Liebherr Boosts Middle East Cargo Handling

Recent orders for Liebherr Mobile Harbor Cranes (LHM) from the Middle East include two LHMs and the first LiSIM LHM550 unit for the region, paving the way for state-of-the-art crane operator training. Additionally, one Liebherr Reachstacker has been delivered to the region.

Traditionally, the Middle East/India/Africa region (MIA) has represented a very important market for Liebherr Mobile Harbor Cranes (LHM). In 2013 alone, Liebherr counted more than 40 mobile harbor crane sales. The company has now delivered well over 300 LHMs to MIA in total.

“We had a very good year,” said Gordon Clark, Divisional Manager in Dubai. “We sold new units to the UAE, Iraq and other countries in the Middle East, and not just LHMs.”

A first for the region was the order for the new LiSIM mobile harbor crane simulator for Saqr Port in Ras Al Kaimah, United Arab Emirates. Launched in 2013, Liebherr’s modern training solution is based on original software and hardware allowing for cost-effective and highly immersive crane operator training. A major benefit of simulator training is the ability to simulate harsh environmental conditions when required. This allows both experienced operators and trainees to gain valuable experience operating under challenging conditions in a safe virtual environment. The resulting increase in operator skills allows for safe and productive crane operation in the real world and naturally boosts productivity. Saqr Port has opted for the classroom solution which can be easily integrated into existing training centers.

Additionally, Saqr Port has ordered an LHM 550, enforcing their existing mobile harbor crane fleet. The new crane is equipped with Liebherr’s unique Pactronic system for highly efficient bulk handling. Awarded with the State Prize Clean Technology Austria 2012, Pactronic hydraulic hybrid drive system for cranes is the first to achieve increased handling performance with reduced fuel consumption. By adding an accumulator as a secondary energy source instead of a bigger or additional prime mover, Pactronic is regenerating the reverse power while lowering the load. The stored energy is transferred back to the system when the crane requires peak power during hoisting. In terms of turnover capacity, that means a plus of up to 30% compared to a conventional machine with equal power rating of the primary energy source. In addition, Pactronic leads to a reduction of fuel/energy consumption (liter/ton) as well as CO2 and exhaust emissions in the range of 30% depending on the operation. The hybrid drive system is virtually maintenance free as it just needs visible inspection every 10 years. 100% recyclability as well as less noise exposure are additional eco-friendly benefits of this advanced system. The new LHM 550 for Saqr Port is especially configured for highly efficient bulk handling. Due to Liebherr’s flexible mobile harbor crane approach, the LHMs can also be used for container handling and general cargo operation if necessary - just by an easy exchange of the lifting attachment.

Due to the new LHM 550, SaqrPort will soon operate a fleet of six Liebherr Mobile Harbor Cranes. The forward-looking combination of advanced simulator-based training and high-speed machines has potential to significantly improve their production figures. Moreover, thanks to this new investment, Saqr Port will strengthen its top position in the Middle East bulk market. The new crane and simulator will be commissioned in the first quarter of 2014.

To accelerate the revitalization of Port of Maqal in Iraq, NAWAH Port Management has invested in state-of-the-art cargo handling equipment. Basra’s urban port will therefore benefit from a versatile LHM 180 unit and one Liebherr Reachstacker, type LRS 645. Due to their new Liebherr Mobile Harbor Crane, NAWAH Port Management has added valuable services to their portfolio. The LHM 180 is designed for efficient container handling as well as for safe and reliable general cargo operation, allowing for lifts as heavy as 64 tons. Moreover, the new LRS 645 unit provides advanced technology for smooth and efficient container handling in Port of Maqal. Both machines have started operation in summer 2013. "The LHM 180 and reachstacker from Liebherr are working very well in Basra, and we also work closely with their local office in Jebel Ali for service and spares. Our offices are so close that we even pop around for coffees occasionally," said Justin McCauley, Business Development Coordinator for NAWAH.

Liebherr said it is optimistic that the positive trend in the MIA region will continue.

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