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A launching gantry, also known as a launching gantry crane or beam erection machine, is a specialized lifting device designed specifically for the handling and installation of precast concrete beams.
It is used to erect precast concrete girders, steel beams, or segmental bridge sections between bridge piers. After completing the installation of one span, the machine moves itself to the next span to continue the operation. It serves as a crucial tool in modern bridge construction.
Types of Launching Gantries:
Launching gantries can be classified in various ways based on their structural design, construction method, and drive mechanism.
A railway launching gantry (Railway Beam Launcher / Beam Launcher) is a specialized heavy-duty machine used in bridge construction for the erection and precise positioning of precast concrete beams or girders between railway and highway bridges.
It typically consists of a main girder, a truss or box-girder structure, support legs or outriggers, a beam trolley, a hydraulic system, an electrical control system, and a safety monitoring system.
This type of launcher is suitable for various bridge configurations, including straight bridges, curved bridges, and skewed bridges.
In construction, the railway launching gantry plays a critical role: it enhances beam installation efficiency, ensures accurate placement of girders, and minimizes interference with existing structures such as piers and bridge decks.
It is an indispensable piece of equipment for high-speed railways, highways, elevated bridges, and urban transit bridge projects.
1.Lightweight and High Rigidity: The main girder adopts a truss or box-girder structure, ensuring sufficient strength and stiffness while reducing its own weight. This lowers transportation and installation costs and enhances resistance to external disturbances such as wind loads and vibrations.
2.Versatility for Various Beam Types and Cross-Sections: Capable of erecting precast components of different shapes and lengths, including I-beams, T-beams, box girders, and U-beams.
3.Flexible Beam Feeding: Beams can be fed from the rear of the launching gantry onto the bridge deck, from the side of the bridge, or from beneath the bridge, accommodating different site conditions and beam transportation layouts.
4.Adjustable and Adaptive Longitudinal/Transverse Positioning: Supports a certain range of skew and slope, allowing normal operation on curved or inclined bridge sections.
5.Control and Safety Systems: Typically equipped with an electrical control system (PLC), frequency converters, overload protection, stroke/lifting limits, wind speed monitoring, and other safety devices.
| Item / Specification | HS900 | HS550 |
| Span | 24 – 32 m | 24 – 32 m |
| Rated Lifting Capacity | 900 t | 550 t |
| Maximum Beam Size | ≤ 32.6 × 13.4 × 3 m | ≤ 32.6 × 8.4 × 3 m |
| Beam Lifting Method | Three-Point Balance | Three-Point Balance |
| Gantry Traveling Speed | 0 – 3 m/min | 0 – 3 m/min |
| Gantry Traveling Type | Rail-Wheel Type | Rail-Wheel Type |
| Hoist Trolley Traveling Speed | 0 – 3 m/min | 0 – 3 m/min |
| Hoist Trolley Lifting Speed | 0 – 0.5 m/min | 0 – 0.5 m/min |
| Maximum Hoist Trolley Lifting Height | 7 m | 6.6 m |
| Beam Lateral Fine Adjustment Range | ± 200 mm | ± 200 mm |
| Beam Fine Adjustment Speed | 0 – 1 m/min | 0 – 1 m/min |
| Guide Beam Crane Lifting Capacity | 80 t | 45 t |
| Minimum Curve Radius for Erection | 2500 m | 2500 m |
| Installed Power | 300 kW | 220 kW |
| Control Method | Electromechanical-Hydraulic Integration | Electromechanical-Hydraulic Integration |
| Overall Dimensions (L × W × H) | 73.9 × 13.5 × 17.8 m | 75.8 × 11.58 × 11.8 m |
| Total Machine Weight | 584 t | 442 t |
HS 900 Segmental Launching Gantry for Pingtan Cross-Sea Bridge
A self-balancing launching gantry is a type of bridge erection equipment developed from the walking beam launcher. Unlike traditional walking beam launchers, which require counterweights or beam transport vehicles to maintain balance during span launching, a self-balancing gantry achieves equilibrium independently through its own structural design—including front legs, middle legs, rear legs, and auxiliary support legs—during span operations.
This enables it to complete span erection autonomously and return directly to the beam yard after beam transportation, thereby improving construction efficiency and safety.
This type of equipment is typically used in highway bridge construction and can also be applied to other projects requiring the erection of precast beams, including box girders, T-beams, and I-beams.
The key components of a self-balancing launching gantry include the main beam (truss or box girder), front, middle, and rear legs, auxiliary outriggers, upper cross beams, beam lifting and longitudinal/lateral positioning mechanisms, a beam trolley (or crane trolley), and the hydraulic and electrical control systems, which typically incorporate PLC control, frequency converters, limit switches, and safety monitoring devices.
