The new state-of-the-art LHM 180 mobile harbour crane will increase the efficiency of ABP’s Newport operation as throughput at the 685-acre port, which currently handles around 1.5 million tonnes of cargo annually, continues to increase year-on-year. The LHM 180 arrived at ABP Newport in component form. It was assembled by a team of Liebherr engineers within two weeks.
The LHM 180 has a maximum lifting capacity of 64 tonnes and an outreach of up to 35 metres. The machine will principally be used for the handling of bulk materials by means of a 24 cubic metre Verstegen mechanical grab. This crane will be the first in the UK to be fitted with Liebherr’s new SmartGrip bulk handling system. This unique technology operates as an intelligent system that optimises grab filling rates in a self-learning manner. It provides numerous advantages including greater performance efficiency and zero overloads.
In addition, the crane is equipped with several Liebherr features: Cycoptronic anti-sway system, LiDAT telematics system for remote service and the new Liebherr Tier 4 final diesel engine.
The new all-rounder is also fitted with a powered rotating hook to handle project cargo and containers. The addition of this new LHM 180 brings the total number of Liebherr mobile harbour cranes based at ABP Newport to three.