Crane Selection Chart: Match Lifting Capacity, Span & Duty Class

The most common mistake in crane selection isn't the parameters themselves—it's how they interact. A 10t Rated Lifting Capacity Bridge Crane paired with a A3 Work Duty is perfectly suited for a Machining Workshop (light loads, low frequency). The same crane specified with a A6 Work Duty can handle a steel coil warehouse (heavy loads, high frequency). The two configurations use completely different reducers, brakes, and electrical components—and the price gap can reach 30% to 50%.

This article provides a cross-reference quick-selection chart based on Lifting Capacity × Work Duty, covering the full range of Bridge Cranes (LD/LH/QD/QDhs), Gantry Cranes (MH/MG), and Electric Hoists (CD1/ND/HC/HB/HY). For domestic projects, refer to the GB/T standard system; for export projects, refer to the EN/FEM system.

Three Steps to Lock In Your Crane Model

Step 1: Determine the Rated Lifting Capacity (SWL). This is the most prominent number on the crane nameplate. Note the distinction between the Main Hook capacity and the Auxiliary Hook capacity—32/5t means a 32t main hook plus a 5t auxiliary hook, and selection should always be based on the main hook. Step 2: Determine the Span (S). The span is the distance between the centerlines of the bridge runway rails. The standard modular increment starts at 7.5m and increases in 3m steps. Non-standard spans can be custom-built, but they require recalculating the main girder section, which adds 10% to 15% to manufacturing costs. Step 3: Determine the Work Duty (A1 to A8, or FEM 1Am to 4m). This is the most overlooked yet most critical parameter in crane selection—specify one duty class too low and the equipment will fail prematurely; one class too high and you're paying for capacity you'll never use.

Bridge Crane Selection Quick Reference

Bridge Cranes are the most widely used lifting equipment in China. They are classified by structural type into four categories: Electric Single-Girder (LD), Electric Hoist Double-Girder (LH), General-Purpose Double-Girder (QD), and European Standard Double-Girder (QDhs). The selection logic is straightforward: for light loads and low frequency (A3 to A4), choose LD or LH; for heavy loads and high frequency (A5 to A6), choose QD; for export projects requiring European standards or for large capacities (50t and above), choose QDhs.

Gantry Crane Selection at a Glance

Gantry cranes are built for outdoor duty—storage yards, docks, and precast concrete plants. When selecting a unit, you'll need to determine not only lifting capacity and work duty classification, but also cantilever length (single or double side) and wind resistance rating (inland vs. coastal). For spans exceeding 30 m, a crane bridge skew correction system is required; coastal installations come standard with wind anchors and rail clamps.

Electric Hoist Selection Quick Reference

Electric hoists are the core hoisting mechanism of any crane, and proper selection directly impacts overall performance and service life. CD1/MD1 models are standard domestic hoists (cost-effective, M3~M4), HC/HM models are European-style hoists (compact design, M5~M6), ND models are European-style wire rope hoists (high lift height, M4~M7), while explosion-proof and metallurgical hoists are purpose-built for specialized applications.

Recommended Work Duty Classifications by Industry

The configurations below are field-proven recommendations for typical applications. When selecting a crane, we recommend choosing one classification level above your calculated duty cycle as a safety margin—the cost increase for that extra level is roughly 8%–15%, yet it can extend service life by more than 30%.

FAQ: Crane Selection & Configuration

The quick-reference parameters above are based on standard configurations; final specifications are subject to the Technical Agreement for each project. For non-standard custom solutions, please contact our engineering team for a detailed quotation and proposal.