FAQ

A: Major types of port cranes include portal cranes, port fixed cranes, tyre-mounted cranes, floating cranes, bridge-type grab ship unloaders, and gantry cranes. Selection depends on several factors: terminal type (coastal vs. inland river), cargo type (bulk, break-bulk, or container), throughput volume, water depth at the berth, and power supply conditions. It is recommended to provide a terminal layout plan and operational requirements so that a professional manufacturer can propose a suitable solution.

A: Portal cranes are suitable for loading and unloading bulk cargo and general cargo at coastal and inland river port terminals. Key features include rail-mounted mobility, 360-degree full rotation, and luffing capability under load. Common specifications range from 10t to 150t in capacity and 25m to 45m in working radius. Wuxi Hugang Technology offers a complete series of portal cranes ranging from MQ10t-25m to MQ150t-45m.

A: Mobile cranes (such as rubber-tired models) offer high mobility and flexibility; they do not require rails, making them suitable for temporary work sites or rotation across multiple terminals.
Fixed cranes feature simple structures, lower costs, and easier maintenance, making them ideal for terminals with dedicated loading and unloading points.
Recommendation: Choose a fixed crane if you have high annual throughput and fixed work locations; opt for a mobile crane if work locations vary or if you are in the initial stage with a limited budget.

A: Grab cranes require the addition of a grab opening/closing mechanism to the standard crane configuration (typically utilizing a dual-rope system with supporting ropes and opening/closing ropes), as well as a hoisting mechanism with a high power reserve. The electrical control system must coordinate four specific actions: lowering, closing, hoisting, and opening the grab. The grab itself must be selected with a bucket capacity and deadweight appropriate for the material density (e.g., coal, ore, grain).

A: Floating cranes (also known as crane barges or crane vessels) are mounted on pontoons or barges and are used for lifting operations on the water. Key applications include ship-to-ship cargo transfer in ports, lifting large components for bridge construction, offshore wind turbine installation, and ship repair. Floating cranes from Wuxi Hugang Technology have obtained certification from the China Classification Society (CCS).

A: A ship unloader (such as a bridge-type grab ship unloader) is specialized equipment for unloading bulk cargo; it offers high efficiency (capable of exceeding 800 t/h) but has a limited function, as it can only unload vessels and cannot perform loading operations. A portal crane is general-purpose equipment capable of handling both bulk cargo and break-bulk/general cargo, offering greater operational flexibility. Large-scale bulk cargo users, such as power plants and steel mills, typically choose ship unloaders, whereas multi-purpose terminals often opt for portal cranes.

A: Yes. The DLQ series electric rubber-tired cranes (5–40 tons) are widely used at small inland river terminals, temporary work sites, and for soil removal during subway construction. Their advantages include eliminating the need for rail installation, immediate readiness for use, and self-propelled mobility. However, their lifting capacity and operating radius are generally smaller than those of rail-mounted equipment.

A: The following information is required:

● Terminal layout and cross-sectional drawings

● Design high/low water levels

● Types of cargo to be handled and their densities

● Annual throughput / peak hourly handling volume

● Power supply specifications (voltage, frequency)

● Explosion-proof requirements (if applicable)

● Environmental parameters such as local wind speed and seismic intensity.

Wuxi Hugang Technology offers free consultation services for equipment selection.

A: Yes. Wuxi Hugang Technology has successfully delivered a 1,000t × 186m ultra-large shipbuilding portal crane to Jiangsu Yangzijiang-Mitsui Shipbuilding; we possess the capability to design and manufacture cranes of this class and even higher tonnages.

A: Explosion-proof cranes are used in operating environments-such as petrochemical facilities, oil storage terminals, and specialized logistics sites-where flammable or explosive gases or dust are present. The explosion-proof cranes independently developed by Wuxi Hugang Technology have received multiple awards from Jiangsu Province and Wuxi City, establishing them as benchmark products in this market segment.

A: Yes. The GQ series stationary, dual-purpose (grab/hook) crane with luffing-under-load capability is designed for this exact purpose. It features a single-boom structure, wire-rope luffing, and a compound pulley compensation mechanism. It supports luffing under load across its full operating range and offers 360° continuous slewing, allowing a single piece of equipment to handle both bulk cargo (via grab) and break-bulk/general cargo (via hook).

