An adjustable gantry crane is a crane that lifts uses a hoist fitted to a trolley to lift objects.  The trolley is fitted to a horizontal beam, known as an I-beam, which allows to be used to move objects in a linear path as well as a vertical path.  The I-Beam can be adjusted either with a forklift or by hand, depending on the type and size of the crane.

Larger cranes cannot be moved from place to place.  This can limit precision operations in many workshops that require a variety of objects to be moved, loaded, and unloaded on an hourly basis.  Heavier equipment, too, is often difficult for only one or two persons to operate.  Smaller, portable cranes are necessary to maintain efficiency, process flow, and general safety at all times.

Specific crane types are necessary for specific tasks.  While any crane can lift an object and move it horizontally, this does not always provide sufficient control of the item if the crane itself begins moving in tight corners.  Objects suspended from a free hanging cable may inadvertently move in an arc.  This can result in collisions with other objects, product damage, and worker injury. 

An adjustable gantry crane is much more stable.  The I-beam restricts the horizontal movement of an object to a strict linear path.  It also keeps the object steady when the crane is moved.

These portable cranes can be made of steel or aluminum.   

Steel cranes can obviously hold more weight.  Maximum capacity on the largest units is 10,000 pounds.  The I-beam on steel models can be adjusted in six inch increments with the aid of a fork truck or a come along.  Four swivel casters are standard, making the unit portable as well.  Optional V groove casters or total locking casters can be ordered upon request.

Aluminum adjustable gantry cranes combine a rigid construction with a very light weight.  They are corrosion resistant and ideal for outdoor use.   Because of its light weight, the I-beam on these units can be adjusted by hand without the need for a forklift or come along.  Two people can assemble a crane like this in minutes.  Casters are standard swivel, with other caster options also available upon request.

Adjustable gantry cranes are ideal for any application where objects must be lifted and moved to either side.  There most common use is found in the maintenance industry.  In many industrial, municipal, and agricultural environments, pumps, motors, filters, and floor mounted tools must frequently be lifted, moved to repair areas, and moved back again.

One common application is in auto mechanics, where engines must be lifted and moved to the sides of cars.  Another application is found in the tight spaces of waste water treatment plants.  Many of the large pipes and pumps in these plants are located in hard to reach places that only a crane hoist can access. 

Adjustable gantry cranes also have a number of outdoor applications.  Municipalities use them to repair pipes and pumps tied into city drinking water systems and city sewage systems.