ComponentsEpisode 0418 Oct 2026 · 15 min · AudioSample episode
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In this episode
Two ways to bring power to a moving crane. When a conductor rail is the right choice, when a festoon is better, and why most cranes use both.
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Conductor rail (busbar)
A rail with copper conductors runs along the runway and a current collector slides on it. It suits long runways, high speeds and many cranes on the same track — brands like Vahle and Kiepe are typical.
Festoon system
Flat cables hang in loops from trolleys running in a C-track. It is simple, robust and ideal for shorter distances — most often to power the hoist trolley along the bridge.
A common layout: busbar along the building for the long travel, festoon on the bridge for the trolley.