Crane rails are the rails used for overhead cranes, gantry cranes, port cranes, shipyard cranes, mining cranes, and other material-handling equipment. They see heavy vertical loads plus strong horizontal and side forces-something trains simply don't generate.
What are the characteristics of crane rails?
Crane rails play a key role in crane structures, providing the necessary support and guidance for moving parts of the crane, such as overhead cranes and hoists. An important aspect of these rails is their strength and ability to withstand heavy loads and extreme conditions, which is crucial in heavy industry and construction.
The production of crane rails involves several steps, starting with the selection of a suitable material, which is usually high-strength steel. The process involves hot rolling, which ensures uniformity of the metal's structure and optimal mechanical properties. The final step is often heat treatment, increasing compressive strength and wear resistance, which is essential in high-stress environments. The rails are cut to the desired lengths and beveled if necessary.
Key Components of a Crane Rail System
- Crane Rails: The primary component that supports the crane's wheels. It is selected based on strength, wear resistance, and operational requirements.
- Rail Clips(often with rubber nose): These secure the rail in place while allowing for some flexibility during operation.
- Rail Pads: Soft mounting systems made from elastomeric materials that help distribute loads and reduce wear between the rail and its support structure.
- Steel Sole Plate: Provide additional support and stability for the rail.
- Anchor Bolts: Secure the support base plates to the foundation.
- Grout: Used to fill gaps and provide stability beneath the bearing plates.
Common crane rail standards
- DIN 536 profiles: A45, A55, A65, A75, A100, A120, A150
- Chinese QU rails: QU70, QU80, QU100, QU120
| Crane Rail Type | Standard | Size | Material | Standard Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QU Series | Chinese YB/T 5055-2014 |
QU70, QU80, QU100, QU120 |
U71Mn, U75V | 12m |
| A Series | German DIN536 |
A45, A55, A65, A75, A100, A120, A150 |
50Mn,U71Mn | 10/12/15m |
| ASCE Series | American ASTM, AREMA |
ASCE25, ASCE40, ASCE60, ASCE75, ASCE85, ASCE90, ASCE115, ASCE136 |
700/900A/1100 | 6-12m, 12-25m |
| UIC Series | International Union of Railways UIC860-0, EN-13674-1 |
UIC50, UIC54, UIC60 | 900A/1100 | 12-25m |
| BS Series | British BS11-1985 |
BS50'O',BS60A,BS60R, BS75A,BS75R,BS80A, BS100A,BS113A |
700/900A | 8-25m |
| JIS Series | Japanese JIS E1103/1101 |
15kg, 22kg, 30A, 37A, 50N, CR73, CR100 |
According to JIS | 9-10m |
| AS Series | Australian AS 1085 |
31kg, 41kg, 47kg, 50kg, 53kg, 60kg, 66kg, 68kg, 73kg, 86kg, 89kg |
900A/1100 | 8-25m |
| ISCOR Series | South African ISCOR |
15kg, 22kg, 30kg, 40kg, 48kg, 57kg |
700/900A | 9-25m |
