Understanding Portal Cranes: A Comprehensive Guide
- Tian

- Aug 22
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 13
Standardizing Portal Crane Components
To help everyone better understand portal cranes and familiarize themselves with the names of their various parts, this guide aims to standardize the names of all portal crane components for future ease of use. This also facilitates record-keeping and maintenance inspections for safety officers and operators.
Key Components of Portal Cranes
Portal cranes are essential in various industries. They are designed to handle heavy loads with precision and efficiency. Below, I will outline the critical components and their functions.
1. Running Car
When a portal crane moves, it is referred to as the "running car." This term is crucial for communication among operators and safety personnel.
2. Directional Movement
Running Car to the North: This term is used when the portal crane moves north.
Running Car to the South: This term is used when the portal crane moves south.
3. Command Gestures
The main gestures for commanding a portal crane include:
Lifting
Lowering
Left rotation
Right rotation
Jog lifting
Jog lowering
Increase
Decrease
These commands are vital for the safe and efficient operation of the crane.
4. Cable Reel Actions
The action of the cable reel is essential for the operation of the crane. It involves:
Reeling in the cable
Unreeling the cable
Understanding these actions helps ensure proper handling of the crane's lifting mechanisms.
5. Traveling Room
The place where the traveling electric cabinet is located at the end beam of a portal crane is collectively called the traveling room. This area is crucial for the electrical operations of the crane.
6. Reference Position
The reference position of the rotating mechanism is the cab of the driver's cab. In this context:
Left is left
Right is right
This standardization aids in the clarity of operations.
7. Electric Hoist
The traveling trolley on the drum in the machine room is known as an electric hoist. This component is integral to lifting and lowering loads.
8. Hand Chain Hoist
A hand chain hoist, which does not fall off, is commonly referred to as a hand chain hoist. This device is essential for manual lifting tasks.
9. Headlight
The lighting lamp at the hinge point of the portal crane's boom is commonly known as a headlight. This feature enhances visibility during operations, especially in low-light conditions.
Importance of Standardization
Standardizing the names of portal crane components is essential for several reasons:
Improved Communication: Clear terminology enhances communication among operators and maintenance teams.
Safety: Accurate identification of parts helps in conducting thorough inspections and ensuring safety protocols are followed.
Training: New operators can learn the terminology more quickly, leading to more efficient training processes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the various components of portal cranes is vital for effective operation and maintenance. By standardizing the terminology, we can improve safety, communication, and training within the industry.
For those involved in heavy-duty port and bulk material handling, familiarizing oneself with these terms is not just beneficial; it is essential for operational excellence.
By integrating smart port and smart city solutions, we can further enhance the efficiency of our operations. This commitment to innovation positions TianLi Heavy Industries as a leader in the field.
For more information on our products and services, please visit our website.





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