Lattice boom crawler crane for heavy loads in use

Large-scale projects in industrial and infrastructure construction place special demands on lifting technology. Specialised crane systems are used when components weighing several hundred tonnes need to be moved.

The lattice boom crawler crane is one of these machines, which are designed for maximum load capacity and flexibility within the construction site. Unlike mobile cranes, this type of crane is not designed for road transport. It is transported disassembled in several units, which are brought to the construction site on low-loaders. The machine is only fully assembled on site.

Liebherr lattice boom crawler crane with modular design

The crane presented is based on a classic lattice boom concept. Liebherr relies on a modular structure consisting of several central components. These include the main boom, a counter-jib and various ballast systems. A key element is the slewing platform ballast, which is attached directly to the uppercarriage. This is supplemented by the so-called derrick ballast, which provides additional stability. In total, ballast quantities of several hundred tonnes are used here. This combination makes it possible to move heavy loads safely, even with large projections. The structure is designed to distribute the forces evenly and ensure the stability of the crane.

Load capacity of up to 800 tonnes in the working area

The crane's performance data shows the area in which it is used. With a jib length of 60 metres, the machine can move loads of up to 800 tonnes with a working radius of around 12 metres. Such values are typical for applications in industrial and power station construction. Cranes of this size are also used for lifting bridge elements. The high load capacity is the result of the boom length, ballasting and design. The structure currently on display comprises a jib system of around 70 metres. At the same time, the construction is designed so that significantly greater heights can be achieved.

Boom can be extended up to a hook height of 200 metres

A decisive advantage lies in the expandability of the system. The jib can be extended so that hook heights of up to 200 metres are possible. This flexibility allows the crane to be adapted to different operating conditions. Depending on the project, the length and configuration of the boom can be varied without the need for a completely new machine. This makes the crane a universal tool for different construction projects where height and load capacity vary.

Crawler chassis enables movement with load

A key difference to telescopic mobile cranes lies in the undercarriage. The lattice boom crawler crane moves on crawler tracks and can be moved around the construction site. Under suitable conditions, it is possible to move loads while travelling. A load-bearing and level surface is required. This capability considerably extends the range of applications, as loads can not only be lifted but also moved. The slow, controlled movement ensures stability. This property is a decisive advantage in the construction process, especially with heavy components.

Typical areas of application at a glance

The characteristics of the crane also determine its areas of application:

• Industrial and power plant construction with heavy components
• Bridge construction and infrastructure projects
• Assembly of large systems in the chemical industry
• Projects with high loads and large radii

Use after Bauma and economic classification

The device shown is no longer a prototype, but has already been fully developed and tested. After the presentation at Bauma, the crane will be delivered and used in a chemical plant in Portugal. With an entry-level price of around 5.5 million euros, the machine is in a range that is typical for large-scale projects. The investment is in proportion to the performance and possible applications.

With this lattice boom crawler crane, Liebherr is presenting a solution that is designed for maximum lifting capacity and flexible application configuration. The combination of modular design, high performance and manoeuvrability on the construction site makes this crane type a key tool for demanding construction projects.