A semi-gantry crane omits some or all supports on one side. This can improve access when the material flow, hall structure and load attachment are planned together. The following project example shows an ezzLINK crane system with two bridges.
The semi-gantry is similar to a portal crane but omits one or all legs on one side. A key advantage in this example is that supports stand only along one long side—for example along a wall or in front of concrete columns as shown.
Keep access to the working area clear
In this layout, crane supports are omitted along one long side of the working area. This reduces potential forklift impact points; traffic routes and remaining obstructions still need to be considered in workstation planning. Full portals always have supports on all sides, usually with impact protection that consumes additional space. Best Handling Technology installed a 12 m long, 6 m wide semi-gantry to match the grid of a large hall. For maximum flexibility it has two crane bridges. The work area is accessible from all sides and can be split as needed. Inbound and outbound flows adapt continuously to utilisation and product size. Capacity is 250 kg per bridge.
Custom combination with balancer or vacuum lifter
Many hoists suit crane systems. Logistics handles every product type. Loads with lifting eyes often use chain hoists, simple or infinitely variable. Loading, palletising, and picking often involve cartons, drums, and sacks—the ezzFAST vacuum lifter is ideal.
It is used wherever speed matters. Goods are moved quickly, safely, and ergonomically. Besides typical packages—up to six per minute—cups can be built for buckets, crates, sheets, panels, rolls, coils, and special parts. ezzFAST lifts up to 400 kg and is available for different environments: fittings and lift hose for low headroom, telescopic controls for high stacks, tilt/rotate/empty devices with electric or pneumatic assist, hygienic and ATEX versions. It relieves staff of heavy lifting and lets them work tasks that previously needed a second person.
ezzLINKrack semi-gantry: flexible in use
For sensitive products requiring care, Best Handling Technology recommends the ezzFLOW balancer—no jerky lifting/lowering, no shock loads, vibration-free operation.
The ezzFLOWsmart also combines well with semi-gantries; its flexibility supports many end effectors.
Electric or pneumatic drive holds the load in float while the operator focuses on the task. Programming delays, returns, and speeds at the on-site display gives maximum flexibility.
Does a semi-gantry suit your hall?
To assess the task, we need the working envelope, load including the gripping tool, required lift height and hall-structure information. Also describe traffic routes, transfer points and the number of bridges intended to operate at the same time. The dimensions and capacities above apply to the project shown.
See ezzLINK crane systems for system information. Discuss your working area with BHT.