Over the past five decades, Liebherr has continuously evolved its flagship mobile harbour crane, adapting to changing industry demands and setting new standards in performance and reliability. Key upgrades have included enhancements to the crane’s tower, boom, and undercarriage, accommodating larger and heavier cargoes while prioritizing energy efficiency and sustainability. The latest LHM series emphasizes advanced electronics and automation technology.
Liebherr has established itself as one of the leaders in the global mobile harbour crane market, thanks to its reputation for reliable equipment and a comprehensive service network that reaches even the most remote locations. The company’s journey began with the LGM 1130 in 1974, designed to support STS container cranes, marking a significant moment during the rise of containerization.
As the need for flexibility in cargo handling grew, Liebherr introduced the LHM 250 in 1996, which featured innovative telemetry and enhanced maneuverability. The LHM 500, launched in 2002, focused on environmental sustainability with a robust design that extended the crane’s lifecycle.
Liebherr’s advancements didn’t stop there. SmartGrip, introduced in 2014, optimized grab filling rates through intelligent adjustments, while Sycratronic, developed in 2004, enhanced tandem lifting safety and efficiency. The Pactronic system, launched in 2010, utilized energy storage to improve hoisting speeds while reducing emissions.
A major milestone came in 2019 with the launch of the LPS 420 E, Liebherr’s first all-electric portal crane, significantly reducing energy consumption and emissions. The latest LHM series, released in 2022, incorporates advanced automation capabilities, paving the way for data-driven logistics in port operations.
As the maritime industry evolves, Liebherr remains committed to innovation and sustainability, with a focus on renewable energy and optimized operations. “The goals for the next 50 years are clear: continuous enhancements, swift adaptation to new developments, and maintaining our family-owned agility,” says Andreas Ritschel, General Manager Sales for mobile harbour cranes at Liebherr-MCCtec Rostock GmbH. With a legacy of excellence and a clear vision for the future, Liebherr is poised to remain an industry leader in mobile harbour crane technology.
