Liebherr has launched its new 440 HC-L luffing jib crane, marking a significant evolution in construction technology. This latest addition builds upon the success of its predecessor, the 357 HC-L, and comes with notable advancements in lifting capacity, out-of-service positioning, and assembly efficiency. Available in two versions, the 440 HC-L 12/24 and the 18/36, this crane is designed to meet the demands of faster construction cycles and more complex site planning.
One of the standout features of the 440 HC-L is its enhanced lifting capacity, with the 18/36 model capable of hoisting up to 36 tonnes, an improvement from the previous 32-tonne maximum. It’s a substantial leap that underscores Liebherr’s commitment to innovation in crane technology, enabling operators to handle heavier loads with ease. Additionally, both versions of the crane now feature a taller tower height, thanks to the addition of an extra tower section compared to the previous model.
Another impressive characteristic of this new crane is its ability to operate in confined spaces. The 440 HC-L boasts an out-of-service position of just 10.7 metres and a minimum working radius of under four metres. This compact profile means the crane can be set up closer to buildings, boundaries, or even other cranes, offering greater flexibility on crowded job sites. This improved design makes it possible to accommodate additional cranes in tight construction zones, a crucial advantage for complex projects.
For the first time in a luffing jib crane, Liebherr has introduced aramid fibre guying, a lightweight yet highly durable material. This innovative use of aramid fibre significantly reduces the weight of the jib, thereby enhancing the lifting capacity. It’s a game-changer, as the lighter material means more of the crane’s load potential can be used for actual lifting rather than being consumed by the crane’s own weight. This aramid fibre guying system, previously proven in Liebherr’s other crane models, including crawler and maritime cranes, also makes the assembly and disassembly processes easier and faster.
Assembly efficiency has been a key focus in the design of the 440 HC-L. Liebherr has employed a plug-and-play configuration for the crane’s electronic components, housed in a single switchgear cabinet. This streamlined setup drastically reduces the time needed for on-site assembly. Further accelerating the process, the crane is pre-assembled at the factory, allowing for quicker unloading and setup upon delivery. The counter-jib ballast, made up of a single block, is another thoughtful addition that simplifies both the assembly and disassembly stages, requiring only nine transport units for the slewing section, even with a fully extended jib.
In terms of performance, the 440 HC-L doesn’t disappoint. It offers an increased maximum radius of 65 metres, while the jib head lifting capacity has surged by up to 52 percent. The jib itself can be extended in five-metre increments, allowing for versatile operation tailored to the specific needs of each project. With the Load Plus feature, the crane’s lifting performance can be boosted by up to 22 percent at the push of a button. This means, for instance, that with a 50-metre jib, the maximum jib head lifting capacity can rise from 7.5 tonnes to 9 tonnes.
The new crane also features impressive tower height capabilities. The free-standing height has been extended by up to 5.8 metres, and the maximum assembly height (free-standing) now reaches up to 76.4 metres, providing more flexibility in planning climbing steps. This enhanced height capacity is a substantial benefit, especially for high-rise construction projects.
To round off the suite of improvements, the 440 HC-L comes equipped with Liebherr’s trusted drives and the latest TC-OS control unit, ensuring intuitive and efficient crane operation. It’s clear that Liebherr has considered every detail to make the 440 HC-L a top choice for construction professionals who demand efficiency, power, and precision on their projects.
