Single girder overhead cranes use a single beam to support the hoist, which typically runs along the underside of the crane. This design offers a cost-effective and efficient solution for a range of lifting operations. Single girder cranes are commonly used in workshops, warehouses, and light manufacturing environments where lifting requirements are moderate and efficiency is key. At Harold Potter, we design & manufacture, install, refurbish and maintain single girder overhead cranes tailored to the specific requirements of each customer.

Single Girder Overhead Crane Key Features
Single girder overhead cranes offer a number of advantages for industrial lifting operations. Their simpler design often results in lower manufacturing and installation costs while still providing excellent lifting performance. Due to their smaller size and crane-weight, they are more suited to smaller warehouses and businesses who are operating with lighter capacities. Therefore, there is a reduced structural load on the building framework. The more compact design makes single girders ideal for operations where there is more limited headroom space.
Typical Applications for Single Girder Cranes
Single girder overhead cranes are commonly used in manufacturing facilities, engineering workshops, fabrication plants, warehouses and maintenance departments. They are well suited to applications involving routine lifting operations, material handling and production support where a dependable lifting solution is required.
Single Girder vs Double Girder Cranes
The main difference between a single girder and double girder crane is the bridge structure. A single girder crane uses one bridge beam with the hoist positioned beneath it. While a double girder crane uses two bridge beams with the hoist travelling on top.
Single girder cranes are often selected where lifting requirements, spans and duty classifications can be accommodated by a lighter and more economical design. Double girder cranes are generally preferred for higher lifting capacities, larger spans and more demanding operating conditions.
Why choose Harold Potter for your Single Girder Cranes?
Established in 1921, Harold Potter has decades of experience designing, manufacturing, installing and maintaining overhead cranes, both single and double girder, for businesses across the UK. Our team of experienced overhead crane specialists provide tailored lifting solutions, from new crane installations and crane modification projects to refurbishment and servicing of existing industrial crane systems.
We offer a complete range of services, including crane design and manufacture, installation, LOLER inspections, preventative maintenance, breakdown support and obsolete crane spare parts, or for those parts on long delivery, that are urgently needed. With qualified engineers, fast response times and clear communication throughout every project, we help minimise downtime and keep your lifting operations running safely and efficiently.
Our reputation is built on quality workmanship, reliable support and long-term customer relationships. Our successful projects and customer testimonials demonstrating our commitment to delivering dependable overhead crane solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Single Girder Overhead Crane?
A single girder overhead crane uses one bridge beam to support the hoist and trolley system. The hoist typically travels beneath the girder, allowing loads to be lifted, lowered and moved safely throughout the working area.
What are the Benefits of a Single Girder Crane?
Single girder cranes offer a cost-effective lifting solution for many industrial applications. Their lighter design can reduce installation costs while providing reliable lifting performance for workshops, warehouses and manufacturing facilities.
What Industries Use Single Girder Cranes?
Single girder overhead cranes are commonly used in manufacturing, engineering, warehousing, fabrication and maintenance facilities. They are well suited to applications where regular lifting and material handling are required.
How Much Weight Can a Single Girder Crane Lift?
The lifting capacity of a single girder crane varies depending on the design and application requirements. The most suitable capacity should be determined based on the loads being handled and the operational demands of the facility.
What is the Difference Between a Single Girder and Double Girder Crane?
A single girder crane uses one bridge beam, while a double girder crane uses two. Single girder cranes are often chosen for lighter lifting applications. Whereas double girder cranes are typically selected for higher lifting capacities, longer spans and more demanding operating conditions.
Contact Us
If you’re looking for an overhead crane, contact us today!
Our expert team can advise you on whether a single girder crane is the crane that is most suited for your operation.
Call us on 01159 838 111.