A: We recommend MQ16t-30m or MQ25t-30m portal cranes, or stationary slewing cranes. Inland terminals often have limited water depth and smaller berths; small-to-medium tonnage equipment is sufficient to meet operational needs and offers a shorter return-on-investment period.

A: "Wharf crane" is a general term encompassing various types, including portal cranes and stationary cranes. The portal crane is the most widely used type of wharf crane; it features a portal frame structure, a slewing platform, and a boom system, and it travels along rails.

A: It is a suitable option for scenarios involving limited budgets, short project cycles (3–5 years), and no strict requirements regarding the equipment's manufacturing year. Key areas requiring inspection include the extent of steel structure corrosion, wear on the slewing bearing, the operating condition of the hoisting and luffing mechanisms, and the aging status of the electrical system. Wuxi Hugang Technology offers professional inspection and assessment, refurbishment and modification, and resale services for used portal cranes.

A: In recent years, the technology behind domestically produced port cranes has improved substantially. Leading domestic manufacturers offer products in standard tonnage ranges (under 100t) that rival imported equipment in performance while holding distinct advantages in price, delivery times, and after-sales service. However, the market for ultra-large-scale equipment (such as the 2,000-ton class and above) remains dominated by companies like ZPMC.

A: "MQ" stands for portal crane; "25t" indicates the rated lifting capacity (25 tonnes); and "30m" denotes the maximum working radius (the distance from the hook to the slewing center). Wuxi Hugang Technology has sold a total of 18 units of the MQ25t-30m portal crane, making it a mature, best-selling product.

A: In the industry, the efficiency of bridge-type grab ship unloaders ranges from 400 t/h to 2,500 t/h. The XC-type 800 t/h bridge-type grab ship unloader supplied by Wuxi Hugang Technology to Guodian Tongling Power Plant demonstrates stable actual operating efficiency and is suitable for coal unloading operations from 50,000 to 100,000 DWT bulk carriers.

A: According to the GB/T 3811 standard, crane duty classes range from A1 to A8. Port cranes typically fall into the A6 or A7 class (heavy-duty or extra-heavy-duty), depending on daily operating hours and load conditions. Portal cranes at terminals are generally rated A7, while ship unloaders at power plants are typically A6 or A7.

A: Wuxi Hugang Technology's electrical systems come standard with components from top-tier international brands such as Schneider and Siemens; however, domestic brands (e.g., Inovance, INVT) can also be selected based on customer requirements. Imported brands offer superior stability and globally available spare parts, while domestic brands provide excellent cost-performance ratios and shorter lead times.

A: Luffing under load refers to the crane's ability to change the boom's operating radius (i.e., the distance of the hook from the crane) while suspending the rated load. Standard luffing operations can only be performed when the crane is unloaded. Luffing under load requires the luffing mechanism to have sufficient drive power and the boom system to incorporate a special compensation design that ensures the load moves horizontally during the luffing process.

A: The four-link jib system (comprising the jib head, main jib, main tie rod, and auxiliary tie rod) achieves horizontal load movement through geometric compensation. This design offers low luffing resistance, low energy consumption, and minimal load sway. It is the primary portal crane structural configuration recommended by Wuxi Hugang Technology.

A: Common rail gauges for portal cranes are 6m, 8m, 10.5m, and 12m, depending on the equipment tonnage and terminal design. Small portal cranes (≤25t) typically use a 6–8m gauge, while large portal cranes (≥40t) use a gauge of 10.5m or greater. Wuxi Hugang Technology can customize the gauge to match the customer's actual terminal specifications.

A: Q355B (formerly Q345B) low-alloy, high-strength structural steel is used for main structural components, while Q460 steel is used for critical load-bearing areas. Wuxi Hugang Technology consistently sources raw materials from reputable brands such as MaSteel and WISCO, and conducts batch-by-batch inspections upon arrival at the factory.

A: Yes, this is available. The equipment can be optionally equipped with a PLC remote monitoring module to enable functions such as real-time operational parameter data collection, remote fault diagnosis, and automatic workload statistics; it supports connectivity via 4G, Wi-Fi, or wired networks.

