Liebherr LR 1600/2

The Liebherr LR 1600/2-W is a high-performance 600-ton class crawler crane, developed as a specialized variant of the standard LR 1600/2, with a narrow-track chassis to improve transportability on wind farm access roads. The “W” in its name stands for “Wind,” reflecting its primary use in wind turbine erection, where cranes must navigate tight spaces while maintaining strong lifting capacities.

To accommodate the increasing heights of modern wind turbines, the LR 1600/2-W is equipped with a 138-meter (453-foot) main boom, which can be extended to 156 meters (512 feet) with a fixed jib. In its tallest configuration, with a luffing jib and derrick system, the crane reaches an impressive 204 meters (669 feet), making it ideal for lifting heavy turbine nacelles and rotor blades to extreme heights. The crane is designed to lift large wind turbine components, including nacelles weighing over 100 tons, with stability and precision.

Unlike conventional crawler cranes, the LR 1600/2-W features a narrow 5.8-meter-wide (19-foot) crawler track, allowing it to travel on narrow paths often found at wind farms. Since a narrower base can affect stability, Liebherr designed additional counterweight support and lateral outriggers, ensuring safe operation without compromising lifting performance. The crane also integrates Liebherr’s VarioTray and V-frame counterweight systems, enabling efficient counterweight adjustments during lifts.

The hydraulic winch system provides high-speed lifting and controlled load handling, while the slewing system allows for smooth 360-degree rotation, ensuring precise load positioning in confined work areas. Liebherr’s LICCON (Liebherr Computed Control) system offers real-time load monitoring, automated safety features, and remote diagnostics, helping operators manage lifts efficiently.

Inside the operator’s cab, the LR 1600/2-W provides climate control, an adjustable seat, touchscreen displays, and intuitive joystick controls, ensuring operator comfort and easy maneuverability. The crane’s modular design enables easy transport, reducing assembly time and project costs.

With its unique narrow-track chassis, high lifting capacities, and specialized wind energy design, the Liebherr LR 1600/2-W is one of the most effective crawler cranes for wind turbine installation, offering efficiency, precision, and reliability in complex lifting environments.