50 years of the Liebherr mobile harbour crane

(Posted on 04/11/24)

The global market for mobile harbour cranes has seen Liebherr rise to prominence, thanks to the consistent satisfaction of customers who rely on the brand’s dependable equipment and comprehensive service network that extends even to the most remote locations. This trust has been built over years of delivering exceptional performance in the mobile harbour crane segment, making Liebherr a preferred choice across diverse regions and product configurations.

The legacy and evolution of the Liebherr mobile harbour crane couldn’t be more illustrative than with the LGM 1130 introduced in 1974. Mobile harbour cranes in those times were often used as backup for STS container cranes, positioned under the container crane itself. This was made possible through a folding tower design that allowed the LGM to fold its boom, drive underneath the container crane, and erect itself again to then support the STS. The LGM was introduced during a period when containerisation was becoming increasingly dominant, and global trade routes were expanding.

Mobile harbour cranes are renowned for their flexibility and versatility, and this trait was reinforced over time.

Capable of handling various applications such as bulk handling, container handling, and heavy goods transport, these cranes needed to offer more efficiency compared to other port equipment.

The rubber-tired undercarriage provides excellent load distribution, eliminating the need for extensive quay

preparation and allowing for easy transition to new projects or ports.

With the introduction of the LHM 250 in 1996, new benchmarks for efficiency and innovation were set.

This crane featured an X-shaped undercarriage and individually steerable wheelsets, allowing for improved manoeuvrability in increasingly narrow port environments. The LHM 250 was also the first Liebherr mobile harbour crane to incorporate telemetry, enabling remote monitoring and data

“Over the years, Liebherr has continuously adapted to market demands, introducing groundbreaking models that have had an impact on port operations,” says Sebastian Simon, product manager at Liebherr Rostock. “Our commitment to innovation and quality has made us a trusted partner in the

maritime industry.”

The LHM 500, launched in 2002, continued this legacy with its robust design and increased focus on environmental sustainability. The crane’s tubular tower and 4-chord boom were designed to enhance steelwork reliability, extending the crane’s lifecycle and reducing its environmental impact. In 2010, innovation saw a shift towards the integration of digital technologies and automation in port operations, with the LHM 550 incorporating advanced telemetry and other features.

Enhancing technical capabilities is just one aspect of improving logistical operations. Maximising limited space is another, and portal crane solutions excel in this area. Liebherr’s LPS cranes have been pivotal in port operations for decades. Their rail-mounted configurations and space-saving portal undercarriage, combined with versatile mobile harbour crane technology, ensure efficient cargo handling in tight locations. The LPS series, including models like the LPS 420 E, epitomises innovation and practicality, handling containers, bulk goods, and heavy lifts up to 308 tonnes with the LPS 800.

As the maritime industry continues to evolve, Liebherr remains committed to leading the way in innovation and sustainability. The company’s focus on data-driven logistics and helping to build out a more renewable port logistics infrastructure through its product innovations ensures that its cranes are prepared for the future.