A: The choice between domestic brands (such as Luoyang LYC or Xuzhou Rothe Erde) and imported brands (such as Rothe Erde) depends on the crane's tonnage and operating conditions. Small portal cranes typically utilize single-row four-point contact ball bearings, while large ones use three-row roller bearings. Wuxi Hugang Technology recommends the appropriate slewing bearing solution based on the equipment's design service life and the customer's budget.

A: The price depends on tonnage, working radius, and configuration. Rough reference ranges: MQ16t-30m is approximately 0.8–1.2 million RMB; MQ25t-30m is approximately 1.3–1.8 million RMB; MQ40t-35m is approximately 2.0–3.0 million RMB. These are ex-factory prices for the crane unit itself, excluding transportation, installation, and rail foundation costs. Please contact 13806186885 for a specific quote and proposal.

A: The price of a used portal crane is generally 30%–60% of that of a new unit, depending on its age, condition, and whether it has been refurbished. The market price for a used MQ25t-30m portal crane (5–8 years old) typically ranges from 400,000 to 800,000 RMB. We recommend having a professional agency inspect and evaluate the equipment before purchase.

A: The lead time for standard models is approximately 3–5 months, while non-standard custom units or large-scale equipment take about 6–10 months. Factors affecting delivery include raw material procurement cycles, the progress of outsourced casting and forging, the time required for customer drawing approval, and on-site installation conditions.

A: This can be negotiated. Standard payment terms are: 30% upon contract signing, 60% before shipment, and 10% after acceptance. Specific terms are subject to the contract agreement.

A: Quotes are typically based on ex-works pricing (excluding shipping). Shipping costs depend on equipment dimensions, weight, distance, and the mode of transport (road or sea). Large components may require permits for oversized cargo transport; Wuxi Hugang Technology can assist with this process.

A: Generally, the equipment quote does not include installation costs. Installation fees are calculated separately based on site conditions and include items such as installation labor, crane rental, weld flaw detection, and commissioning tests. Wuxi Hugang Technology can provide either installation guidance or comprehensive installation services.

A: The standard warranty for the entire unit is 12 months after acceptance or 18 months after shipment, whichever comes first. Warranties for core components (such as gearboxes and motors) are subject to the respective suppliers' terms. Repairs for non-human-induced faults are free during the warranty period. Paid lifetime service is available after the warranty expires.

A: The price difference is substantial. A used stationary port crane that has been in service for over 10 years might cost only 20%–30% of a new unit. However, additional budget must be allocated for refurbishment and upgrades (such as structural steel repairs, electrical system upgrades, and anti-corrosion painting). Wuxi Hugang Technology offers a one-stop service for the acquisition and refurbishment of used equipment.

A: Daily inspection items:

● Wire rope wear/broken strands

● Brake clearance and wear

● Functionality of limit switches

● Tightness of slewing bearing bolts

● Cleaning of electrical cabinets and wiring checks

● Lubrication of lubrication points (hoisting, luffing, slewing, and traveling mechanisms).

It is recommended to establish a system for daily, weekly, monthly, and annual inspections.

A: It is generally recommended to perform an intermediate or major overhaul every 5–8 years, depending on usage frequency and the operating environment. In coastal areas with salt-spray exposure, this interval may be shortened to 3–5 years. Major overhauls typically include: inspection and repair of the steel structure, replacement of major bearings and wire ropes, electrical system upgrades, and repainting of the entire unit.

A: According to the 《Law on Special Equipment Safety》, crane operators must hold a 《Special Equipment Operator Certificate》 (Category Code Q2: Crane Operator) issued by the Market Supervision Administration. The equipment itself must obtain a 《Special Equipment Use Registration Certificate》 and undergo regular inspections.

A: ● Steel structure surfaces require Sa2.5 grade abrasive blasting for rust removal.

● Use a heavy-duty marine anti-corrosion coating system: epoxy zinc-rich primer & epoxy micaceous iron oxide intermediate coat & polyurethane topcoat.

● Electrical cabinets should be made of stainless steel and feature enhanced sealing.

● Exposed fasteners (such as bolts) should be stainless steel or treated with Dacromet.

● Regularly wash off salt deposits with fresh water.