1.Self-Balancing Span Capability: Maintains structural stability during span launching between bridge piers or openings without requiring additional counterweights or specialized beam transport vehicles.
2.Lightweight Structure: The main beam typically uses a truss design, reducing self-weight while maintaining high strength and stiffness, with good resistance to wind loads.
3.High Adjustability: The legs and auxiliary support outriggers can be adjusted in angle (particularly the front auxiliary leg/core plate, which can adapt up to 45° for skewed bridges). The system allows significant flexibility in span length and beam types.
4.Comprehensive Safety Control Systems: Standard configurations include emergency stop, overload protection, stroke/lifting limit switches, voltage/phase/fault protection, and wind speed monitoring (anemometer).
5.High Work Efficiency: Eliminates the need for extra manpower or counterweights, reducing preparation and transition time; after span launching, the gantry can return directly to the beam yard, shortening the overall construction cycle.
| Item | HS 30-100 | HS 30-120 | HS 30-160 | HS 30-200 | HS 30-300 |
| Rated Capacity (T) | 100 | 120 | 160 | 200 | 300 |
| Span (M) | 30 | 30 | 40 | 50 | 50 |
| Lifting Speed (m/min) | 0.79 | 0.79 | 0.7 | 0.9 | 0.7 |
| Transverse Moving Speed (m/min) | 1.5 | 1.5 | 2.25 | 1.5 | 1.5 |
| Longitudinal Moving Speed (m/min) | 3 | 3 | 4.25 | 2 | 2 |
| Trolley Transverse Speed (m/min) | 1.5 | 1.5 | 2.25 | 1.5 | 1.5 |
| Trolley Longitudinal Speed (m/min) | 3 | 3 | 4.25 | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Longitudinal Slope | 0.05 | ||||
| Maximum Applied Angle | 45° | ||||
| Adaptive Cross Slope | 0.025 | ||||
| Total Power (kW) | 65 | 65 | 75 | 110 | 150 |
HS 200T-S 40m Self-Balancing Launching Gantry for Ningxi Highway, Shanxi
A launching gantry, also known as a beam erection machine or bridge gantry, is a specialized heavy-duty machine used in bridge construction. It is designed to lift and place the main structural components of a bridge, such as precast concrete beams, onto piers or abutments.
This equipment is widely used in highway and railway bridge projects, providing an efficient and safe method for erecting bridge girders.
A launching gantry typically consists of a main beam, front, middle, and rear legs, auxiliary supports, a hoist trolley, a hydraulic system, and an electrical system. The main beam is usually made of high-strength steel with a truss structure, providing excellent load-bearing capacity and wind resistance.
1.High Efficiency: The launching gantry can quickly transport and erect beams and girders, reducing the time and labor required for bridge construction tasks.
2.Safe and Reliable: Equipped with a range of safety protection devices, including emergency stop, overload protection, stroke and lifting limit switches, under-voltage/phase loss protection, and overcurrent protection, ensuring safe and reliable operation.
3.Versatile: Capable of erecting straight, curved, and longitudinal spans, as well as variable-span twin-line precast prestressed concrete box girders. It can also adapt to bridges with different slopes and angles.
4.Easy Operation and Maintenance: The gantry features a simple structure and convenient operation. It is easy to disassemble, transport, and maintain, facilitating routine servicing and repairs.
| Item | HS 30-100 | HS 30-120 | HS 30-160 | HS 30-200 | HS 30-300 |
| Capacity (T) | 100 | 120 | 160 | 200 | 300 |
| Span (M) | 30 | 30 | 40 | 50 | 50 |
| Hoisting Speed (m/min) | 0.79 | 0.79 | 0.7 | 0.9 | 0.7 |
| Transverse Travel Speed (m/min) | 1.5 | 1.5 | 2.25 | 1.5 | 1.5 |
| Longitudinal Travel Speed (m/min) | 3 | 3 | 4.25 | 2 | 2 |
| Trolley Transverse Speed (m/min) | 1.5 | 1.5 | 2.25 | 1.5 | 1.5 |
| Trolley Longitudinal Speed (m/min) | 3 | 3 | 4.25 | 2 | 2 |
| Adaptive Longitudinal Slope | 0.05 | ||||
| Application Angle | 45° | ||||
| Adaptive Transverse Slope | 0.025 | ||||
| Total Power (KW) | 65 | 65 | 75 | 110 | 150 |
HS 180T Launching Gantry for Linxia First-Class Highway
A segmental launching gantry is a specialized piece of equipment used for the construction of precast segmental balanced cantilever bridges. It is designed to lift and position precast concrete segments or steel box girders in bridge construction projects. The segmental launching gantry is an essential tool for bridge assembly, particularly in projects involving precast segmental bridge construction.
