Overhead Crane Solutions for Ceramic Sanitary Ware Production

At a Glance: Kelude Heavy Industry provides crane configuration solutions for ceramic and sanitary ware manufacturers, covering the four key stages of raw material preparation, forming and pressing, kiln firing, and packaging & warehousing. Solutions are tailored for lifting capacities from 1 to 20 short tons (0.9 to 18.1 metric tons) and spans from 26 to 98 ft (8 to 30 m), with a typical complete plant investment of approximately $22,000 to $222,000 USD. The raw material area is equipped with grab buckets or single-girder electric cranes (5–10 short tons), the forming area uses clean-type KBK systems (1–3 short tons), the firing area features high-temperature-resistant electric hoists (3–8 short tons), and the packaging area utilizes light-duty KBK systems (0.5–2 short tons) — meeting the full-process hoisting needs from raw material ball milling to finished product packaging.

Ceramic and sanitary ware manufacturing (raw material ball mills 10–50 short tons/unit, spray drying towers 20–80 short tons, presses 5–30 short tons, kilns 330–980 ft / 100–300 m long) is a heavy industry characterized by high temperatures and high dust levels. We recommend a QD double-girder crane (20–50 short tons) with high-temperature-resistant features, an MH gantry crane (10–20 short tons), and an explosion-proof KBK system. Kelude's ceramic industry solutions feature a full range of temperature-resistant and dustproof designs.

Industry Solution
Crane Selection for Ceramic & Sanitary Ware Manufacturing
Raw Material · Forming · Firing · Packaging
Ceramic Manufacturing · Four-Stage Hoisting Scenarios Raw Material Prep Ball Mill 10–50 short tons Spray Tower 20–80 short tons QD 50 short tons, Heat-Resistant Dustproof Sealing IP55 Forming Press 5–30 short tons Die 1,100–6,600 lb (500 kg–3 short tons) MH 10 short tons Hydraulic Die Cart Firing Kiln 330–980 ft (100–300 m) Kiln Car 3–8 short tons/car Electric Flat Car Heat-Resistant Bearings Packaging <text x="67" y="4
Ceramic and sanitary ware manufacturing (floor/wall tiles, toilets, washbasins) spans six key stages: raw material ball milling, slurry preparation, spray drying, pressing, drying, glazing, kiln firing, grading, and packaging. This article focuses on crane configuration solutions for the three core processes: raw material preparation, pressing, and kiln firing.

Raw Material Preparation — Ball Mill & Spray Tower Installation and Maintenance

The raw material workshop centers on ball mills (batch or continuous type, 10–50t per unit, drum diameter 2–4m) and spray drying towers (tower diameter 6–12m, height 15–25m, total weight of tower plus hot-air system 20–80t). Ball mill liners (5–15t per set) are replaced every 2–3 years, while spray towers undergo major overhaul every 5–8 years. The workshop has high dust concentration (ceramic raw material dust with free SiO₂ content ≥10%), requiring dustproof and explosion-proof measures.

Recommended model: QD-type double-girder bridge crane, 20–50t / span 18–24m, high-temperature-resistant dustproof version (IP55-sealed motor, positive pressure dustproof control box). Ball mill drum replacement uses a C-hook spreader (20t capacity, rubber-coated to protect the drum surface). Spray tower maintenance uses a dedicated tower-internal basket (500kg capacity) hoisted by an electric hoist at the tower top.

Price reference: QD double-girder 20t/20m approximately $27,000–$45,000 per unit (dustproof version +15%). Kelude's ceramic raw material workshop solution includes dust covers and positive pressure control boxes, extending motor service life by 2x.

Pressing & Forming — Die Change and Press Maintenance

Ceramic presses (5–30t per unit) form floor/wall tile and sanitary ware blanks. Dies (500kg–3t per set) are changed 1–3 times daily depending on product specifications. Press top beams (3–8t) and main hydraulic cylinders (1–3t) must be lifted out for maintenance. Press workshop clear height is 8–12m, with overhead crane operating space required above the presses. The die storage area needs multi-tier die racks (shelf clear height 1.2–1.5m).

