Top Riding Cranes

     Top Riding Cranes are usually used for higher capacities generally 10-tons and greater.  They are generally floor supported from columns that are secured directly to the floor.  Basic structural steel shapes can often be used for both the supporting columns and the runway beams.  These cranes often ride on ASCE crane rails mounted to the top of the runway beam.  Advantages of a top riding crane over an underhung crane would be greater headroom.  Since the hoist generally rides on the top of the bridge girder, greater hook heights can be achieved with top riding cranes.  Also since the cranes are often floor supported there is no longer the need for the building support steel to be able to support the crane system as in an underhung crane application.