Case Study: Providing an Integrated Indoor and Outdoor Lifting Solution for a Portuguese Factory

Introduction
In 2024, Dongqi Crane collaborated with a manufacturing facility in Portugal to address their comprehensive material handling needs. The project involved not only supplying a suite of overhead cranes for interior operations but also extending lifting capabilities outdoors through a custom-engineered semi-gantry crane installation. This case details our holistic approach, from equipment supply to structural adaptation.

Client Objectives
The client required a reliable and efficient lifting system to support various production stages within their main workshop. Additionally, they needed a robust solution for handling heavier loads and facilitating logistics in the outdoor yard area adjacent to the factory building. The key challenges included matching crane spans precisely to the existing indoor column layout and creating a stable, weather-resistant support structure for outdoor operations.

The Tailored Lifting System
Our solution comprised two seamlessly integrated components:

1. Indoor Efficiency with HD Series Overhead Cranes
A fleet of HD-type double girder overhead cranes was deployed inside the workshop, each configured for specific tasks and locations:

• High-Capacity Zones: Two 10-ton cranes (spans: 16.695m and 16.67m) and one 5-ton crane (span: 16.695m) were installed for primary heavy-duty lifting.
• Flexible Handling: Three 3-ton cranes (spans: 16.67m x 2, 16.864m) and one 2-ton crane (span: 7.8m) provided versatility for lighter and more frequent operations across different bays.
• Unified Performance: All HD cranes were equipped with energy-efficient NR-type European-style electric wire rope hoists, ensuring smooth, precise, and low-headroom operation. A standard lifting height of 6 meters (H6M) and a 380V/50Hz/3P power supply ensured operational consistency and safety.

2. Outdoor Capability with a Custom-Installed BMGO Semi-Gantry Crane
To bridge indoor production with outdoor logistics, a BMGO32T-6.2M H7M semi-gantry crane was selected for the yard. This 32-ton capacity crane, with its 7-meter lifting height (H7M), was ideal for handling larger loads outside. The installation required a custom engineering approach:

• Structural Support: Our team designed and built a dedicated steel structure along the factory’s exterior wall to securely support the crane’s runway.
• Integrated Installation: We installed the full-length track on this new structure, ensuring perfect alignment and stability for the semi-gantry crane’s travel. This turnkey approach provided the client with a complete, ready-to-operate outdoor lifting station.

Project Implementation and Client Value

• Precision Planning: The varied crane spans (e.g., 16.695m, 7.8m, 16.864m) were carefully chosen to utilize the workshop’s footprint optimally without requiring structural modifications.
• Seamless Workflow Integration: The indoor HD cranes streamline internal material movement, while the outdoor BMGO crane efficiently manages loading, unloading, and external transfers. The shared design philosophy of the NR hoists across all equipment simplifies operator training and maintenance.
• Turnkey Responsibility: From the supply of standard overhead cranes to the custom design and construction of outdoor support infrastructure, Dongqi Crane managed the project as a unified solution, reducing complexity for the client.

Conclusion
This project for the Portuguese factory demonstrates Dongqi Crane’s capability to deliver more than just equipment. We provide integrated material handling solutions that consider the entire operational flow, both inside and outside the facility. Our strength lies in understanding specific spatial and operational constraints, then combining reliable standard products with necessary custom engineering to create a cohesive, efficient, and safe lifting environment.