Recommended model: MH-type single-girder gantry crane, 10t / span 10–14m, covering both the press maintenance zone and die change area. Paired with a hydraulic die cart (5t capacity) and quick die clamping system (die change ≤15 minutes). Die racks are served by a jib crane (1t) for die storage and retrieval.

Price reference: MH gantry crane 10t approximately $12,000–$22,000 per unit. Kelude's pressing solution integrates the hydraulic die cart, die racks, and jib crane into a linked system.

Kiln Firing — Kiln Car Handling and Kiln Maintenance

Roller hearth and tunnel kilns (100–300m long) carry green ware into the kiln on kiln cars (including refractory material, 3–8t per car) for firing at 1100–1250°C, then out the discharge end. Kiln car rails run the full kiln length, requiring loading/unloading machinery at both the charge and discharge ends. Kilns are serviced every 2–3 years (replacing rollers/refractory bricks), which requires scaffolding and crane assistance.

Recommended model: Electric flat cars (5–10t capacity, rails aligned with kiln car tracks) transfer kiln cars at both kiln ends. For kiln maintenance, a mobile gantry (1t lifting capacity) is set up inside the kiln to replace rollers (10–30kg each, 2–4m long). A jib crane handles finished product handling after discharge.

Price reference: Electric flat car 5t approximately $4,500–$7,500 per unit. Kelude's kiln solution includes high-temperature-resistant flat cars (bearings rated to 200°C) with remote control operation and anti-collision stop.

Equipment Weight
5–80t
Ball mill to spray tower
Kiln Temperature
1250°C
Firing temperature
Kiln Length
100–300m
Roller hearth / tunnel kiln

Ceramic Industry Crane Configuration Guide

Kelude Heavy Industry: Overhead & Gantry Crane Solutions

Kelude Heavy Industry specializes in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of heavy-duty overhead cranes, gantry cranes, and electric hoists. With a strong focus on safety, reliability, and performance, our material handling equipment is built to meet the rigorous demands of industrial environments across the globe.

Engineered for Performance and Durability

Our cranes are constructed using high-strength steel and advanced welding techniques, ensuring long-term structural integrity even under continuous, heavy-load operation. Key components are sourced from reputable global brands, guaranteeing precise movement and minimal downtime. Every crane undergoes strict quality control and load testing before delivery.

Comprehensive Crane Types for Diverse Applications

We offer a full range of material handling solutions tailored to various industrial sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, steel processing, and power generation. Our product lineup is designed to optimize workflow efficiency and safety in any workspace.

Crane TypeTypical Applications
Single-Girder Overhead CraneLight-to-medium duty workshops, maintenance bays, and assembly lines.
Double-Girder Overhead CraneHeavy-duty production, high-capacity lifting, and large-span facilities.
Gantry CraneOutdoor yards, storage areas, and loading docks where runway systems are not feasible.
Electric Wire Rope HoistPrecise, high-speed lifting on a single-girder crane or monorail system.

Key Features for Enhanced Safety and Control

Safety is paramount in our crane designs. Standard features include overload protection, emergency stop functions, and anti-sway technology for precise load positioning. Our variable-frequency drive (VFD) control systems ensure smooth acceleration and deceleration, reducing mechanical stress and extending equipment lifespan.

Customized Solutions and After-Sales Support

Recognizing that every facility has unique requirements, we provide customized crane solutions—from span and lifting height to specialized end effectors and automation interfaces. Our dedicated engineering team works closely with clients to deliver a crane that perfectly fits their operational needs. We also offer comprehensive after-sales support, including installation, commissioning, training, and readily available spare parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the typical lead time for a standard overhead crane?
A: Lead time varies depending on the crane's specifications and customization level. Generally, a standard crane can be delivered within 30 to 60 days after design approval.

Q: Do you provide installation services?
A: Yes, our professional installation team can handle the complete setup, including on-site assembly, alignment, and testing, ensuring safe and immediate operation.

Q: What is the warranty period for your cranes?
A: We offer a standard 12-month warranty covering all major components. Extended warranty options are also available upon request.

Q: Can you customize the crane's span and lifting height?
A: Absolutely. We design and manufacture cranes to your exact specifications, including custom spans, lifting heights, and duty classifications.

