Rubber Tyre Container Lifting Gantry Crane

Key Features of RTG Cranes:

Rubber Tyre Mobility – Moves on rubber tires, providing flexibility in container yard operations.

High Lifting Capacity – Typically handles 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft containers, with capacities ranging from 30 to 50 tons.

Adjustable Span – Can span multiple container rows (usually 6+1 or 7+1 configurations).

Diesel or Electric Power – Older models use diesel engines, while newer ones may feature electric or hybrid power for reduced emissions.

Automation-Ready – Modern RTGs can be semi-automated or fully automated for improved efficiency.

Steering Systems – May include 90° cross-travel steering, crab steering, or full 360° rotation for precise positioning.

 

Disadvantages:

✖ Higher Maintenance – Rubber tires wear out and require replacement.
✖ Less Precise Than RMGs – Slight movement due to tire flexibility.
✖ Fuel Dependency (Diesel Models) – Higher operational costs and emissions.

 

Comparison with Other Gantry Cranes

Feature	RTG Crane	RMG (Rail-Mounted Gantry) Crane	STS (Ship-to-Shore) Crane
Mobility	High (rubber tires)	Low (fixed rails)	Very Low (fixed rails)
Stack Height	5-6 high	6-8 high	N/A (ship unloading only)
Cost	Medium (lower infrastructure)	High (rail installation)	Very High
Automation	Possible (semi/full)	Common (fully automated)	Mostly manual/semi-auto
Best For	Yard stacking, depots	High-density terminals	Loading/unloading ships

 

Lifting Capacity 320 tons
Span (Width) 3 - 12 meters (adjustable)
Lifting Height 3 - 10 meters
Working Class A3-A5 (light to medium duty)
Hoisting Speed 0.5 - 8 m/min (variable)
Main Beam Type Single/double girder (box-type)
Power Supply 220V/380V 3-phase or manual
Control Mode Pendant control/wireless remote
Hoist Type Electric chain hoist/wire rope hoist
Travel Drive Manual push or motorized
Corrosion Protection Hot-dip galvanized or marine-grade paint
Wind Resistance Up to Beaufort scale 6 (for outdoor use)
Operating Temp -20°C to +50°C

 

A Rubber Tyre Container Lifting Gantry Crane (RTG) consists of several key structural, mechanical, and electrical components that work together to ensure efficient container handling. Below is a breakdown of the major components:

 

1. Structural Components

A. Gantry Frame (Main Girder & Legs)

The primary load-bearing structure, usually made of high-strength steel.

Includes two vertical legs and a top beam (girder) that spans the container stacks.

Designed to withstand heavy loads and dynamic forces during lifting.

 

B. Boom (Trolley Girder)

Supports the trolley and spreader mechanism.

Can be fixed or telescopic, depending on the crane's design.

C. Portal Frame

Allows the crane to straddle multiple container rows (e.g., 6+1 or 7+1 configurations).

 

2. Mobility & Steering Components

A. Rubber Tires & Wheels

Heavy-duty, puncture-resistant tires for smooth movement.

Typically 4 to 8 wheels (some models have dual-wheel configurations).

B. Steering System

90° Cross Steering – Allows sideways movement for precise positioning.

Crab Steering – Diagonal movement capability.

360° Steering – Some advanced models can rotate fully.

 

C. Drive Motors & Axles

Hydraulic or electric motors power the wheels.

Axles are designed for heavy loads and maneuverability.

D. Braking System

Disc or drum brakes for safe stopping.

Anti-slip and anti-skid mechanisms for stability.

3. Lifting & Handling Components

A. Hoisting Mechanism

Wire Rope & Sheaves – Lifts the container via a motorized winch system.

Hoist Motor – Electric or hydraulic, with variable speed control.

B. Trolley System

Moves horizontally along the boom to position the spreader.

Powered by electric or hydraulic drive.

C. Spreader (Twist Lock Mechanism)

Adjustable to handle 20ft, 40ft, 45ft, and even twin-lift containers.

Uses twist locks to securely grip containers.

May include semi-automatic or fully automatic locking systems.

 

 

4. Power & Control Systems

A. Power Source

Diesel Engine – Common in traditional RTGs.

Electric (Cable Reel or Busbar) – Used in electrified RTGs for eco-friendly operation.

Hybrid (Diesel + Battery) – Emerging trend for energy efficiency.

B. Control Cabin

Operator cabin with ergonomic controls, joysticks, and monitoring screens.

Some modern RTGs have remote-control or automated systems.

C. PLC & Automation System

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) – Manages crane movements.

Anti-Sway System – Reduces container swinging during transport.

Collision Avoidance Sensors – Prevents accidents with other equipment.

D. Safety Systems

Overload Protection – Prevents lifting beyond capacity.

Limit Switches – Stops movement at safe boundaries.

Emergency Stop (E-Stop) – Instantly halts operations in case of danger.

 

5. Support & Auxiliary Components

A. Outriggers / Stabilizers

Extendable legs for additional stability during lifting.

B. Lighting & Warning Systems

LED lights for night operations.

Audible alarms and flashing beacons for safety.

C. Lubrication System

Automatic greasing for wheels, gears, and bearings.

 

6. Optional Advanced Features

GPS & RFID Tracking – For automated container positioning.

