Liebherr has unveiled the new 700-tonne LR 1700-1.0 crawler crane, successor to the LR 1600/2 model. The design of the LR 1700-1.0 with a maximum lifting capacity of 700 tonnes is based on its 600 tonne predecessor and features all the innovations of Liebherr’s crawler crane developments from the last few years. Its track width is slightly larger than its predecessor at 8.7 metres whilst the length of the crawler carriers has grown to 11.35 metres. The LR 1700-1.0 is available with Quick Connection as an option. This means that the transport weight of the slewing platform (without the SA frame and winches) can be reduced to around 42 tonnes, well below the limit of 45 tonnes to ensure low cost heavy haulage The same applies to the crawler carriers which, with their 2 metre crawler pads and 4-fold drive, weigh in at just 43 tonnes. According to Liebherr another low cost feature for operators of the LR 1600/2 is that a large number of equipment components from the predecessor crane can also be used for the new LR 1700-1.0. These include the S sections for the main boom, the luffing jib, the 600 t head, several winches, hook blocks, ballast slabs and the runner.
The new base machine delivers between 10 and 15 percent more lifting capacity. Furthermore, the 3.5 metre H lattice sections at the bottom of the main boom improves the lateral stability of the entire system. The LR 1700-1.0 is ideal for both, classic industry work and also for wind power. The boom can be raised to a height of up to 198 metres, comprising the main boom at 102 metres and a luffing jib at 96 metres. These lattice sections enable the crane to be used in purely main boom mode with a length of up to 162 metres. For erecting wind turbines, the LR 1700-1.0 can achieve a maximum main boom length of 165 metres using additional H sections. A fixed jib of up to 15 metres in length can be attached to this.
The first models of the new crane will be delivered around mid-2021, around the same time as the final LR 1600/2 units will be delivered.
