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ComponentCrane Trolley
The part that actually determines the crane's usable area.
Why hook approach is set here
The trolley and the hoist unit on it have a certain width. That width directly limits how close the hook can get to the runway — a dead zone remains unreachable at both ends.
In facilities that need to serve benches along the wall, this measurement can matter more than span or tonnage. Low-approach trolley types were developed specifically for this need.
Travel and control
Trolley travel is usually motorised and braked. On a VFD-driven system, starting and stopping is ramped; the load doesn't swing, and precise positioning becomes possible.
In heavy-duty and precision applications, a second low-speed step or stepless speed control is close to standard.
Trolley types
| Type | Where it's used |
|---|---|
| Suspended (monorail-type) trolley | On single girder cranes and monorail lines |
| Open trolley | On double girder cranes, on top of the girders |
| Low-headroom trolley | In facilities where ceiling height is critical |
| Low-approach trolley | In applications where the hook needs to reach close to the wall |
| Dual-hook trolley | Where main and auxiliary lifting are needed together |
| Rotating trolley | In processes requiring the load to be rotated on the trolley |
Technical terms
| Term | What it means |
|---|---|
| Hook approach | The closest distance the hook can get to the runway centre. |
| Dead zone | The strip near the runway the hook can't reach. |
| Building-height demand | The vertical dimension occupied by the trolley and hoist unit. |
| Travel drive | The motor–gearbox–brake group that moves the trolley. |
Frequently asked questions
Can I improve hook approach later?
To a limited extent. Changing the trolley type may make it possible, but that can mean changing the hoist unit and the power supply too. It's best to get it right from the start.
Can I increase the trolley speed?
On VFD systems it's possible to a limited extent via a parameter change; but braking distance, load sway and mechanical strain need to be assessed together.