Remote Monitoring (IoT Sensors) – Predictive maintenance and real-time diagnostics.

Regenerative Braking – Recovers energy in electric RTGs.

SKETCH

 

Main technical

 

Rubber Tyre Gantry Cranes (RTGs) are widely used in ports, terminals, and depots due to their flexibility, mobility, and efficiency in container handling. Here are their key advantages:

1. High Mobility & Flexibility

No fixed rails required – Moves freely on rubber tires, allowing easy relocation within the yard.

Can service multiple container stacks without needing a fixed path like Rail-Mounted Gantry (RMG) cranes.

2. Cost-Effective Infrastructure

Lower initial setup cost compared to RMGs since no rail tracks are needed.

Ideal for temporary or expanding terminals where infrastructure changes may occur.

3. High Stacking Capacity

Can stack containers up to 5–6 high, optimizing yard space.

Suitable for dense container storage in busy ports.

4. Versatile Handling

Adjustable spreader allows handling of 20ft, 40ft, 45ft, and even twin-lift containers.

Can work in intermodal terminals (transferring between trucks, trains, and yard stacks).

5. Adaptable Power Options

Diesel-powered RTGs – Suitable for remote locations without electrical infrastructure.

Electric & Hybrid RTGs – Reduce emissions and operational costs in modern ports.

6. Automation & Smart Features

Can be semi-automated or fully automated for unmanned operations.

GPS, RFID, and IoT sensors enable real-time tracking and predictive maintenance.

7. Better Maneuverability

Multiple steering modes (90° cross-steering, crab steering, 360° rotation) for precise positioning.

Anti-sway systems improve safety during container movement.

RTGs are primarily used in container handling operations across different logistics environments:

1. Port Container Terminals

Stacking and retrieving containers in storage yards.

Transferring containers between ships, trucks, and trains.

2. Intermodal Freight Terminals

Loading/unloading containers from trucks to rail cars.

Temporary storage before onward transportation.

3. Container Depots & Logistics Hubs

Maintenance and storage of empty containers.

Rearranging container stacks for efficient retrieval.

4. Industrial & Manufacturing Facilities

Handling heavy cargo in large factories (e.g., steel, machinery).

Warehouse logistics for oversized containerized goods.

5. Military & Emergency Logistics

Rapid deployment in temporary ports or disaster relief zones.

Mobile container handling in remote locations.

 

The production process of a 200-ton mobile boat/marine lift crane involves several stages, from design and engineering to fabrication, assembly, and testing. Below is a detailed breakdown of the typical production process:

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1. Design & Engineering

Conceptual Design: Engineers create initial sketches and 3D models based on load capacity (200 tons), reach, mobility, and environmental conditions (marine use).

Structural Analysis: Finite Element Analysis (FEA) ensures the crane can handle dynamic loads, wind, and wave forces.

Hydraulic & Electrical Systems: Design of hydraulic cylinders, winches, and control systems for smooth lifting operations.

Material Selection: High-strength steel (e.g., ASTM A514) for corrosion resistance in marine environments.

Regulatory Compliance: Meets standards like DNV-GL, ABS, or Lloyd's Register for marine cranes.

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2. Material Procurement

Steel Plates & Beams: Sourced for the boom, chassis, and structural framework.

Hydraulic Components: Pumps, cylinders, hoses, and valves from certified suppliers.

Electrical Systems: Motors, sensors, and control panels (often waterproof for marine use).

Wire Ropes & Sheaves: High-grade steel cables for lifting.

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3. Fabrication

A. Structural Fabrication

Cutting & Shaping: CNC plasma/laser cutting for precision parts.

Welding: Automated and manual welding (Submerged Arc Welding for thick sections).

Boom Construction: Lattice or telescopic design for strength and mobility.

Chassis & Outriggers: Reinforced for stability during lifts.

B. Hydraulic & Mechanical Assembly

Hydraulic System: Installation of pumps, cylinders, and hoses.

Winches & Drums: Mounted for lifting and lowering operations.

Slewing Mechanism: Allows 360° rotation (if applicable).

C. Electrical & Control Systems

Control Cabin: Waterproof operator station with joysticks/sensors.

Load Monitoring: Load cells and limit switches for safety.

Power Supply: Diesel engine or electric motor (marine-grade).

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4. Assembly & Integration

Boom Installation: Mounted onto the chassis with pivot points.

Counterweights: Added for balance (if required).

Final Wiring & Plumbing: Connecting hydraulic and electrical systems.

Painting & Coating: Anti-corrosion paint (epoxy or zinc coatings).

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5. Testing & Quality Control

Load Testing: Lifting 200 tons (+25% overload test, per standards).

Functional Tests: Checking hydraulic movements, rotation, and stability.

Environmental Tests: Salt spray tests for marine durability.

Safety Checks: Emergency stop systems, overload alarms.

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6. Delivery & Commissioning

Transport: Disassembled for shipping or delivered as a mobile unit.

On-Site Assembly: Reassembled at the dock or shipyard.

Operator Training: Handling and safety protocols.

Workshop view:

The company has installed an intelligent equipment management platform, and has installed 310 sets (sets) of handling and welding robots. After the completion of the plan, there will be more than 500 sets (sets), and the equipment networking rate will reach 95%. 32 welding lines have been put into use, 50 are planned to be installed, and the automation rate of the entire product line has reached 85%.