To offer application-specific drive solutions engineered for lifting, travelling and positioning functions in demanding crane environments, industrial equipment supplier BMG has strengthened its offering to the crane and materials handling sector through the supply and support of industrial gear units (IGUs) from Nord DRIVESYSTEMS, Nord MAXXDRIVE XD and XJ IGUs.

The Nord MAXXDRIVE XD and XJ series form a part of BMG’s complete drive systems which combine IGUs, high-efficiency motors and advanced drive electronics, says BMG Electromechanical Division gears regional manager Barry Stoltz.

“This holistic approach enables crane manufacturers to source coordinated drive solutions from a single supplier, ensuring compatibility, performance optimisation and simplified system integration,” he states.

Additionally, the MAXXDRIVE XD series has been specifically engineered for lifting gear applications, where precision, reliability and load distribution are paramount.

The extended centre distance of this system, Stoltz explains, allows for a U-shaped arrangement that positions the rope drum and motor on the same side of the gear unit. Moreover, this configuration reduces mechanical stress, improves load sharing and enables more compact crane designs, while also lowering overall system weight and energy consumption.

“The result is a drive solution that enhances lifting performance, while contributing to reduced structural requirements in crane construction,” he notes.

The MAXXDRIVE XJ series – which complements the XD series – is designed for travelling and cross-travel drives, featuring a distinctive J-shaped shaft arrangement that combines vertical and horizontal gear stages.

This configuration, Stoltz adds, enables space-saving installations without compromising torque capacity or efficiency, making it particularly suitable for trolley and gantry travel systems, where installation space is limited, but performance demand remains high.

“Both series are based on Nord’s proven UNICASE housing design, which ensures precise alignment of bearings and gear components within a rigid, one-piece structure. This design reduces wear, extends service life and ensures quiet, reliable operation under heavy loads,” he states.

Additionally, these gear units are engineered to operate efficiently in challenging environmental conditions, including dusty, humid and high-temperature environments typically encountered in crane and port operations.

Moreover, Nord’s modular systems allow for extensive configuration options, including a range of shaft designs, couplings, brake systems and thermal management solutions.

“This flexibility enables drive systems to be tailored to specific crane applications – from heavy-duty lifting gear to travelling drives and synchronised multi-motion systems,” Stoltz notes.

Another key advantage of the Nord solution, he points out, is energy efficiency. It features high-efficiency motors and intelligent drive control systems to reduce power consumption, while maintaining consistent torque and speed control.

Moreover, the integrated monitoring and diagnostic capabilities support predictive maintenance strategies, helping operators reduce unplanned downtime and optimise life-cycle costs.

“The introduction of the MAXXDRIVE XD and XJ series strengthens BMG’s position in the crane and materials handling sector by providing robust, efficient and adaptable drive solutions that address the demands of modern crane systems,” Stoltz states.

BMG’s ability to significantly reduce lead times and respond rapidly to customer requirements is particularly valuable in the crane sector, where downtime can have significant operational and financial implications, he concludes.