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What Is a Straddle Carrier Used For?

DATE : Jun 12th, 2025

In modern logistics and construction industries, straddle carriers play an increasingly important role as versatile lifting equipment. They are widely used in various scenarios, including precast concrete production, road and bridge construction, and port operations. This article will delve into the basic functions, primary application areas, and advantages of straddle carriers.

Basic Functions of Straddle Carriers

Definition and Construction

A straddle carrier is a tire-mounted crane specifically designed for lifting and transporting heavy loads. Its primary components include the main beam, support legs, lifting system, and travel system. The main beam provides structural support, while the support legs ensure the stability of the equipment. The lifting system is responsible for lifting the load off the ground, and the travel system allows the equipment to move between different sites.

Main Application Areas of Straddle Carrier

Precast Concrete Production

In precast concrete production, straddle carriers are commonly used for lifting and transporting precast concrete beams. They can not only easily transport concrete beams from the production site to the designated location but also directly load and unload concrete beams onto transport vehicles during the production process. This highly efficient transportation method significantly improves the operational efficiency of the production line and reduces labor costs.

straddle carrier for Precast Concrete Production

Straddle Carrier for Precast Concrete Production-Huadelift

Road and Bridge Construction

In road and bridge construction, straddle carriers also play a critical role. They can lift precast bridge segments and perform precise alignment and installation at the construction site. For double-span bridge construction, straddle cranes can use two trolleys simultaneously, greatly improving operational efficiency. In single-span bridge construction, a single crane equipped with a three-dimensional adjustable rotating lifting device enables more flexible operations.

Tunnel Construction

In tunnel construction, straddle carriers can handle the lifting and transportation of large components. Their high load capacity and flexible operation ensure efficient work even in narrow tunnels. This makes straddle cranes an ideal choice for tunnel construction, capable of handling complex construction conditions.

Port Operations

In port operations, straddle carriers are widely used for container handling. Their exceptional mobility and high efficiency enable them to quickly complete loading and unloading tasks, reducing container dwell time at the port. Especially in busy ports, the straddle lift crane’s rapid transshipment capability ensures smooth logistics.

straddle carrier used in port container

straddle carrier used in port container

General Manufacturing

In general manufacturing, straddle carriers also play a crucial role. They efficiently lift and transport heavy equipment and materials, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of production lines. By reducing manual intervention, straddle carrier cranes lower labor costs and improve workplace safety.

Wind Power Projects

In wind power projects, straddle carriers are used to transport and install large wind turbine blades and towers. These heavy and extra-long components require precise handling and transportation, and straddle lift cranes, with their exceptional load capacity and flexible operability, provide significant convenience at construction sites.

Straddle Carrier used in wind power

Straddle Carrier used in wind power

Advantages of Straddle Carriers

Mobility and Flexibility

The rubber tire design of straddle carriers allows them to move easily across various terrains. This flexibility eliminates the need for fixed tracks, enabling the equipment to operate freely in confined spaces.

High Load Capacity

Industrial-grade straddle carriers typically handle loads ranging from 50 to 800 tons, adapting to various loading and cargo handling tasks. This high load capacity makes them particularly important in the transportation of heavy equipment.

Safety

Straddle carriers are equipped with multiple safety features, including load monitoring and automated systems. These safety systems effectively reduce risks during heavy-load lifting and transportation, enhancing operational safety.

Production Efficiency

Thanks to rapid loading, unloading, and transportation times, straddle carriers significantly improve production efficiency. The equipment’s design enables faster load transfer, reducing operational time and enhancing overall production capacity.

Customized Solutions of Straddle Carrier

Load Capacity Customization

Straddle carriers can be customized to provide different load capacities based on customer requirements. From small-sized equipment suitable for light loads to heavy-duty equipment capable of lifting large concrete beams, customers can select the appropriate model according to their specific needs.

Span and Lifting Height Customization

Customized span and lifting height allow straddle carriers to handle concrete beams or construction materials of various sizes. This flexible configuration ensures the equipment meets specific operational requirements.

Customized Drive Systems

Different operational requirements dictate the drive system of a straddle carrier. For heavy-duty applications, hydraulic motors and wheel reducers are typically used, while electric drive systems are more efficient for light-duty applications.

Customized Tire Configurations

Tire configurations for straddle carriers can be customized based on environmental conditions. Whether standard tires or heavy-duty tires suitable for harsh terrain, the appropriate tire configuration is selected based on the specific task.

Customized Safety Features

To ensure safe operation in high-risk environments, straddle carriers can also be customized with advanced safety features. Examples include anti-sway systems, overload protection, and emergency stop functions.

How to Select the Right Straddle Carrier?

Assess Load Capacity

When selecting the appropriate straddle carrier, the first step is to determine the required maximum load capacity. This includes the weight of precast concrete beams and potential overload scenarios.

Determine Lifting Height

Lifting height is a critical consideration when selecting equipment, especially when loading or unloading materials from elevated positions.

Span and Clearance

The span must be designed to cover the width of the work area. In confined spaces, the clearance height and width of the equipment become particularly important.

Ground Condition Assessment

Evaluate the ground conditions in the operational area, including slope, surface hardness, and load-bearing capacity, to ensure the straddle carrier crane can operate safely and stably.

Other Special Requirements

Consider any specific requirements, such as adjustable span or variable lifting height, to ensure the equipment’s flexibility and adaptability.

Conclusion

In summary, the straddle carrier, as an efficient and flexible lifting device, plays an indispensable role in modern logistics and construction industries. Whether in precast concrete production, road and bridge construction, port operations, or manufacturing, they significantly enhance work efficiency and safety.

As a high-load, high-efficiency lifting device, the advantage of the straddle lift crane lies in its ability to adapt to various application scenarios. With the continuous advancement of technology, future mobile straddle carriers will become more intelligent and efficient.

If you wish to learn more about customized solutions for straddle carriers, please feel free to contact us. Huadelift will provide you with professional advice and services.