Q: How do you ensure the quality of your cranes?
A: Our manufacturing process adheres to strict quality management systems, including ISO 9001 certification. Each crane is subjected to rigorous inspection and load testing prior to shipment.

Q: What after-sales support do you offer?
A: We provide lifetime technical support, readily available spare parts, and scheduled maintenance programs to ensure your crane operates reliably for years to come.

← Scroll left / right to view full table →
Processrecommended modeltonnagespecial requirementsreference price
Raw MaterialQDDustproof20~50tIP55/Positive Pressure Dustproof18~3010K
FormingMH+Hydraulic Die Cart10tDie Change≤15min8~1510K
FiringElectric Flat Car+Mobile Gantry5~10tTemperature Resistance200°CBearing3~510K

Kelude Service Advantages for the Ceramics Industry

A: Kelude Heavy Industry has served the ceramic sanitaryware manufacturing sector for years, backed by a 50,000 m² production base and an ISO 9001 Quality Management System. We supply high-temperature-resistant, dustproof crane solutions for wall and floor tile, sanitary ware, and household ceramics producers.

High Temperature Resistant & Dustproof Solutions

Built around the QD dustproof crane, MH die cart, and Electric Flat Car, with IP55-sealed dustproof motors and a positive pressure control box — engineered for the Dusty Environment Service of ceramic raw material workshops.

Quick Mold Change System

Standard hydraulic die cart, rapid die clamps, and die rack — press die changes in ≤15 minutes, cutting press downtime and lifting OEE to 85% or higher.

Kiln Logistics Service

Automated Electric Flat Car docking at both kiln ends plus a mobile gantry for in-kiln Maintenance — reducing manual cart handling and operator strain.

FAQ

Q: What lifting capacity is required for changing ceramic press dies?
A: For a ceramic press (using a 7200t press as an example), the upper die sleeve weighs 3–8t, the lower die sleeve weighs 2–5t, and the die core weighs 0.5–2t. The lifting capacity is determined by the heaviest die assembly × a 1.25 safety factor — a 10t or 16t electric hoist overhead crane is recommended. Dies are changed once per production cycle (every 10–20 days). Given the high precision requirements for die alignment (clearance ≤0.1mm), a variable frequency micro-speed of 0.6m/min with a laser-assisted alignment system is recommended.
Q: How is the temperature resistance rating determined for cranes in kiln areas?
A: The outer roof surface of ceramic roller kilns and tunnel kilns typically reaches 80–120°C, and thermal radiation can spike to 150°C when inspection hatches are opened during maintenance. Kelude's heat-resistant solution includes: Class H insulated motors (rated for 180°C), water-cooled electrical control boxes, and 10 mm ceramic fiber insulation wrapped around the main girder. The wire rope is a manganese phosphating coating heat-resistant type rated for 200°C. Cranes serving kiln areas must undergo inspection and maintenance one week prior to scheduled kiln shutdowns to ensure zero downtime during intensive maintenance periods.
Q: How does the KBK system on a ceramic packaging line handle multiple tile sizes?
A: Ceramic tile formats range from 300×300 mm to 1200×2400 mm, so the KBK lifting spreader must accommodate a wide variety of dimensions. Kelude recommends an adjustable-type vacuum lifter system—suction cup spacing is infinitely adjustable via electric or pneumatic actuators, and the PLC automatically reconfigures the cup layout based on the tile format. When switching tile sizes, the spreader completes the adjustment on its own (≤5 seconds) with no manual changeover required. The suction cups feature soft silicone contact surfaces that won't scratch the glazed finish.
Q: What lifting fixture is used for hoisting sanitary ware (toilets and basins)?
A: Sanitary ware has irregular shapes and a glazed surface that is prone to chipping, so standard hooks or suction cups are not suitable. Kelude's dedicated sanitary ware lifting spreader uses an inflatable bladder gripping fixture—the flexible bladder adapts to the contour of the piece under pressure, while a flocked fabric contact layer protects the glaze. A pressure sensor inside the fixture maintains a clamping force of 1.5–2.5 bar; if pressure drops, hoisting stops automatically and an alarm sounds. The spreader can handle one to two pieces per cycle, delivering a 2–3x efficiency improvement.

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