A segmental launching gantry is typically made of structural steel and consists of a main beam, front, middle, and rear legs, auxiliary supports, a hoist trolley, a hydraulic system, and an electrical system. It is designed to self-launch via the hydraulic system, providing a safe and efficient launching process.
Mobility:
Segmental launching gantries can be equipped with steel wheels or rubber tires to enhance mobility. They can self-launch using the hydraulic system or move on rails with steel wheels. This allows them to operate in various construction environments and adapt to different site conditions.
Lifting Mechanism:
Segmental launching gantries are equipped with two electric hoists for lifting precast segments and adjusting lateral offsets. They can also use the hydraulic system to achieve controlled and precise lifting.
1.High Efficiency: Segmental launching gantries accelerate the placement of precast segments, minimizing on-site assembly time and speeding up construction progress. Their fast installation capability makes them particularly suitable for long-span bridges.
2.Safety and Reliability: Segmental gantries are designed with professional safety systems, including load sensors, emergency stop mechanisms, and fail-safe features. These functions ensure maximum construction safety and protect workers’ well-being.
3.Versatility: Segmental lifters have a wide range of applications, including bridge construction, elevated roads, viaducts, interchanges, and tunnel projects. They can operate under various height constraints and can be designed to accommodate segments of different sizes and shapes.
4.Strong Wind Resistance: The main structure of the segmental lifter features a diamond truss design, providing excellent wind resistance and ensuring safe operation.
| ItemName | Parameter |
| Model | HS1600 |
| Erection Span | 50m, 51m |
| Lifting Height of Hoisting Crane | 56m |
| Rated Lifting Capacity | 140t |
| Maximum Suspension Weight | 1600t |
HS 1600t Segmental Cantilever Launching Gantry for Shanghai Humin Elevated Highway Project
The Mobile Formwork System (MSS) is a versatile and efficient temporary support structure used for construction, maintenance, and repair work. It provides a safe and convenient working platform for personnel performing tasks at height. The system is designed for easy mobility and repositioning, allowing it to adapt effectively to a wide range of construction requirements.
A mobile scaffolding system typically consists of a main frame, horizontal braces, diagonal braces, scaffold planks, adjustable bases, and casters. The main frame is usually made of high-strength steel or aluminum alloy, providing excellent load-bearing capacity and durability.
1.Flexible Mobility: Equipped with casters, the system can be easily moved to different locations on the construction site. Some systems also feature self-propelling mechanisms or hydraulic systems to enhance mobility and positioning accuracy.
2.Modular Design: The system is composed of modular components, making it easy to assemble, disassemble, and reconfigure. This provides high flexibility and allows adaptation to various project requirements.
3.Safety-Oriented Design: Mobile scaffolding systems are equipped with multiple safety features, including guardrails, toe boards, non-slip scaffold planks, and safety ladders. They also feature a stable structure and reliable locking mechanisms to ensure worker safety during operations.
4.Versatility: Mobile scaffolding systems are suitable for a wide range of applications, including building construction, bridge construction, tunnel works, and maintenance tasks. They can adapt to different working environments and project requirements.
| Item&Unit | HS 900 | HS 460 |
| Single Cast Segment Weight (t) | 900 | 460 |
| Segment Length (m) | 32.6 / 24.6 | 29.94 / 24.96 |
| Total Machine Weight (t) | 450 | 310 |
| Longitudinal Travel Speed (m/min) | 0.5 | 0.5 |
| Total Power (kW) | 50 | 46.5 |
| Max Support Reaction Force During Operation (kN) | 5805 | 3333 |
| Overall Dimensions (L×W×H) (m) | 62.5 × 20.6 × 5.6 | 58.5 × 13.8 × 5 |
| Average Construction Speed (days/span) | 12 | 12 |
| Minimum Curve Radius (m) | R > 2000 | R > 2000 |
| Longitudinal / Transverse Slope Adaptability (%) | 2% / 2% | 2% / 2% |
HS 1600t Mobile Formwork System
A beam launcher, also known as a girder transporter or erection gantry, is a specialized heavy-duty machine used in bridge construction. It is designed to lift and place precast concrete beams or steel box girders onto piers or abutments. This equipment is widely used in highway and railway bridge projects, providing an efficient and safe method for erecting bridge girders.
A beam launcher typically consists of a main beam, front and rear legs, auxiliary supports, a hoist trolley, a hydraulic system, and an electrical system. The main beam is usually made of high-strength steel with a truss structure, providing excellent load-bearing capacity and wind resistance.
