Liebherr cranes defy wind and waves during construction of the Ytre Steinsund Bridge in Norway

In western Norway, the Ytre Steinsund Bridge is currently under construction. Once completed by the end of 2026, the cantilever bridge will significantly improve connectivity between coastal areas near Hardbakke. For this demanding project at the edge of the Sognefjord, the construction team relies on four powerful Liebherr EC-H series tower cranes, which operate reliably even in harsh weather and can be flexibly adapted to the site’s specific requirements.

Robust technology for rough seas and strong winds

The Sognefjord coastline is known for its strong winds, rough seas and challenging weather conditions. This is exactly where three Liebherr 280 EC-H 12 Litronic cranes with hook heights of up to 60.3 metres and one 132 EC-H with a hook height of 27.5 metres are in operation. With working radius of up to 60 metres, the high-top cranes ensure the precise handling of steel and concrete components, directly from the boat onto the bridge. The intelligent Litronic control system of the 280 EC-H cranes ensures smooth and safe movements, even in changing wind conditions.

Flexibility through customised foundations

The Liebherr cranes with the help of Liebherr service partner UCO are mounted on various foundation types to ensure optimal anchoring and maximum stability. Three out of four High-top cranes are installed on cross bases as well as on solid concrete foundations with anchoring. One of the Liebherr EC-H cranes is positioned directly in the fjord on a specially designed steel frame, which is partially cantilevered over the water and anchored to the seabed.

The Liebherr cranes play a central role in the assembly of the bridge. Steel and concrete elements are delivered by boat and lifted directly from the moving vessel onto the bridge with precision. These demanding operations are only possible with reliable and accurate crane technology that delivers full performance even under extreme conditions. Thanks to their robust design, flexible assembly options and precise control systems, the EC-H cranes are making a decisive contribution to the smooth progress of construction and to the successful realisation of a project that will sustainably improve infrastructure in the region.