With the introduction of the LR 1400 SX, Liebherr has extended its crawler crane range to include lifting capacities of up to 400 tonnes.
At ConExpo, Liebherr introduced the LR 1400 SX, its largest multipurpose crawler crane, as one of its new flagship machines for the North American market. At the trade show, the LR 1400 SX was fitted with a 41 metre main boom and a 44 metre luffing jib.
“The LR 1400 SX features a compact design which makes it easy to transport,” said Kai Friedrich, Managing Director of Liebherr USA.
“Like all Liebherr equipment, the crane features several assistance systems that support safe and easy operation on all jobsites.”
With the compact transport weight of 46 tonnes, the complete crawler crane can be easily transported easily between jobsites. The machine’s platform and railings remain attached to the uppercarriage during transportation and only need to be folded down. Due to the crane’s self-assembly system, the boom sections, carbody counterweight, crawlers and hoist winches can be easily assembled.
The LR 1400 SX crawler crane can even hydraulically lift, lower and secure the 150 tonne rear counterweight without assistance.
“The safe loading system and remote control enables this crane to be ready for operation within a work day, and does not require heavy tools or auxiliary cranes,” Friedrich said.
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The four crawler drives make it easier to maneuver the LR 1400 SX on jobsites where space is tight. Thanks to the track width adjustment, access on narrow roads is also simplified.
Gradient Travel Aid
Gradient Travel Aid improves the crawler crane’s ability to navigate slopes. The control system automatically calculates the centre of gravity and warns the operator before the crane leaves the safe area. While travelling, the operator receives information about the permissible and actual gradient, and the crane’s overall centre of gravity.
As well, the Ground Pressure Visualization feature calculates the real-time ground pressure of the crane and compares it with the specified safety limits of the relevant position.
During lifting work, the operator can lower these plates to significantly increase the crane’s ground contact area. This provides the ability to reduce ground pressure under the crane by more than half.
Boom Up-and-Down Assistant
When erecting or lowering the boom, the Boom Up-and-Down Assistant this assistance system indicates the approach to the tipping border and automatically stops operation before the operator enters an unsafe zone. Furthermore, the crawler crane operator no longer has to move the winches of the main boom and luffing jib separately. Controlled folding of the luffing jib begins at the press of a button. The speed of the laying down procedure is controlled with a single joystick.
Flexible crawler crane operation
Radio remote control gives the crane operator flexibility and additional safety during operation. The crane can be operated from outside the cab to allow for a better overview of the construction site and avoid blind spots. Depending on the application, a second person is no longer required to assist with hand signals during lifting operations.
Watch the assembly process here:
