The Liebherr LHM 280 mobile harbour crane serves a growing trend for electrification to reduce carbon emissions.
Overall, Konecranes designs its MHCs with
a high classification and strong lifting capacity curves, which it says provides its customers with robust, reliable and long-lasting cargo handling equipment. When it comes to breakbulk operations, a key buying decision is versatility. Konecranes’ MHCs are designed to be versatile cargo handling cranes that can handle any kind of cargo from container, general and project cargo up to bulk materials. “What we’ve seen is that customers appreciate this flexibility as they can be flexible too in their business,” adds Vennemann. A good example of this need for flexibility
is a recent order from the Fratelli Fazio Group. It is investing in a Konecranes Gottwald ESP.9 MHC, which is the first Generation 6 crane with 200t of lifting capacity to be delivered to Italy. Konecranes is due to install the machine at Sicily’s Port of Augusta soon. The Port of Augusta is a key entry point
into the EU’s TEN-T core network of strategic transport corridors. It has a deep harbour, accommodating vessels of all sizes. For many decades, Fratelli Fazio Group
operated an earlier-generation Konecranes Gottwald MHC at the port. The new 200t capacity crane – the heaviest lifter in Konecranes’ MHC portfolio – will now increase their handling capacity of heavy general cargo, including project loads and wind power generators, as well their container handling. The crane is equipped with external power supply to be electrified once the local infrastructure is set up. Two onboard
diesel generator sets allow for full unplugged operation and redundancy. The crane comes with Konecranes TRUCONNECT for remote monitoring, giving the Fratelli Fazio Group real-time data to support operations and predictive maintenance. Compliance with Italy’s latest standards for sustainability and digitalisation makes the investment eligible for government incentives.
With its heavy lifting capacity and strong digital capabilities, the new crane supports high performance daily operations and long- term development. The investment reflects Fratelli Fazio Group’s ambition to expand its port operations with equipment trusted by terminal operators around the world. In addition, Liebherr Maritime Cranes sees
breakbulk handling evolving in response to environmental, operational and technological pressures. “One major trend is the shift towards electrification and alternative drive systems, as ports aim to reduce emissions and comply with stricter regulations,” it says. A recent example is Saga Fjordbase, Norway’s largest supply base with around 2,000 vessel calls annually. Saga Fjordbase has ordered a Liebherr LHM 280 mobile harbour crane, with delivery expected during the first quarter of 2026. The crane is tailored for electric operation and includes a rotator for versatile cargo handling. With a weather-protected staircase to the tower cabin and a reactive power compensation unit, the crane is engineered for both operator comfort and grid efficiency.
Liebherr says that the LHM 280 reflects a
growing trend among ports to align equipment choices with long-term operational needs. The crane’s electric drive system, coupled with an 84t winch and 40m outreach, significantly reduces local emissions, aligning with the port’s environmental goals. A standout feature is the integrated reactive power compensation unit, which optimises energy use and minimises strain on the local grid. It works by adding or absorbing reactive power to balance the electricity in a system, which helps keep voltage stable and reduces the extra power the grid has to supply – this makes energy use more efficient and lowers strain on the local grid by improving power quality and reducing energy losses. The LHM 280 will be deployed to handle supply chain operations for offshore platforms, where reliability and turnaround time are paramount. The crane’s rotator adds flexibility for complex lifting tasks, while its electric configuration supports the port’s broader electrification efforts. The base has also reduced average quay turnaround time by 30% through the use of custom logistics software – an efficiency gain that complements the crane’s rapid handling capabilities. At the same time, Liebherr’s customers
are seeking greater efficiency and safety. This includes interest in cranes with automated load monitoring, remote operation and collision avoidance systems. Another key development is the demand for intelligent equipment that integrates with terminal systems and
www.hoistmagazine.com | August 2025 | vii
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