Liebherr is expanding its product portfolio with the introduction of the 195 HC-LH 6/12, a new hydraulic luffing jib crane designed specifically for dense metropolitan environments. The crane combines Liebherr’s established luffing-jib expertise with a powerful hydraulic system, enabling full luffing in under 90 seconds, exceptional load handling, and unmatched flexibility for high-rise construction.
Engineered for dense urban job sites
The 195 HC-LH is designed for construction sites where space is at a premium and operational precision is essential. With a working radius starting at just ten feet, and an out-of-service position of 33 feet (10 m), the crane can be placed extremely close to existing structures or positioned in highly confined areas without restricting site logistics. Its compact counter jib radius and slim jib profile allow multiple cranes to operate safely and efficiently alongside one another. This capability is particularly valuable in metropolitan areas, where high-rise projects must be realized within narrow street corridors and densely built environments.
A lift shaft installation with subsequent internal climbing is no problem at all using the 16 EC 240 tower system. In practical terms, this means that a smaller crane can be used on site rather than a larger machine that would need to be set up next to the building. Another option alongside the slim 16 EC 240 is the widely used 21 HC 290 tower system, which enables high hook heights and installation of the EasyUp 200 crane driver elevator. Both tower systems come prepared for climbing inside and outside buildings. Combining both systems together with a transition tower section makes it possible to achieve cost-efficient, high tower heights.
Despite its compact design, the 195 HC-LH reaches impressive performance figures: it offers a maximum load capacity of more than 26,400 lbs (12,000 kg) in single-fall operation and lifts over 5,600 lbs (2.550 kg) at its maximum radius. These capabilities make the crane suitable for a wide range of applications, from structural steel and precast concrete to mechanical equipment installation at significant height.
Transport and assembly designed for urban efficiency and advances hydraulics for maximum performance
To accommodate the logistical constraints of major US cities, the 195 HC-LH was engineered for efficient transport and rapid assembly. Only a small number of truckloads are required to move the crane between job sites, and the jib can be preassembled on the ground, including reeving, before being lifted in a single operation. The hoist unit remains mounted on the jib during transport to reduce assembly steps and protect key components. The slewing platform and central unit can either be lifted as a complete assembly or mounted step by step, depending on the mobile crane capacity available at the job site. These features significantly shorten the installation process, reduce the amount of work at height, and minimize disruption in heavily trafficked urban areas.
In operation, the 195 HC-LH combines powerful hydraulics with refined load-handling performance. The hydraulic luffing system allows the jib to move from horizontal to steep luffing angles in less than 90 seconds while maintaining smooth and controlled motion even under load. Liebherr’s high-performance hoist gears are available in two variants, deliver high rope drum capacities and fast hook speeds, enabling efficient handling cycles throughout all, phases of construction. For exceptionally heavy lifts that occur only once or infrequently, the crane offers a Load Plus function, increasing lifting capacity by up to 25 percent at the touch of a button.
Additionally, the 195 HC-LH is equipped with Liebherr’s latest Tower Crane Operating System 2 (TC OS 2), a modern and intuitive control interface that allows operators to customize display settings and manage all crane functions quickly and accurately. Inside the LiCAB cab, a newly developed ergonomic layout and expanded field of vision create a comfortable and precise working environment. Together, these technological advances underline Liebherr’s expertise in providing cranes that are not only powerful but also exceptionally user-friendly.
Strong first impressions: Morrow technicians complete extensive US training
Shortly after its arrival in the United States in 2025, the first 195 HC-LH was delivered to Morrow Equipment Company at their Houston, Texas, facility. The crane was fully assembled on site to allow Morrow’s senior technicians to gain hands-on experience with the new model. Liebherr specialists Aaron Malueg and Jan Weckenmann conducted an in-depth training program that covered assembly procedures, commissioning processes, operational modes, troubleshooting routines and preventative maintenance. This instructional approach ensured that participants not only understood the technical principles of the new crane but also became confident in applying them during everyday field operations. Throughout the week, technicians repeatedly highlighted the crane’s clear assembly logic, the efficiency of the hydraulic luffing system and the precision of the hoist and slewing movements.
The feedback from participants was uniformly positive, and the crane will remain fully assembled at Morrow’s Houston yard as a long-term training asset and demonstration unit.
With the introduction of the 195 HC-LH, Liebherr is bringing a powerful and highly adaptable luffing jib crane to the US market, one that was engineered specifically for the challenges of dense cities and tall structures. Its minimal footprint, fast hydraulic luffing, high lifting capacities and efficient transport concept sets a new benchmark for urban crane solutions. Combined with early positive feedback from US technicians and a strong initial training program, the 195 HC-LH is well positioned to become a key player in North America’s rapidly evolving high-rise construction landscape.
