The crane will be used to lift next-generation offshore wind turbines and Liebherr will deliver a further LHM 600 crane to Port Esbjerg before the end of the year.
Port Esbjerg is the leading port in Europe when it comes to handling and shipping wind energy components. The port played a key role in the rise of Denmark’s offshore wind industry: 80% of the offshore wind capacity installed in Europe was shipped from the Port of Esbjerg. Its record for breakbulk is notable, as the port handles more than 500,000 tons of major wind turbine components each year.
The first LHM 800 for Port Esbjerg was delivered in 2019. The upcoming delivery in 2023 of the recently ordered second LHM 800 marks the seventh Liebherr mobile harbour crane. The Port Esbjerg is the third port in the world to have two LHM 800 cranes in its fleet.
With the second LHM 800, the port will also be able to carry out tandem lifts of up to 616 tons. This means it can handle components of the next generation of offshore wind turbines.
“Our competency lies in breakbulk and in having the capacity for tandem lifts above 600 tonnes, which is necessary not only in the on- and offshore wind market but also in supporting production in the hinterland,” said Dennis Jul Pedersen, CEO, Port Esbjerg.
Liebherr and Port Esbjerg have enjoyed a partnership for many years. The first Liebherr mobile harbour crane, an LHM 1080, was bought by the port in 1994. Many further units followed in the years after. Together with Port Esbjerg, Liebherr developed its Sycratronic tandem-lift assistance system.
"The Port of Esbjerg has been pursuing major expansion plans for decades. Our company supports the port's development by delivering a high-quality product, reliable service and innovative technology. We are grateful for the opportunity to succeed together and continue our partnership," said Roman Chopyk, sales manager, Liebherr mobile harbour cranes.
Offshore wind power activities are expected to increase significantly over the next decade, and, as wind turbines get bigger, powerful equipment is needed to handle these components. The ability to handle heavy components with mobile harbour cranes is considered to be essential for efficient and flexible harbour operations.
The LHM 800 is the largest and most powerful mobile harbour crane in the Liebherr LHM portfolio. The machine meets the ever-increasing demand for mobile heavy-duty cranes in the maritime sector. A key driver of this development is clearly the wind industry. In a special heavy-lift version, the LHM 800 is capable of lifting weights of up to 308 tons and up to 616 tons in tandem mode with Liebherr system Sycratronic.
Sycratronic is a computerised assistance system for operating two cranes with one crane operator. This makes the system not only suit ideally for tandem lifts of turbines over 600 tons, but for handling rotor blades, which in the offshore sector can be over 90 metres long.
