Global demand for lifting solutions to handle larger and heavier components is on the rise. Particularly as energy infrastructure grows, the requirements for transporting and installing components used in offshore wind farms and power stations are becoming increasingly complex. To address these challenges, South Korean company Hanchang Heavy Equipment has expanded its fleet to include a Liebherr LR 12500-1.0 crawler crane, strengthening its capacity for demanding large-scale projects.

The LR 12500-1.0 is part of Liebherr’s crawler crane portfolio, positioned between the LR 11350 and LR 13000 models. With a maximum lifting capacity of 2,500 t, the crane has been specifically developed for large-scale projects in the energy, petrochemical and heavy industry sectors.

A key feature of the LR 12500-1.0 is the HighPerformanceBoom, a wide lattice boom that enables high lifting capacities. It is optimally integrated into the slewing platform, made possible by a special front section that can be transported on a 4-m-wide flatbed trailer.

The slewing platform is complemented by a 3.5-m-wide rear section, into which the two drive units are integrated. Two Liebherr six-cylinder in-line engines deliver a total output of 800 kW. To increase crane availability, the engines are designed with redundancy. The two main hoists are also located on the rear section.

The 10-m-long sections of the HighPerformanceBoom are reduced to a cost-effective transport size using an advanced mechanism. A separate device stabilises the lattice section during the assembly process on site. The 25-t ballast plates are the same size of a 20-ft container, allowing for economical transport, and can be loaded using a spreader. Most components are designed for a maximum transport width of 3.5 m, facilitating the crane’s worldwide deployment.

Thanks to various boom configurations, the LR 12500-1.0 can be flexibly adapted to different project requirements. The maximum main boom length is 162 m. With a 100-m-long main boom and a 108-m-long luffing jib, the crane achieves working heights of around 200 m. Furthermore, with its vessel-lifter configuration, it is also suitable for lifting and positioning large process plant components in petrochemical plants.

Offshore wind project trial

Shortly after delivery, the LR 12500-1.0 is being deployed at an offshore wind farm construction site operated by SK Ocean Plant in South Korea. There, it is responsible for assembling jacket substructures, which serve as foundations for offshore wind turbines. Together with an LR 11350-P1800, the heavy-lift crane lifts and positions the large steel structures. With a 126-m-long main boom, derrick system and floating counterweight, the LR 12500-1.0 enables the safe and efficient handling of large components, even in confined workspaces.

“Thanks to its high performance and precision, the Liebherr crane is ideally suited for demanding large-scale projects. Furthermore, the expert technical support and reliable supply of spare parts provided by Liebherr are important advantages for us,” said a representative from Hanchang Heavy Equipment.

Hanchang Heavy Equipment is one of South Korea’s leading providers of heavy-duty cranes and lifting services. The company operates in key industries such as shipbuilding, steel, petrochemicals, plant engineering, construction and wind energy.