Algeria QDY50/20T Metallurgical Overhead Crane sales case study
This project describes the selection, supply, and delivery of a QDY50/20T double-girder ladle crane tailored for a steelmaking customer in Algeria. The QDY50/20T is a metallurgy-grade overhead crane designed specifically for handling hot metal ladles and related duties in a steel mill environment. For this Algerian project the unit was specified with thermal protection, heavy-duty A7 duty classification, dual-capacity lifting arrangements, and electrical/mechanical safeguards suited for continuous high-temperature operation in a production line. The solution balances safety, uptime, and total cost of ownership for a demanding metallurgical application.
Project background and client requirements
The customer is an Algerian steelworks that required a robust ladle crane to handle molten steel, transfer ladles between furnace and casting area, and assist with routine maintenance/tasks around the melt shop. Key requirements were:
Heavy-duty continuous operation (metallurgical duty cycle) — the crane must meet heavy duty standards typical for steel plants.
Dual lifting capacity to provide flexibility: a primary high-capacity lifting function for full ladles and a secondary lighter capacity for smaller items and tooling.
Reliability and safety features: overload protection, limit switches, emergency stop, redundant braking, and protection for electrical/electronic systems.
Local suitability: compatibility with Algeria’s power system (typically 380V/50Hz), straightforward spare parts supply, and on-site commissioning and operator training.
Product selected — QDY50/20T: why it fits
The QDY series are double girder ladle/steelmaking cranes engineered for molten metal handling and continuous metallurgical duty. They are built with a box-type bridge, trolley mechanisms and thermal protection measures to withstand the rigors of a melt shop. Common specifications across the series include working classes appropriate for heavy use (A7/A8), spans and lifting heights tailored to plant layout, and capacities that range across the series to match customer needs. For this project the QDY50/20T variant was chosen because:
Dual-capacity configuration (50t / 20t):allows the plant to handle full ladles and smaller loads without changing cranes or hoists, increasing operational flexibility. Documentation and factory model sheets for QDY50/20t configurations are used widely by manufacturers and exporters.
Double-girder structure: provides the stiffness and lower deflection required when moving large, hot ladles, improving safety and precision in pouring/positioning operations.Designed for high temperatures: thermal shielding and special design details protect the main girder, trolley, and electrical equipment from heat. Many QDY ladle cranes are supplied with thermal protection and high-duty classification for exactly this environment.
(These features make the QDY50/20T a standard, cost-effective choice for modern melt shops that need a rugged, serviceable ladle crane.)Technical highlights and safety features supplied
The delivered QDY50/20T package for Algeria included the following technical and safety items (typical for the model and adapted to the client’s specification):
Main/auxiliary hoists: main hoist rated \~50 t with suitable duty motors and gearbox; auxiliary 20 t hoist for lighter loads and tool handling. (Dual-hoist arrangements are common in QDY metallurgy cranes.)Box-type double girder bridge with full welding, shot-blasting and corrosion protection finish for long life in a harsh environment.
Thermal protection and shielding on the bottom flange and trolley areas, plus high-temperature resistant components where required.
Electrical and control: 380V/50Hz compatible power design, VVF/AC inverter speed control for smooth lifting and travel, overload protection, phase-loss protection, limit switches, and emergency stop systems.
Safety devices: weight overload protection, buffer systems, travel/hoist limits, and an emergency braking system to meet metallurgical safety expectations.Each item was validated against the customer's process drawings and safety checklist before fabrication.
Logistics, installation and commissioning in Algeria
For overseas metallurgical crane projects the delivery plan addressed: factory acceptance testing (FAT), packing for sea shipment, customs documentation, and pre-coordinated arrival windows with the Algerian site. The supplier provided:
1. FAT and inspection at the manufacturing plant (load tests, run-in tests, functional checks).2. Seaworthy packing and markings for the heavy bridge sections and trolley assemblies.
3. Site supervision: a team for mechanical assembly, alignment, and electrical hookup at the Algerian plant followed by load testing and commissioning. Local technicians were included in the process for knowledge transfer.
The QDY50/20T solution was designed to deliver measurable operational advantages:
Increased throughput and reduced cycle time: robust lifting capacity and smooth, inverter-controlled motions enable faster, safer ladle transfers.Improved safety and lower risk: thermal protection, overload systems and redundant safety devices minimize exposure to molten metal risk.
Flexibility: dual-capacity hoist arrangement reduces the need for multiple lifting devices and simplifies workflow.
Lower lifecycle cost: durable double-girder construction and standardized components simplify maintenance and spare-parts management.
For steelmakers evaluating ladle cranes for demanding environments—especially in North Africa and similar regions—the QDY family (including the QDY50/20T configuration) represents a proven, purpose-built option. When considering procurement, we recommend early coordination on span, lifting height, electrical supply, and on-site commissioning plans so the crane is optimized for the plant layout and operating procedures. For more detailed technical drawings, factory test reports, or a tailored quotation for an Algerian project, we can prepare a specification pack and cost breakdown on request.
