The RTG Crane Spreader is the lifting device installed beneath a Rubber-Tyred Gantry (RTG) crane trolley. It is used for container lifting, transfer, stacking, loading, and unloading operations. By connecting to the container corner castings through a twistlock system, the spreader provides a secure connection during handling in ports, container terminals, and inland container yards.
RTG crane spreaders are classified by their structure and operating functions. Common options include fixed, telescopic, rotating, and automatic spreaders.
A fixed RTG spreader has a fixed frame length and is designed for single-size container handling. The structure is simple and mainly used in dedicated or stable operating conditions.
Applications: used in facilities handling a single container size or specialized lifting operations.
A telescopic RTG spreader uses a hydraulic or electric extension system to adjust its frame length for different ISO container sizes. It is the most common type in container terminals.
Applications: Suitable for ports, inland container depots, rail terminals, and logistics yards handling mixed container sizes.
A rotating RTG spreader is equipped with a controlled rotation function to assist container alignment during loading and unloading. It is used where container positioning is not consistent.
Applications: Used in container yards where precise container positioning is required or where containers may not be perfectly aligned.
An automatic RTG spreader integrates sensors and control systems for locking, positioning, and operation feedback. It is used in semi-automated and automated container terminals.
Applications:Suitable for high-throughput container terminals, semi-automated facilities, and automated port operations.
RTG crane spreader is built from several core mechanical and control components that work together during container lifting and stacking operations.
The structure and components of the spreader determine its stability, safety, and operating performance in container handling work.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Spreader Type | Fixed / Telescopic / Rotating / Automatic |
| Container Sizes | 20ft / 40ft / 45ft ISO Containers |
| Safe Working Load (SWL) | Customizable |
| Telescopic Adjustment | Hydraulic or Electric |
| Twistlock System | ISO Standard Twistlocks |
| Rotation Angle | Optional (Depending on Model) |
| Control Mode | Manual / Semi-Automatic / Automatic |
| Drive System | Hydraulic or Electric |
| Anti-Sway System | Optional |
| Position Monitoring | Optional |
| Overload Protection | Available |
| Power Supply | Customized According to RTG System |
| Operating Temperature | Customized |
| Surface Protection | Marine Environment Coating Available |
| Compliance Standards | FEM / DIN / IEC / AWS / GB |
Specifications can be customized to crane capacity, container-handling requirements, automation level, and project conditions.
RTG selection depends on operating requirements, yard conditions, and long-term cost considerations. The main factors below are used to evaluate whether a system fits the intended container handling operation.
A proper RTG configuration is determined by balancing lifting performance, yard layout, mobility, power system, automation level, and lifecycle cost based on actual terminal conditions.
RTG crane spreaders are connected to the crane’s lifting, power, and control systems. These systems work together during container lifting, transfer, and stacking operations.
The spreader is connected to the RTG trolley and hoisting system. Lifting, lowering, and container positioning are completed through coordinated trolley and hoist movements.
Electrical connections provide power for telescopic beams, twistlocks, sensors, and auxiliary equipment installed on the spreader.
Control signals are exchanged between the spreader and RTG control cabinet for locking, unlocking, telescoping, and status indication functions.
The spreader can be configured for manual, semi-automatic, or automatic RTG operations according to terminal requirements.
Equipment status and operating information can be transmitted to remote control rooms and terminal management systems.
Mechanical, electrical, and control integration are important parts of RTG spreader operation, affecting container handling performance, equipment management, and terminal operations.
RTG crane spreaders are equipped with multiple safety devices for container handling, equipment protection, and operational control.
These safety features provide continuous monitoring of lifting, locking, positioning, and equipment status during daily operations.
RTG crane spreaders are widely used in container handling operations across ports, terminals, logistics facilities, and intermodal transportation hubs.

Container Ports, Marine Terminals, Seaport Container Yards
Used for container loading, unloading, transfer, and stacking operations between vessels, trucks, and storage yards.

