranes?
Single girder cranes use one beam for lighter loads, while double girder cranes use two beams for heavier loads, longer spans, and higher hook height.

Which overhead bridge crane is more cost-effective?
Single girder cranes have lower initial costs, while double girder cranes offer better long-term value for heavy-duty applications.

How do I get China overhead bridge crane manufacturers quotes?
You can request quotations directly from manufacturers’ websites by providing lifting capacity, span, lifting height, and duty class requirements.

Are double girder cranes suitable for outdoor use?
Yes. With proper weather protection and coatings, double girder cranes are widely used outdoors.