hero-structure-support

Freestanding Structures for Overhead Cranes

Don't have the runway tracks or structure in your building to accommodate overhead cranes? We can definitely help.

Vector (9)
Products
Crane structures

The various structural solutions
to support overhead cranes

Does your building or garage have no runways or structure suitable for an overhead crane? Don't worry, we're familiar with these situations. Although many existing buildings are not designed to accommodate this type of equipment, don't let that stop your project. At Premium Industrial Group, we design and install custom structures to accommodate overhead cranes. Explore the advantages and disadvantages of each option now, so you can choose the one that suits you best.

Self-supporting structure on concrete slab
Self-supporting structure on concrete foundation
Semi-self-supporting structure
Corbels on building columns
Track suspended from the ceiling
Frame 20
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Frame 767
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Hoists

The hoist is the central element of a hoisting system. It is essential to take into account the operating cycle, the environment and the budget when selecting the right hoist. Our specialists are at your disposal to help you make the right choice.

See our hoists
Exo Granit 1
image (5)-1

1. Self-supporting structure on concrete slab

1.

Self-supporting structure on concrete slab

Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Fixed to a concrete slab 1 with chemical adhesive and anchoring rods. This concept is also known as a self-supporting overhead crane.
Who?
Vector (11)
Advantages
Common solution requiring little engineering, which limits surprises. Suitable for industrial buildings, which can accommodate structures of up to 10t.
Who?
Vector (11)
Disadvantages
The plates at the base of the columns must be larger to support the loads generated by the overhead crane.
SUITABLE TYPE OF CRANE Top running
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image (7)

Hoists

The hoist is the central element of a hoisting system. It is essential to take into account the operating cycle, the environment and the budget when selecting the right hoist. Our specialists are at your disposal to help you make the right choice.

See our hoists
92873D763
image 9 (1)

2. Self-supporting structure on concrete foundation

2.

Self-supporting structure on concrete foundation

Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Fixed to a concrete foundation with long anchor rods. These must be installed before the concrete is poured.
Who?
Vector (11)
Advantages
High lifting capacity (15t+). Although this solution is suitable for outdoor structures, it can also be used for indoor projects.
Who?
Vector (11)
Disadvantages
Requires soil testing, foundation engineering, excavation and compaction. Foundation and structural work must be carried out under the Construction Decree (CCQ).
Suitable crane type: Top running
image (7)

Hoists

The hoist is the central element of a hoisting system. It is essential to take into account the operating cycle, the environment and the budget when selecting the right hoist. Our specialists are at your disposal to help you make the right choice.

See our hoists
Pro-hydraulic PR17-17324
image (51)

3. Semi-self-supporting structure

3.

Semi-self-supporting structure

Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Columns attached to the building, enabling it to support part of the load generated by the overhead crane.
Who?
Vector (11)
Advantages
Reduced footing on the ground and improved hook-to-wall approach.
Who?
Vector (11)
Disadvantages
An engineer must check whether the building structure can support the load generated by the crane. The overall cost of the project is difficult to estimate before receiving the engineering report. Installation of the structure, and reinforcement of the building itself if necessary, must be carried out under the Construction Decree (CCQ).
Suitable crane type: Top running
image (7)

Hoists

The hoist is the central element of a hoisting system. It is essential to take into account the operating cycle, the environment and the budget when selecting the right hoist. Our specialists are at your disposal to help you make the right choice.

See our hoists
Robover-2 PR14-10473
image (53)

4. Corbels on building columns

4.

Corbels on building columns

Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Corbels fixed to the building's columns.
Who?
Vector (11)
Advantages
No columns on the floor.
Who?
Vector (11)
Disadvantages
An engineer must check whether the building structure can support the load generated by the crane. The overall cost of the project is difficult to estimate before receiving the engineering report. Installation of the structure, and reinforcement of the building itself if necessary, must be carried out under the Construction Decree (CCQ).
Suitable crane type: Top running
image (7)

Hoists

The hoist is the central element of a hoisting system. It is essential to take into account the operating cycle, the environment and the budget when selecting the right hoist. Our specialists are at your disposal to help you make the right choice.

See our hoists
Transfif Chicoutimi -1
image (55)

Track suspended from the ceiling

5.

Track suspended from the ceiling

Who?
Vector (11)
Description
Track suspended from beams or other building members.
Who?
Vector (11)
Advantages
No columns on the floor.
Who?
Vector (11)
Disadvantages
An engineer must check whether the building structure can support the load generated by the crane. The overall cost of the project is difficult to estimate before receiving the engineering report. Installation of the structure, and reinforcement of the building itself if necessary, must be carried out under the Construction Decree (CCQ).
Suitable crane type: Under running

 

A structure adapted to your environment

Every building has its own constraints, and your overhead crane needs to fit in perfectly. Rather than offering standard solutions with no assessment or site survey, we design customized structures that optimize your workspace while respecting the constraints of your environment.

 

Reinforcement and construction work

If your building can't support all the new loads without modification, we reinforce certain sections to remedy the situation. This can sometimes be advantageous when it optimizes your operating floor. Premium Industrial Structures, our sister company specializing in this field, can assist you with this work.

 

Engineering

Some of these solutions require analysis by an engineer. In this case, we can put you in touch with a specialized firm, or collaborate with the one of your choice. The important thing is that the analysis is carried out by a qualified professional.

 


Frequently asked questions

01.
How do you install an overhead crane on rails?
Installing an overhead crane starts with thorough preparation. A site visit will help evaluate how the crane will be brought into the building. Depending on the site configuration, several options are possible: using an existing access, creating a temporary opening in the roof, or even dismantling a section of the wall. Next, the right equipment must be selected for mounting the crane on the rails. The crane is mounted on the runways, usually with the help of a forklift, crane, or tri-lifter. Installing an overhead crane often requires a temporary halt in activities, especially during the mounting on the rails. Good planning in advance helps optimize this downtime and avoid unexpected issues that could affect production.
02.
When is it best to install an overhead crane in a new building?
On most construction sites, it is recommended to proceed with the installation of the overhead crane once the building is enclosed, the floor is completed, and electricity is available. This allows the installation to be done in a single mobilization, which is more efficient and reduces costs. However, it is necessary to ensure that a clear area on the floor is available to allow for the safe maneuvering of the overhead crane during installation.
03.
Can the lifting capacity of an existing overhead crane be increased?

Yes, it’s sometimes possible, but it’s not guaranteed.

Increasing the capacity of an overhead crane involves more than just replacing the hoist. The entire system must be evaluated to ensure that every component can handle the increased load. Here are the main elements to check:

  • Is the main girder designed for the intended load?
  • Are the end trucks (wheels and gear motors) compatible with a higher capacity?
  • Can the runway, rails, and supporting structure withstand the additional stress?

In some cases, a well-planned modification can eliminate the need to purchase a new crane. In others, the costs or risks associated with the upgrade may be too high. An inspection can sometimes help determine whether an upgrade is feasible or if replacement is the better option.

Our recommendation: Before making any decisions, have your system (crane and runway) evaluated by a qualified engineer.

01

Their ability to listen to our specific needs has been a major strength. They have always responded quickly and efficiently, especially in emergency situations, which has greatly contributed to the continuity and success of our operations. I highly recommend Groupe Industriel Premium to any company looking for a reliable, structured, and responsive partner. Their professionalism and commitment to quality and safety make them a model in the industry.

Jean-Denis Perron
Groupe Picard
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