The Port of Tilbury has expanded its fleet with its third LHM 550 mobile harbour crane from Liebherr Great Britain.
The multifunctional crane has been acquired to support the growing operations of London’s major Port, including Aggregate Industries’ new cement grinding manufacturing facility and import terminal.
The crane arrived on 18 January via the Baltic Sea fully assembled on the MV Meri heavy load vessel from Liebherr-MCCtec Rostock, Germany.
With an outreach of 54 metres and a 144-tonne configured lifting capacity, the LHM 550 is engineered for high-volume cargo throughput. The unloading of the crane was assisted by an LH 150 Port Litronic material handler which has been in operation at Tilbury since 2023.
The LHM 550 crane has been specified with additional technology, including an over-pressure system to best aid future projects, including Aggregate Industries’ facility on the port.
Once it’s operational in 2026, the crane will handle granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS) a low-carbon alternative to conventional cement, unloading it from the vessel into the hopper of the plant.
The crane’s LieGEN energy recovery system captures and reuses energy, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing fuel consumption. The latest engine technology is fitted to comply with the most stringent emissions standards.
The crane operates on HVO fuel from delivery, reducing emissions, while its electric-ready design allows for a seamless transition to zero-emission power in the future.
Paul Dale, Chief Operating Officer of Forth Ports said: “We have set out ambitious net zero targets across our business and are investing in greener technology to ensure that our operations are sustainable.
“The Liebherr LHM 550 joins our busy fleet in Tilbury and they will all support our growing bulks and heavy lift work across our port estate. We have a long-term relationship with Liebherr across the group and we are aligned in our commitment to greener operations.”
Late last year, Liebherr Container Cranes Ltd. announced its first-ever contract to supply two ship-to-shore (STS) container cranes to container terminal operator, TraPac Oakland, on the West Coast of the US.