Heavy-Duty 20 Ton Overhead Gantry Cranes

When your operations involve lifting massive, high-value, or exceptionally heavy loads, standard equipment simply will not suffice. At AB Cranes, we specialise in the bespoke design, manufacture, and installation of premium 20 ton overhead gantry cranes. Engineered for maximum durability and precision, our 20,000kg systems are built to thrive in the UK’s most demanding industrial environments.

20 ton overhead gantry cranes

Looking for 20 Ton Overhead Gantry Cranes?

Moving 20 tons requires more than just raw power; it requires absolute control, structural certainty, and flawless engineering. We work closely with your team to deliver a turnkey lifting solution that integrates perfectly with your facility and transforms your heavy material handling.

Engineered for the Most Demanding Applications

A 20 ton overhead crane represents a major upgrade in lifting capability. These cranes are typically the primary workhorses of large-scale industrial facilities, designed to run continuously under heavy duty-cycles while keeping your workforce safe.

Common Industries Relying on 20 Ton Cranes:

  • Steel Mills and Foundries: Handling massive steel coils, molten metal ladles, and heavy structural beams with absolute precision.
  • Heavy Machinery Manufacturing: Assembling large earthmoving equipment, aerospace components, and industrial turbines.
  • Energy and Power Sectors: Positioning heavy generators, transformers, and maintaining power plant infrastructure.
  • Large-Scale Concrete & Construction: Lifting massive precast concrete slabs and bridge components safely and efficiently.
20 ton overhead gantry cranes beams

Why Double Girder is the Standard for 20 Ton Lifts

While single girder cranes are excellent for lighter loads, a Double Girder Overhead Crane is almost universally required when stepping up to a 20 ton capacity.

By utilising two robust bridge beams with the hoist crab running along the top, a double girder configuration provides unmatched structural stability. This design allows for significantly wider building spans without the bridge sagging under the immense weight. Furthermore, sitting the hoist on top of the girders maximises your hook height—a crucial advantage when lifting large, bulky machinery in facilities with restricted headroom.

Advanced Control and Safety Features

Controlling a swinging 20,000kg load is a severe safety hazard. That is why AB Cranes equips our heavy-duty systems with industry-leading technology to ensure smooth, safe operations:

  • Inverter Driven Motors (VFD): Variable Frequency Drives allow for stepless, ultra-smooth acceleration and deceleration. This virtually eliminates load sway, protecting both your personnel and your facility.
  • Radio Remote Controls: Operators can control the 20 ton crane from a safe distance, maintaining excellent visibility and avoiding pinch-points.
  • Advanced Load Monitoring: Integrated weight displays and electronic overload protection prevent the crane from attempting lifts that exceed its safe working load (SWL).
  • Anti-Collision Systems: Essential if you have multiple cranes sharing the same runway system.
20 ton overhead gantry cranes and steelworks

The AB Cranes Turnkey Service

Installing a 20 ton crane requires rigorous planning. Our comprehensive service begins with an in-depth structural survey of your site to ensure your building’s stanchions and foundations can withstand the immense dynamic forces of a 20t lift.

If your existing building cannot support the load, our engineers can design and fabricate an independent, heavy-duty freestanding steel gantry. From the initial 3D CAD designs to UK-based manufacturing, delivery, installation, and final load testing, AB Cranes handles every aspect of the project. We also provide ongoing preventative maintenance and statutory LOLER inspections to ensure your equipment remains safe and compliant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Must a 20 ton crane be a double girder design?
In almost all scenarios, yes. While a single girder might technically be engineered for a very short span, a double girder design is the industry standard for 20 tons. It provides the necessary structural rigidity, prevents twisting under load, and allows for wider spans and better hook height.
Can my current building support a 20 ton overhead crane?
A 20 ton crane places massive static and dynamic loads on a building. Before any installation, a thorough structural engineering survey is required. If your building’s framework is not rated for this weight, AB Cranes can design and install a completely independent freestanding runway structure.
How do you prevent a 20 ton load from swaying?
We utilise Inverter Drives (Variable Frequency Drives) on the travel and traverse motors. These drives provide smooth, gradual acceleration and braking, which stops the pendulum effect (load sway) that occurs with older, single-speed contactor systems.
How long does it take to build and install a 20 ton crane?
Due to the heavy-duty materials, complex engineering, and advanced electrical systems required, lead times are typically longer than smaller cranes. You can generally expect an 8 to 12-week timeframe from final drawing approval to installation, though this can vary based on custom requirements.
What kind of power supply is needed for a 20 ton gantry crane?
A robust 3-phase, 400V/415V industrial power supply is required. Given the size of the hoist and travel motors on a 20 ton system, we will consult with your electrical contractors to ensure your current mains supply and breaker systems can handle the required amperage.