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Electric Overhead Travelling (EOT) Cranes: A Complete Guide

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Introduction
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Introduction?

Electric Overhead Travelling (EOT) cranes are a backbone of heavy material handling in manufacturing plants, warehouses, shipyards, and construction sites. Designed to lift and transport loads across a fixed span, EOT cranes are highly efficient, reliable, and customizable for different industrial needs.

In today’s competitive industrial landscape, companies are under constant pressure to improve productivity while ensuring safety and precision. EOT cranes answer that need by providing smooth and controlled lifting operations, minimizing manual labor, and handling loads ranging from a few hundred kilograms to hundreds of tons.

This guide covers everything you need to know about EOT cranes—how they work, their types, components, applications, safety measures, and the latest technological advancements.


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What is an EOT Crane?

An Electric Overhead Travelling crane is a type of overhead crane powered by electricity and mounted on elevated rails along a fixed path. It consists of a bridge beam that travels along the runway rails, a trolley that moves across the bridge, and a hoist for lifting and lowering loads.

EOT cranes are widely used because they can handle large, heavy loads with precision and without taking up valuable floor space.


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Main Components of an EOT Crane

Understanding the key parts of an EOT crane helps in both operation and maintenance.

1. Bridge
The horizontal structure that spans across the working area, supported by end trucks on each side. The bridge carries the trolley and hoist.

2. Runway
The fixed rails mounted on building columns or gantries along which the crane moves.

3. End Trucks
Fitted at both ends of the bridge, these house the wheels that run on the runway rails.

4. Trolley
Moves along the bridge, carrying the hoist.

5. Hoist
The lifting device equipped with a drum, motor, wire rope or chain, and hook.

6. Control System
Includes pendant controls, radio remote controls, or operator cabins.

7. Electric Motors
Power the crane movement, trolley travel, and hoist lifting.

8. Braking System
Ensures controlled stopping and prevents accidental load drop.


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Types of EOT Cranes

EOT cranes are classified based on design and operation.

1. Single Girder EOT Crane
Design: One main bridge girder.
Capacity: Up to 20 tons (common range).
Applications: Light to medium-duty industrial work.
Advantages: Cost-effective, lighter, easier to install.



2. Double Girder EOT Crane
Design: Two bridge girders for extra strength.
Capacity: 10 tons to over 500 tons.
Applications: Heavy-duty manufacturing, steel plants, shipyards.
Advantages: Greater lifting height, higher capacity.



3. Underslung EOT Crane
Design: Runs on the bottom flange of runway beams.
Applications: Areas with limited headroom.



4. Top-Running EOT Crane
Design: Wheels run on top of the runway beams.
Advantages: Higher lifting capacity, more headroom.




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Working Principle of an EOT Crane

The EOT crane moves loads in three motions:

1. Long Travel (LT) – The bridge moves along the length of the building on runway rails.
2. Cross Travel (CT) – The trolley moves across the bridge.
3. Hoisting – The hoist lifts or lowers the load.
Power Supply is generally provided through:
Festoon System
Cable Reel
Conductor Bar System
Control is via pendant push buttons, remote control, or operator cabin.


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Applications of EOT Cranes:

EOT cranes are essential in industries such as:
Steel & Metal Industry – Handling molten metal, raw materials, and heavy components.
Manufacturing Plants – Moving parts along the production line.
Shipbuilding – Transporting large ship components.
Warehouses – Storing and retrieving heavy goods.
Power Plants – Maintenance of turbines, generators, and boilers.
Automotive Industry – Moving vehicle frames and parts.



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Advantages of EOT Cranes:

High Load Capacity
Efficient Space Utilization
Reduced Manual Labor
Smooth and Precise Control
Enhanced Safety Features
Customizable for Specific Needs



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Safety Measures for EOT Cranes:

Safety is critical in EOT crane operation. Key measures include:

1. Regular Inspection – Check wire ropes, hooks, and safety latches.
2. Overload Protection – Avoid lifting beyond rated capacity.
3. Proper Signaling – Use standard hand or radio signals.
4: Training Operators – Certified training to ensure safe operation.
5. Limit Switches – Prevent over-travel of hoist and trolley.
6. Emergency Stop Systems – Quick power cut-off in emergencies.




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Maintenance Practices:

Routine maintenance extends crane life and ensures safety:
Lubricate moving parts regularly.
Check for wear on wire ropes and chains.
Inspect electrical connections.
Tighten bolts and nuts.
Replace worn-out parts promptly.



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Latest Technological Trends in EOT Cranes:

1. Automation & Remote Monitoring – IoT-enabled cranes track performance and maintenance needs.
2. Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) – Provide smooth speed control and energy efficiency.
3. Anti-Collision Systems – Prevent accidents in multi-crane operations.
4. Load Sway Control – Minimizes oscillations for precise placement.
5. Smart Safety Systems – AI-based predictive maintenance alerts.

Step-by-Step: How to Select the Right EOT Crane:

1. Determine Load Capacity Needs
Identify the maximum weight you’ll lift.
2. Measure Span and Lifting Height
Ensure the crane fits the facility dimensions.
3. Choose Girder Type
Single girder for lighter loads, double girder for heavy duty.
4. Select Power Supply System
Match with the facility’s electrical setup.
5. Consider Environment
Corrosive or hazardous areas require special designs.
6. Decide Control Method
Pendant, remote, or cabin control.

Conclusion

Electric Overhead Travelling cranes have transformed the way industries handle heavy materials. With advancements in automation, safety systems, and energy efficiency, modern EOT cranes not only improve productivity but also ensure worker safety.

Investing in the right crane, coupled with proper training and maintenance, ensures years of reliable and efficient operation—making EOT cranes an indispensable asset in modern industry


























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