Liebherr has unveiled its new electric crawler crane, the LR 1160.1 unplugged, which features a load capacity of 160 t. This battery-operated machine delivers zero emissions and is extremely quiet, making it ideal for use in noise-sensitive areas.

The LR 1160.1 unplugged is manufactured at the Liebherr facility in Nenzing, Austria. The machine’s electro-hydraulic drive has the same performance specifications as the conventional version, according to the manufacturer. Both versions are operated in the same way, so it is especially convenient for the operators if they often have to switch between machines.

In idling mode, the sound pressure level of three unplugged cranes at a distance of 16 m is equivalent to that of a normal conversation on the jobsite at a distance of 1 m. This corresponds to a value of only 60 dB(A), explained Liebherr. If it is taken into account that a crawler crane is in idling mode for 60% of the time on the jobsite, such a low noise level is an “advantage with great resonance.”

The LR 1160.1 unplugged can be operated with or without cable, hence unplugged. The battery capacity is designed for eight hours of lifting operation. The crane is able to work without restrictions while plugged into a conventional electric supply with 63 A, or charged within 4.5 hours. Using a 125-A supply, the battery can be fast-charged in only 2.5 hours.

The Gradient Travel Aid on the LR 1160.1 unplugged is designed for safe negotiation of slopes and inclines. The crane’s 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 at all times. When necessary, the boom angle can be altered so that the machine remains in the safe area.

The Ground Pressure Visualisation system calculates the actual ground pressure of the machine in real time, and compares it with the specified safety limits of the relevant jobsite. This means the operator is constantly aware of whether the machine is situated in, or is approaching, a critical area.

When erecting or lowering the boom, the Boom Up-and-Down Assistant system indicates the approach to the tipping border and automatically stops operation before the operator unintentionally enters an unsafe zone.

The first three LR 1160.1 unplugged cranes have been delivered to the UK, revealed Liebherr. The customer, Select Plant Hire Company Ltd, is pursuing the goal of operating more zero-emission construction sites and even plans to invest further in the LR 1160.1 unplugged this year. The company already used the Liebherr LR 1250.1 unplugged, which was launched at the end of 2020.

With the unplugged series, the potential of crawler cranes to function optimally as an electric version has become reality, said Liebherr. It enables the best possible combination of customer benefit, environmental compatibility and efficiency.