In metallurgical environments, lifting equipment must meet extremely high standards for safety, durability, and thermal resistance. This project showcases the successful supply of a European-style double girder overhead crane designed specifically for a metallurgical end user in Côte d’Ivoire, where the crane is used to transport molten lead to a refining plant under demanding operating conditions.
Project Overview
The crane was delivered under CIF Abidjan terms with a production and delivery cycle of 40 working days, shipped by sea. Payment was arranged via T/T 70%, reflecting strong mutual trust between both parties. As an end user in the metallurgical industry, the customer placed great emphasis on quality, safety standards, and strict compliance with their own technical drawings.
The final solution was a European double girder overhead crane, model QDY, with a 7/3-ton rated capacity, a span of 18.22 meters, and a lifting height of 7.75 meters. The crane operates via radio remote control and pendant control, powered by 400V, 50Hz, three-phase electricity, ensuring stable and precise handling in a high-temperature environment.
Technical Configuration and Special Requirements
Unlike ordinary industrial cranes, this application required a true metallurgical double girder overhead crane. During initial communication, the customer presented their drawings but did not clearly specify the metallurgical nature of the application. A standard double girder crane was initially quoted. Once the customer clarified that the crane would handle liquid lead at elevated temperatures, the project requirements changed significantly.
The crane was upgraded to meet a working class A7 (with actual operating conditions at A5), incorporating a thermal insulation layer to protect structural and electrical components from radiant heat. The installation height was fixed at 9.41 meters, with column elevation at 7.8 meters, requiring precise dimensional control. The main steel structure was manufactured from Q345 high-strength steel, ensuring excellent load-bearing capacity and fatigue resistance.
To enhance operational reliability, Schneider frequency inverters were selected for smooth speed control, while the electrical cabinet was equipped with a forced air-cooling system to maintain stable temperatures in harsh conditions. Special attention was also paid to dimensional constraints: the end carriage length of the crane travel mechanism was strictly limited to 4472 mm, and motor power ratings were aligned precisely with the customer’s reference drawings.
The system was completed with 60×40 rails (18 m × 2) and a 250A seamless conductor bar (18 m), ensuring stable power supply and long service life.
Customer Communication and Decision Process
The customer had previous experience with German-brand metallurgical cranes, which offered reliable performance but at a significantly higher cost. By clearly explaining the structural, thermal, and duty-class differences between ordinary cranes and metallurgical double girder overhead cranes, we demonstrated our technical expertise and ability to meet international standards while maintaining a competitive price.
Through fast response, professional clarification, and precise customization based on the customer’s drawings, confidence was established. Ultimately, the customer decided to place the order with us, recognizing the balance between engineering quality, customization capability, and cost efficiency.
Conclusion
This project highlights how a properly engineered double girder overhead crane can safely and efficiently support metallurgical operations involving high temperatures and heavy loads. With European design standards, advanced electrical components, and strict adherence to customer specifications, the crane provides a reliable long-term solution for demanding industrial environments—proving that customized Chinese-manufactured cranes can successfully compete with established European brands in high-end applications.
Post time: Jan-30-2026