A: Common causes:

● Gear wear or insufficient lubricant in the gearbox

● Uneven wear of brake friction pads

● Irregular winding of the wire rope on the drum

● Aging of the coupling's elastic element

● Lack of lubrication or damage to the motor bearings.

It is recommended to shut down the equipment and check each item individually; do not operate the crane while it has a fault.

A: Replacement depends on wear and the number of broken wires, rather than a fixed timeframe. Replacement is mandatory if: the number of broken wires within a single lay length reaches 10% of the total wires; the diameter decreases by more than 7% of the nominal diameter; or severe corrosion or deformation occurs. Under normal operating conditions, replacement is typically required every 3–5 years.

A: Portal cranes and bridge-type grab ship unloaders are typically equipped with manual brake release mechanisms. In the event of a power failure, the brake can be released using a manual hydraulic pump or a mechanical wrench, allowing the load to be lowered slowly to the ground. Do not attempt forced operation during an emergency.

A: Common causes of rail binding (friction between the wheel flange and the side of the rail) include:

● Deviations in the wheel assembly span or diagonal measurements

● Rail installation errors

● Deformation of the bridge structure.

For minor binding, the wheel assemblies can be adjusted; severe cases require realigning the bridge structure or the rails. Regular measurement of rail installation precision is recommended.

A: Our after-sales network covers major port cities across the country, with key service areas including East China (Jiangsu, Zhejiang, Shanghai), South China (Guangdong, Fujian), Central China (Hubei, Anhui, Jiangxi), and Southwest China (Sichuan, Chongqing). For overseas projects, we can dispatch on-site engineers.

A: Key inspection points:

● Steel structure (portal frame, turntable, boom): Check for deformation, cracking, or severe corrosion.

● Slewing bearing clearance: Check if it exceeds permissible limits.

● Hoisting/luffing gear reducer: Listen to the operating sound.

● Electrical cabinets: Check for signs of aging or burn marks.

● Wire ropes/pulleys: Check for wear.

● Documentation: Check for original factory documents and past annual inspection reports.

Recommendation: Engage a professional third-party inspection service.

A: Yes. Common modifications include:

● Variable-frequency drive (VFD) upgrade for the hoisting mechanism.

● Addition of a PLC-based electrical control system.

● Replacement of the grab bucket or spreader.

● Lengthening or shortening of the boom.

● Addition of explosion-proof or anti-corrosion features.

Wuxi Hugang Technology offers end-to-end services covering equipment assessment, modification/refurbishment, and recertification.

A: Yes, we do. Wuxi Hugang Technology provides services for the buyback, appraisal, refurbishment, and resale of used port cranes. If you have idle equipment or units due for replacement, please contact 18912366659 to obtain a buyback quote.

A: ● Verify the equipment's origin (check for any ownership disputes).

● Inspect the Special Equipment Usage Registration Certificate and the most recent inspection report.

● Confirm that the equipment is still within its valid inspection period.

● Transfer of ownership requires updating the usage registration with the local Market Supervision Administration.

Wuxi Hugang Technology can assist with the entire transfer process.

A: "Dock crane" is a general term encompassing both stationary dock cranes and portal-style dock cranes. Used portal cranes are large, structurally complex, and require rail tracks for operation; used dock cranes (stationary type) usually refer to slewing cranes fixed to concrete foundations-they have relatively simple structures and lower prices.

A: Wuxi Hugang Technology provides a one-stop service from on-site dismantling and logistics transportation to installation and commissioning at the new site. Large components require transportation by a professional heavy-duty transport company (may involve oversized vehicle permits), and installation requires a professional hoisting team and auxiliary equipment such as A-frame booms.

A: The cost depends on the scope of the retrofit and the current condition of the equipment. A rough estimate: Electrical upgrades alone cost approximately 150,000-300,000 RMB; a complete refurbishment (including steel structure repair, electrical upgrades, and repainting) costs approximately 40%-60% of the equipment's residual value. It is recommended to conduct an inspection and assessment first before providing a retrofit plan and quote.

A: Let's compare them using a 5-year usage cycle as an example:

The used solution can save approximately 20%-30%, but maintenance costs are higher and the remaining equipment lifespan is shorter. It is suitable for short-term projects or scenarios with limited budgets.