Introduction

Single Girder vs Double Girder Overhead Crane — Which One Should You Choose?Choosing the right overhead crane system is one of the most critical decisions in material handling. Whether you’re upgrading an existing factory or setting up a new workshop, understanding the difference between single girder and double girder overhead cranes can directly affect your project’s efficiency, installation cost, and long-term reliability.

In this guide, we’ll explain the key technical and economic differences between these two popular types of overhead cranes — and help you decide which one best fits your lifting needs.

What Is a Single Girder Overhead Crane?

A single girder overhead crane uses one main beam (girder) that supports the hoist and trolley. The trolley typically runs on the bottom flange of the beam (under-running) or on top (top-running) depending on the design.

Key Features	Common Applications
One main bridge girder Lighter self-weight and lower cost Compact design suitable for low headroom workshops Typically supports lifting capacities up to 20 tons Working class：M3-M5	Manufacturing workshops Light assembly plants Warehouses and maintenance facilities

Example: A 5-ton single girder EOT crane is ideal for a machining or fabrication shop with limited ceiling height.

What Is a Double Girder Overhead Crane?

A double girder overhead crane has two parallel main girders that support the trolley and hoist. This design offers greater load-bearing capacity and enables higher lifting heights.

Key Features	Common Applications
Two main bridge girders Higher lifting capacity — typically 3 to 500 tons The hoist sits on top of the bridge, maximizing hook height Can handle heavy-duty, continuous operation Working class：M3-M7	Heavy machinery manufacturing Steel mills Power plants Large assembly workshops

Example: A 50-ton double girder bridge crane is commonly used for lifting heavy molds, turbines, or large metal structures.

Main Differences Between Single and Double Girder Cranes

Feature	Single Girder	Double Girder
Structure	One main beam	Two main beams
Lifting Capacity	Up to ~20 tons	3 tons to 500 tons
Span	Up to 25 m	Up to 35 m or more
Cost	Lower	Higher
Maintenance	Easier	More complex
Installation Height	Compact	Requires higher building clearance
Crab Type	Underhung	Always top-running

Pros and Cons Summary

Advantages of Single Girder Cranes	Advantages of Double Girder Cranes
Economical and lightweight Lower installation and transportation cost Faster production and delivery time Ideal for workshops with height limitations	Higher capacity and longer span Greater hook height More stable for heavy loads Easier to integrate with maintenance walkways, lights, or cabs
Limitations	Limitations
Lower lifting capacity Limited span and hook height Not ideal for continuous heavy-duty operation	Higher cost and weight Requires stronger runway beams More complex installation and maintenance

Which One Should You Choose?

Your choice depends on lifting capacity, workshop size, and budget.

♠ Small factory or warehouse：Single Girder Crane

♠ Medium to heavy industry：Double Girder Crane

♠ Limited building height：Single Girder Crane

♠ Heavy equipment production：Double Girder Crane

If your lifting needs are below 15–20 tons, a single girder overhead crane usually provides the best value.
However, for large-scale production, continuous shifts, or load capacities above 20 tons, a double girder design is a more durable long-term investment.

Cost Comparison (Typical Range)

Crane Type	Estimated Cost (USD)	Notes
Single Girder 5T x 10m span	$7,000 – $12,000	Light-duty workshop
Double Girder 10T x 20m span	$15,000 – $25,000	Medium-duty
Double Girder 50T x 25m span	$40,000 – $60,000	Heavy-duty application

(These prices vary based on hoist brand, control system, and manufacturing country.)

Safety and Maintenance Tips

Regardless of the crane type, safety and maintenance are critical.

♠ Inspect wire ropes and limit switches regularly

♠ Lubricate wheels, bearings, and hoist gears

♠ Check runway alignment and end-stop buffers

♠ Train operators to follow local safety standards (e.g., OSHA, ISO, or EN regulations)

Conclusion

Both single and double girder overhead cranes have their own strengths.
If your goal is cost-efficiency and simplicity, choose a single girder.
If your goal is performance, durability, and lifting capacity, invest in a double girder.

Call to Action

Working in low headroom or tight spaces and need precision set-down for high-value equipment?
Send MOTCRANE the Inquiry. We’ll return two practical options (standard configuration vs. upgrade-ready) with budget ranges to match your project plan.

Introduction

What Is a Single Girder Overhead Crane?

Key Features

Common Applications