More experience, more confidence: six questions on the new period of use for Liebherr fibre ropes

“Through structured ageing trials, we were able to prove the durability of our fibre rope on the test rig. To do this, we exposed several ropes to weathering at different locations worldwide for 2, 4 and 6 years, then tested them to failure under realistic conditions. The results show that, even after 6 years, the values achieved are nearly identical to those of a new rope. Alongside this, we analysed how Fibre cranes are actually being used out in the field. Looking back over the past seven years, the data shows that many ropes are being used well below their previously permitted period of use.”

“The increased overall service life and the increased period of use apply to all new ropes, as well as to all ropes already in the field, regardless of their production date. Customers don't need to do anything, the increase applies automatically. The increased overall service life of 16 years applies worldwide, while the period of use is up to 12 years in temperate regions and up to 8 years in hot regions, depending on the climate. By the turn of the year, more than 400 Fibre cranes will be in the market, and evaluations from the past seven years show that at least half of all cranes benefit significantly from the new ruling. Should a rope be used more heavily, the actual stress it experiences remains the decisive factor. As before, the discard criterion is indicated by the appearance of the red signal layer.”

“One standout feature of Fibre technology is the ability to repair fibre ropes directly on the crane. Combined with rope shortening, this resolves around 90 per cent of all rope damage, meaning a rope change can often be avoided altogether and downtime on site is reduced. Further benefits are wide-ranging: easy handling, economical operation, investment security, and efficient, responsible use. The technology saves time and improves comfort and safety on site. Decades of experience on the test rig and in the field confirm the rope's robustness and repairability. Building on existing systems from steel-wire-rope cranes, load capacity increases of up to 40 per cent are possible with efficient use of resources. If I had to highlight one standout feature, it would be the repairability of fibre ropes, which offers a real answer to challenges such as the shortage of skilled labour on site.”