• Jan 14, 2025
• News

What is the difference between RMG and RTG crane?

Discover the key differences between RMG and RTG cranes. Learn how each type enhances efficiency in container handling and logistics. Make decisions for your operations!

Container loading and unloading usually involves loading, unloading, stacking and warehousing. Container loading and unloading is a very important process, and very frequent, so efficient loading and unloading of containers is the demand of ports, terminals and other occasions. Container cranes to a certain extent can be faster and more efficient in this process. This article focuses on two commonly used container cranes, rail-mounted gantry cranes and rubber-tyred gantry cranes. While both cranes perform the essential function of container stacking and transport, they differ significantly in design, application, cost, and operation. This article explores the distinctions between RMG and RTG cranes, helping you understand their respective advantages and ideal applications.

Introduction to RMG and RTG Cranes

RMG cranes and RTG cranes are types of gantry cranes used extensively in container terminals to move and stack containers.

• RMG Cranes: Rail-Mounted Gantry cranes operate on fixed tracks. They are powered by electricity and primarily used in intermodal terminals and port areas.
• RTG Cranes: Rubber-Tyred Gantry cranes, on the other hand, are mobile units fitted with rubber tires, allowing them to move freely within the yard. They are diesel- or hybrid-powered and offer greater flexibility in yard operations.

Key Differences Between RMG and RTG Cranes

1. Mobility and Flexibility

• RMG Cranes: Being rail-mounted, RMG cranes are restricted to their fixed tracks. This limits their operational flexibility but provides stability for precise container stacking.
• RTG Cranes: RTG cranes are equipped with rubber tires, enabling them to move across different areas of the terminal. This mobility makes RTGs more versatile in handling container movement across the yard.

2. Power Source

• RMG Cranes: These cranes are powered by electricity, either through a dedicated power supply or via overhead cables. This makes them an environmentally friendly option with lower operational costs.
• RTG Cranes: Traditionally powered by diesel engines, modern RTGs often include hybrid systems or fully electric configurations to reduce emissions and fuel consumption.

3. Space and Application

• RMG Cranes: Ideal for operations requiring fixed paths and high stacking efficiency, such as intermodal terminals. Their ability to span wide areas makes them suitable for larger container yards.
• RTG Cranes: Perfect for dynamic operations in medium-sized container yards, where flexibility and mobility are more critical than high stacking density.

4. Cost and Maintenance

• RTG vs. RMG Cranes Cost: RMG cranes have higher initial installation costs due to the infrastructure required for tracks and power systems. However, their operational costs are lower over time due to electric power usage. RTGs have lower upfront costs but incur higher maintenance expenses, particularly for diesel-powered models.

RTG vs. RMG Crane Sizes and Specifications

The size and specifications of RTG and RMG cranes differ based on their intended applications:

RTG Crane Specification

• Span: Typically ranges between 5 and 9 containers wide.
• Lifting Height: Up to 6–8 containers high.
• Mobility: Equipped with rubber tires for flexible yard movements.

RMG Crane Specification

• Span: Can cover up to 14 containers wide.
• Lifting Height: Often exceeds 8 containers high, making them suitable for large-scale stacking.
• Mobility: Operates on fixed rail tracks.

Benefits of Each Crane Type

Advantages of RMG Cranes

• High Stacking Efficiency: The fixed design allows for precise container stacking.
• Environmentally Friendly: Powered by electricity, they produce zero emissions during operation.
• Cost-Effective Over Time: Reduced fuel costs and lower maintenance requirements.

Advantages of RTG Cranes

• Mobility: Can be deployed across various sections of the yard without requiring tracks.
• Versatility: Ideal for medium-sized operations with diverse yard layouts.
• Quick Setup: No additional infrastructure is needed, allowing rapid deployment.

Choosing Between RTG and RMG Cranes

When deciding between RTG and RMG cranes, several factors must be considered:

• Operational Needs: If your terminal requires mobility and flexibility, RTG cranes are the better choice. For fixed, high-density operations, RMG cranes are more suitable.
• Environmental Considerations: If reducing emissions is a priority, RMG cranes with electric power systems are a sustainable option.
• Budget Constraints: While RTGs have lower initial costs, the long-term savings from RMG cranes may justify their higher upfront investment.

Applications of RTG and RMG Cranes

RMG Cranes

• Large intermodal terminals.
• Operations requiring high stacking density.
• Areas where noise and emissions need to be minimized.

RTG Cranes

• Medium-sized container yards.
• Facilities requiring frequent yard reconfiguration.
• Locations prioritizing flexible operations over fixed layouts.

Conclusion

RTG and RMG cranes are both commonly used container gantry cranes, but they differ in design and features, and understanding the differences between the two will help you choose the right equipment for your terminal handling.