The story of the gantry crane begins in ancient Greece.
Even thousands of years ago, Greek architects used ingenious lifting systems to raise massive stone blocks for their monumental temples and buildings. These early mechanical constructions are considered the first cranes in history – a breakthrough in engineering that shaped modern lifting technology.
From the First Greek Cranes to Today’s Gantry Systems
The gantry crane takes its name from its gate-like frame, which spans the working area like a portal. Supported by stable legs and a cross beam, it allows heavy loads to be lifted and moved safely – without the need for counterweights, as long as the beam remains within the supports.
With an additional wheel system, this crane design became a mobile and flexible lifting solution, perfectly adaptable to different working environments.
Lightweight Aluminium Gantry Cranes by SCHILLING
What once began with ropes, pulleys, and wooden beams has been refined through centuries of innovation.
Today, SCHILLING’s lightweight aluminium gantry cranes represent the modern evolution of the ancient Greek crane – strong, mobile, and highly precise.
These modular systems combine minimal weight with maximum stability, making them ideal for a wide range of lifting tasks.
Where Gantry Cranes Are Used Today
From industrial production and construction sites to vehicle workshops, harbours, and even archaeological excavations – SCHILLING gantry cranes are used wherever heavy loads need to be lifted safely and accurately.
Their reliability and versatility make them an essential tool for professionals across multiple industries, including delicate environments where precision and safety are crucial.
Detailed information on the Case Study can be found here.
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Who invented the first crane?
The first cranes were developed in ancient Greece. Engineers used rope and pulley systems to lift large stone blocks during temple construction.
Why is it called a “gantry crane”?
The term “gantry” comes from the crane’s gate-like shape that spans an area like a portal or archway.
What makes a gantry crane different from other cranes?
Unlike tower or mobile cranes, gantry cranes can lift loads between their supports without counterweights, offering exceptional stability and flexibility.
Where are lightweight aluminium gantry cranes used?
They are used in manufacturing, construction, logistics, and archaeology – anywhere that requires precise, portable, and safe lifting.
What are the advantages of SCHILLING’s aluminium gantry cranes?
They are easy to assemble, lightweight yet durable, mobile under load, and perfectly suited for indoor or outdoor applications.
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