Container Yards (CY), Inland Container Depots (ICD), Dry Ports
Used for container stacking, retrieval, and yard transfer operations where high storage density is required.

Logistics Parks, Freight Distribution Centers, Warehousing Facilities
Used for container movement, temporary storage, and cargo transfer within logistics operations.

Rail Freight Terminals, Intermodal Hubs, Truck-to-Rail Transfer Stations
Used for container transfer between rail wagons, trucks, and storage areas.

Temporary Container Yards, Construction Logistics Bases, Project Cargo Storage Areas
Used where flexible deployment and container handling capacity are required without fixed rail infrastructure.

Manufacturing Plants, Steel Facilities, Energy Projects, Industrial Logistics Centers
Used for handling containers and specialized cargo within industrial transportation and storage operations.
Application requirements, container volume, and operating conditions determine the most suitable RTG crane spreader configuration for each facility.
RTG crane spreaders can be customized according to container specifications, terminal operating conditions, power supply requirements, and environmental factors.
| Customization Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Lifting Capacity | Customized according to container weight and crane requirements. Suitable for 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft ISO containers. |
| Automation Level | Manual, semi-automatic, or automatic operation. Optional anti-sway, automatic positioning, remote control, and TOS integration. |
| Power System | Hydraulic or electric drive. Power supply can be configured to local standards such as 400V / 50Hz / 3Ph. |
| Corrosion Protection | Heavy-duty coatings, corrosion-resistant components, sealed electrical systems, and higher IP protection levels. |
| Extreme Environment Package | Available for low-temperature, high-temperature, coastal, and dusty operating conditions. |
The final configuration is determined by container specifications, terminal conditions, and project requirements.
Years of experience in crane and container handling equipment manufacturing for ports, terminals, and logistics facilities.
Spreader configurations are available for different container sizes, lifting capacities, automation levels, and project requirements.
Manufactured with high-strength materials and strict quality control processes to support long-term operation in demanding environments.
Designed and manufactured in accordance with FEM, DIN, IEC, AWS, GB, and other applicable industry standards.
Heavy-duty surface treatment and corrosion protection options are available for coastal and high-humidity operating conditions.
Installation guidance, spare parts support, technical consultation, and after-sales service are provided throughout the equipment lifecycle.
WEIHUA specializes in the design and manufacture of RTG crane spreaders for container handling applications. From standard configurations to customized projects, we provide equipment, technical support, and service throughout the project lifecycle. Contact us for specifications, pricing, customization options, and project consultation.


Most RTG crane spreaders are designed for standard ISO containers, including 20ft, 40ft, and 45ft containers. Customized configurations are available for special container types and project requirements.
A fixed spreader is designed for a specific container size, while a telescopic spreader can adjust its length to handle different container sizes. Telescopic spreaders are the most common choice for modern container terminals.
Lifting capacity depends on crane specifications and handling requirements. Configurations are available for both standard container operations and heavy-duty lifting applications.
Yes. RTG crane spreaders can be configured for manual, semi-automatic, or automatic operation and can be connected to terminal control and monitoring systems.
Common safety features include twistlock status monitoring, overload protection, emergency release functions, position detection sensors, and anti-collision systems.
Yes. RTG crane spreaders can be equipped with heavy-duty protective coatings, corrosion-resistant components, sealed electrical systems, and high-IP protection for coastal and port environments.
Routine maintenance typically includes inspection of twistlocks, telescopic mechanisms, hydraulic or electric drive systems, sensors, fasteners, and structural components. Maintenance schedules vary according to operating conditions and workload.
Yes. Configuration options may include lifting capacity, automation level, power system, corrosion protection, and special packages for low-temperature, high-temperature, or high-humidity environments.
Weihua, founded in 1988, has evolved into a global leader in China's intelligent manufacturing field. We specialize in smart crane R&D and production while offering AGV solutions. Our professional engineering, delivery, and after-sales teams provide one-stop technical support, customized solutions, on-site installation guidance, and rapid-response global services to ensure every project operates safely and efficiently.
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