When a cutter shows its teeth: Liebherr equipment passes the endurance test

Various slurry walls need to be constructed for the maritime infrastructure project. Depending on their static function as load-bearing or non-load-bearing elements, they differ in width and depth. What they all have in common is that the realisation is very challenging, because the foundations in the harbour area are of reinforced concrete, with a lot of steel. This means it is especially important that the Italian company R.C.M. Costruzioni srl deploys powerful machines that can penetrate these soil layers. ‘We have been relying on Liebherr for many years. In this case, we are using a large-dimensioned slurry wall cutter to speed up the construction process,’ says site manager Leoncio Fortunato. The high torque of the cutter wheels is decisive in this endurance test. A major advantage for the customer is that this can be tested and checked in advance on the test stand at the Liebherr site in Nenzing.

R.C.M. Costruzioni srl is working down to a depth of 10 metres with the Liebherr LSC 8-20 cutter. The new model is being used for the first time in Genoa after being presented to the market at Bauma. ‘The slurry wall cutter is extremely powerful and reliable. It has a high cutting force and enables an even and efficient excavation without excessive loads,’ explains Manuel Dazzi, who operates the cutting machine.

Two duty cycle crawler cranes are equipped with slurry wall grabs for further excavation work: the HS 8100.1 with the hydraulic HSG 5-18 and the HS 8130.1 with a mechanical version. This involves digging down to 34 metres into the stable clay layer of the ground to ensure that the slurry walls are securely embedded. The cutter and the hydraulic grab from Liebherr are modularly designed and can be flexibly adapted to suit jobsite requirements. Both impress with a robust base body, high weight and low centre of gravity, resulting in even better verticality. This is particularly important for slurry walls with larger dimensions or extremely difficult ground conditions, such as during the construction of the dry dock in Genoa.

Cooperation between Liebherr and building contractor

All three Liebherr duty cycle crawler cranes are not only easy to combine in terms of application, but also for the operators, as they are controlled via the same cabin concept with the same control levers and monitors. This means it is easy to change between the machines and to work productively. ‘The decisive factors for choosing the machines were their high performance, reliability and comprehensive maintenance service, as well as the technical advice provided by Liebherr during the planning and realisation of the individual construction phases. This contributes significantly to the successful and timely realisation of the construction work on the quay,’ says site manager Leoncio Fortunato. ‘The entire project is characterised by close cooperation between the construction company and machine manufacturer, modern technology and precise planning. The aim is to successfully realise an efficient and future-oriented maritime infrastructure project of national importance.’ R.C.M. Costruzioni srl started the work in 2023 and will finish the project in 2026.