1.High Efficiency: The beam launcher can quickly transport and erect beams, reducing the time and labor required for bridge construction tasks.
2.Safe and Reliable: Equipped with a variety of safety protection devices, including emergency stop, overload protection, stroke and lifting limit switches, under-voltage/phase loss protection, and overcurrent protection, ensuring safe and reliable operation.
3.Versatile: Capable of erecting straight, curved, and longitudinal spans, as well as variable-span twin-line precast prestressed concrete box girders. It can also adapt to bridges with different slopes and angles.
4.Easy Operation and Maintenance: The beam launcher features a simple structure and convenient operation. It is easy to disassemble and transport, facilitating maintenance and repair.
| Item | HS 50/200 | HS 40/160 | HS 40/160 | HS 35/100 | HS 30/100 |
| Lifting capacity | 200t | 160t | 120t | 100t | 100t |
| applicable span | ≤55m | ≤50m | ≤40m | ≤35m | ≤30m |
| applicable skew bridge angle | 0 – 450 | 0 – 450 | 0 – 450 | 0 – 450 | 0 – 450 |
| trolley lifting speed | 0.8m/min | 0.8m/min | 0.8m/min | 1.27m/min | 0.8m/min |
| rolley longitudinal moving speed | 4.25m/min | 4.25m/min | 4.25m/min | 4.25m/min | 4.25m/min |
| cart longitudinal moving speed | 4.25m/min | 4.25m/min | 4.25m/min | 4.25m/min | 4.25m/min |
| cart transverse moving speed | 2.45m/min | 2.45m/min | 2.45m/min | 2.45m/min | 2.45m/min |
| transportation capacity of bridge transport vehicle | 100t X2 | 80t X2 | 60t X2 | 50t X2 | 50t X2 |
| heavy load speed of bridge transport vehicle | 8.5m/min | 8.5m/min | 8.5m/min | 8.5m/min | 8.5m/min |
| bridge transport vehicle return speed | 17m/min | 17m/min | 17m/min | 17m/min | 17m/min |
HS Customized Beam Launcher for Indonesian Skewed Bridge Project
All types of launching gantries mentioned above can be customized to meet specific requirements based on the working environment and other special project needs.
After understanding the differences between various types of launching gantries, the next step is to determine which gantry best suits your needs. We have compiled a set of key considerations for selecting a gantry, designed to help you efficiently choose the most suitable equipment for your project.
1.Load Capacity and Span Requirements
Ensure the equipment meets the maximum beam weight and bridge span requirements.
2.Site Conditions
Assess whether the construction site has sufficient space for assembly and gantry movement.
3.Safety Standards and Certification
Choose equipment that complies with international standards such as ISO 9001, CE, and EN 15011.
4.Customization Options
Consider features such as anti-sway systems, remote monitoring, and modular structures for easy relocation.
5.After-Sales and Technical Support
Prefer manufacturers that provide installation and commissioning, operator training, and 24/7 technical service.
| Parameter Category | Key Indicator | Selection Reference Scenario |
| Lifting Capacity | Maximum Lifting Load (50t – 1500t) | For medium to small spans (≤20m), select 100t class; for high-speed rail 32m box girders, select 900t class |
| Span Adaptability | Maximum Erection Span (16m – 60m) | Highway bridges commonly use 30–40m; railway bridges often 32m or 40m |
| Traveling Type | Rail-Wheel / Walking Type | Rail-wheel type is suitable for flat ground and long-distance movement; walking type adapts to complex terrain |
| Self-Weight & Wheel Load | Total Machine Weight (500t – 2000t), Maximum Wheel Load | Low wheel load models (≤150 kN/wheel) are required for soft foundation roads |
| Erection Speed | Average Daily Beam Placement (2 – 5 beams/day) | High-speed rail projects require ≥3 beams/day, necessitating a high-efficiency hydraulic system |
The launching gantry is in operation / transporting beams.
Selecting the right launching gantry is key to ensuring safety and efficiency in bridge construction. With over 20 years of experience in design and manufacturing, HSCRANE provides launching gantries that meet ISO, CE, and SGS international standards and can be customized to meet your specific requirements. Our equipment is widely used in highway, railway, and urban elevated bridge projects.
We have more than 100 professional engineers, offering one-stop services from project design and on-site installation to global after-sales support. Our goal is to help you shorten construction schedules, reduce costs, and enhance safety.
Whether your project requires high-capacity lifting, long spans, or solutions for special working conditions, HSCRANE can provide a tailored beam erection solution to ensure your project is safe, efficient, and delivered on time. Contact us today to obtain a customized launching gantry solution!
