Liebherr MK 80

The Liebherr MK 80 was developed to sit between the smaller MK 63 class and the larger MK 88, offering increased reach and hook height while retaining compact dimensions and excellent mobility. Introduced in the mid-2000s, the MK 80 was aimed primarily at city-center projects, residential developments, and refurbishment works where space is limited and rapid crane deployment is essential. Built on a four-axle carrier, the crane has a total weight of approximately 49.5 tonnes and can be transported on public roads without complex logistics, making it well suited for frequent site changes.

The crane is equipped with a lattice jib with a maximum length of 42.0 metres. In horizontal configuration, the MK 80 offers a working radius of up to 42 metres, with a rated load of approximately 1,900 kg at the jib head when fitted with 2.5 tonnes of additional ballast. At shorter radii, the crane reaches its maximum lifting capacity of 8,000 kg. The jib can also be set to a steep angle of 30°, significantly increasing hook height and improving lifting performance closer to the tower. In this elevated jib position, the crane achieves hook heights of up to approximately 48 metres, making it suitable for mid-rise buildings and projects with limited ground space.

The MK 80 features a telescopic lattice tower that supports fully automatic erection. The entire setup process is designed for one-man operation and is carried out at the push of a button, following a very tight assembly curve that requires minimal rear clearance. This allows the crane to be erected in confined courtyards or narrow streets where conventional tower crane assembly would be impractical. Once erected, the crane can remain standing when out of service without dismantling, improving efficiency on projects with intermittent lifting requirements.

All crane working motions on the MK 80 are electrically driven using frequency-controlled motors. The hoist mechanism provides smooth, stepless lifting and lowering with precise load control, while trolley travel along the jib is also frequency-controlled for efficient material handling across the working radius. Slewing is electrically driven and stepless, delivering smooth rotation and stable load behavior, supported by electronic wind load monitoring. The crane is approved for operation up to wind speeds of approximately 6.5 Beaufort, reflecting its intended use in urban environments.

The four-point outrigger system is fully hydraulic, with both horizontal and vertical extension and automatic leveling. Electronic inclination monitoring assists the operator during setup and operation. The relatively compact outrigger footprint allows the MK 80 to work effectively on restricted sites while still providing sufficient stability for its load class. Thanks to its balanced design, the crane offers predictable handling and stable performance throughout its working range.

The carrier is diesel powered for road travel and site maneuvering, while crane operations are supplied by onboard electrical systems. This hybrid concept allows the MK 80 to combine the mobility of a road-going crane with the fine control and quiet operation of an electrically driven superstructure. An external power connection is available, enabling quieter, low-emission operation when site power is provided.

An optional elevating operator’s cab is available, designed as a lift cabin that can be adjusted vertically along the tower. This allows the operator to maintain optimal visibility of the load and working area at all times, enhancing safety and productivity on congested sites.

Overall, the Liebherr MK 80 is best described as a well-balanced mobile construction crane that delivers increased reach and hook height compared to smaller MK models, while remaining compact, agile, and quick to deploy. Its combination of automatic erection, precise electric crane motions, and practical transport characteristics makes it a strong choice for urban construction projects where flexibility, speed, and efficient use of space are critical. The specifications and performance data referenced are based on the manufacturer’s technical documentation.