At bauma this year, Liebherr showcased its new generation of luffing jib tower cranes, the 440 HC-L and 620 HC-L. Designed with improved performance values and minimal out-of-service position, they are ideal for inner-city construction sites and projects with limited space.

The 620 HC-L is the newer, larger model, targeted at construction sites with more challenging requirements. It has a maximum lifting capacity of 18 t in one-fall operation and up to 36 t in two-fall operation, as well as a jib length of 65 m. The new Load-Plus function allows the lifting capacity to be increased by up to 76% for specific load charts, which greatly expands the crane’s range of uses.

Thanks to its compatibility with the 24 HC 630 tower system, the 620 HC-L can achieve a freestanding height of up to 74.3 m. Using existing tower sections saves on purchase costs and increases flexibility in terms of site planning. The 440 HC-L also uses the same tower system, meaning that both HC-L cranes can be assembled with the same tower sections. This optimised tower design also makes it possible to avoid complex building tie-ins, which in turn speeds up the construction process.

With an out-of-service position of just 12 m and a minimal operating position of just 4.1 m, the 620 HC-L requires very little space. Its compact design makes site planning much easier and enables several cranes to be operated efficiently in tight conditions. Its pre-assembled components – e.g. hoist and luffing ropes come already mounted on the drum – reduce set-up time on site.

Transport costs are also optimised with only 10 transport units needed at full radius, including counter-ballast. The crane’s plug & play system with central switchgear cabinet and electrical and mechanical quick connections ensures simple and time-efficient set-up.

The luffing jib is equipped with Liebherr drives and the latest EMS-4 control unit. The 12-in display of the TC-OS platform features a clear menu structure and a configuration wizard that makes setting up the crane easier and safer. A radio control with a 3.5-in display also provides maximum flexibility for the crane operator: functions such as Load-Plus, Micromove and electric weathervaning are directly integrated and ensure convenient and safe operation from an optimal position.

Meanwhile, the 440 HC-L is available in two lifting capacity versions: the 440 HC-L 12/24 and the 440 HC-L 18/36. Liebherr introduced this model earlier, during the second half of last year. More details can be found here.

Both the 440 HC-L and 620 HC-L are aimed to help tackle the rising challenges faced in building construction. Thanks to Load-Plus, the 440 HC-L offers an increase in jib head lifting capacity of up to 1.65 t (52%), while the 620 HC-L achieves an increase of up to 3.25 t (76%).

What’s more, the HC-L series is the first to make use of aramid guying for luffing jib cranes. This lightweight material reduces weight on the jib, which noticeably increases lifting capacity. Thus significant weight is saved compared to steel rope.