08.10.2013

First Liebherr LHM 550 in UK

The Port of Tilbury, part of the Forth Ports group has taken delivery of the first Liebherr LHM 550 mobile harbour crane in the UK.

The crane is intended to help meet the growing demand of bulk cargo at the port and to support its existing container operation.
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The Liebherr LHM550 being delivered direct to the quay side

The Liebherr LHM 550 has a maximum lift capacity of 144 tonnes and a boom length of 54 metres. Weighing in at more than 400 tonnes and standing 79 meters tall it is the largest harbour mobile crane in use in the UK.

The LHM 550 was delivered fully assembled and ready to be put to work. Delivery was made by sea transport on the specially chartered vessel M/V Meri. The vessel loaded the crane at the Liebherr factory in Rostock, Northern Germany and following a four day journey the vessel unloaded directly onto the quay side at Tilbury. The crane simply drove off the ship and on to the berth where it will be working.
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The LHM 550 being unloaded

Peter Ward, senior asset manager at the Port of Tilbury said: “The new crane is part of our continued expansion of capabilities at Tilbury. With the Liebherr up and working we are able to quickly and efficiently service the growing volume of bulk commodities business coming through the Port. With 34 berths in the Port flexibility is a key part of the service we offer our clients. We are able to utilise the crane’s mobility and flexibility of configuration to serve our customer’s needs when and where they arise.”