Using Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes for Steel Coil Storage Yards

In the modern steel industry, efficient handling and storage of heavy, high-value materials such as steel coils is essential for maintaining productivity and safety. One solution that is becoming increasingly popular in steel coil storage yards is the Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) crane. Originally developed for container handling at ports, RTG cranes have proven to be equally effective in industrial storage yards due to their high mobility, versatility, and lifting capacity.

This article explores how rubber tyred gantry cranes are used in steel coil storage yards, highlighting their benefits, operational advantages, design considerations, and how they contribute to the overall efficiency and safety of coil handling operations.

What Are Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes?

A Rubber Tyred Gantry (RTG) crane is a type of mobile gantry crane mounted on rubber tires instead of fixed rails. This design allows the crane to move freely across a storage yard or industrial facility, making it highly flexible and adaptable to various working environments.

RTG cranes typically feature:

• A U-shaped or portal frame supported by rubber tires

• An overhead trolley with a hoisting mechanism

• Multiple steering and drive modes

• Diesel-powered, electric, or hybrid drive systems

• A control system for ground operation or remote control

While traditionally used in container terminals, RTG cranes are now engineered to meet the unique demands of steel coil handling.

Why Use RTG Cranes for Steel Coil Yards?

Steel coils are large, heavy, and sensitive to damage from improper handling. They require specialized equipment to lift, move, and store them safely and efficiently. RTG cranes provide the perfect solution with the following benefits:

1. High Lifting Capacity

Steel coils can weigh several tons each. RTG cranes are available in capacities ranging from 10 tons to over 100 tons, making them capable of lifting even the heaviest coils with ease.

2. Mobility and Flexibility

Unlike rail-mounted gantry cranes, RTG cranes do not require a fixed track. They can move between different rows of coil storage, providing access to multiple stacking locations without needing additional infrastructure. This is especially valuable in open storage yards where layouts may change based on inventory.

3. Efficient Land Utilization

With their ability to straddle multiple rows of stored coils, RTG cranes enable tight stacking and vertical storage, thereby maximizing the use of limited yard space. This is critical in steel manufacturing facilities or logistics yards where space is at a premium.

4. Reduced Infrastructure Costs

Because they do not need rails or overhead structures, RTG cranes can be deployed without extensive civil engineering work. This lowers setup costs and makes them ideal for both permanent and temporary storage facilities.

5. Damage-Free Handling

With custom coil lifting devices such as C-hooks, coil tongs, or vacuum lifters integrated into the hoist, RTG cranes can handle coils without damaging their surface or edges, ensuring product integrity.

Design Features for Steel Coil Handling

When configuring a rubber tyred gantry crane for a steel coil yard, certain design features are essential to ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity:

A. Specialized Lifting Attachments

Instead of a typical spreader beam, RTG cranes for coil handling are equipped with lifting devices such as:

• C-hooks that cradle the coil from the inner diameter

• Electromagnetic lifters for hot or ferrous coils

• Mechanical or hydraulic coil tongs

These devices are often interchangeable to allow handling of different coil types and sizes.

B. Robust Structure and Components

Steel coils place heavy demands on lifting equipment. The mobile gantry crane for sale must be built with:

• High-strength structural steel

• Reinforced beams and end carriages

• Heavy-duty wheel systems to support weight on uneven outdoor surfaces

C. Advanced Control and Anti-Sway Systems

To ensure precision handling, especially when stacking or retrieving coils, many RTG cranes are equipped with:

• Anti-sway systems for smooth operation

• Remote or cab controls with real-time monitoring

• Load moment indicators for overload protection

D. All-Weather Operation

Since steel coil yards are often outdoors, RTG cranes must operate reliably in all weather. Key features include:

• Weatherproof cabins and enclosures

• Corrosion-resistant coatings

• Tire systems designed for gravel, asphalt, or concrete surfaces

Applications in Steel Coil Storage Yards

RTG cranes are used in various steel industry operations, including:

1. Steel Manufacturing Plants

After production, steel coils are stored in large open yards. RTG cranes move coils from production lines to storage and later to trucks or rail cars for shipment.

2. Steel Service Centers

Service centers that handle cutting, slitting, and distribution of coils use RTG cranes to move coils between processing equipment and storage areas.

3. Port Terminals Handling Steel Products

Ports that import or export steel coils benefit from mobile RTG cranes that unload coils from ships and transfer them to interim storage or transport vehicles.

4. Rail Yards and Intermodal Terminals

RTG cranes lift steel coils between train cars and storage areas, facilitating efficient intermodal transport and logistics.

Case Example: Deploying a 50-Ton RTG for a Steel Plant

A steel plant in Southeast Asia recently implemented a rubber tyred 50 ton gantry crane for managing its steel coil storage yard. The crane featured:

• A span of 12 meters, sufficient to straddle two rows of coils and an access lane

• A coil lifting tong customized for 2–2.5m diameter coils

• Hybrid drive system (diesel-electric) for fuel efficiency

• Tire steering system allowing 90-degree cross travel

The result was a 30% increase in yard space utilization and significant reduction in forklift usage, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

Rubber tyred gantry cranes are transforming how steel coils are handled and stored in industrial yards. With their high capacity, flexibility, and low infrastructure requirements, they offer a cost-effective and efficient alternative to fixed gantry or overhead crane systems. When properly designed and equipped with specialized coil lifting devices, RTG cranes enhance safety, minimize product damage, and optimize land use in steel storage operations.

As the steel industry continues to modernize and expand globally, adopting mobile and versatile handling solutions like RTG cranes will be key to maintaining competitiveness and meeting growing demands for efficient logistics.