The terminal operator has put the rail-mounted portal slewing crane, the first of its kind in Germany, in the Port of Brake, where it will be used for handling dry bulk and general cargo.

The LPS 600 features a 61-metre boom, a motorised grab control, an e-drive, and video monitoring at the portal.

The crane has an extra-large cable drum, making it possible to move 650 metres in one direction. A curve-going chassis with various pivot points has also been installed so that the machinery can travel on winding roads. Special seals on the wheels serve as heightened flood protection.

Under ideal conditions, up to 1,000 tonnes of dry bulk can be handled per hour. The use of a largely closed grab reduces dusting when handling goods such as grain and animal feed. The crane can also be used to take care of general cargoes and allows for direct ship-to-ship handling.

"In addition, the new cab of the LPS 600 improves operator comfort and safety and reflects the company’s commitment to social responsibility," the manufacturer underlined in a press brief.

"Our investment in the LPS 600 will significantly improve our handling performance for dry bulk materials such as grain, feed, scrap, minerals, and for general cargo such as iron and steel, project cargo, wind turbines, wood, and pulp. The aim is to ensure smoother and more efficient operation and ultimately to increase throughput. We are confident that this crane will not only meet our current requirements, but will also support our future growth and expansion plans while meeting our sustainability goals. Liebherr’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction is evident in every aspect of this project," commented Jens Ripken, Managing Director of J. MÜLLER Weser.

The company's capacity in Brake is around 1.2 million tonnes, including up to 600kt of bulk goods in silos and warehouses. J. MÜLLER Weser has the largest continuous silo facility in Europe and can unload 20kt/day.

Photo: Liebherr Maritime Cranes Rostock