Liebherr L series cranes updated

The revision of the L series sees the crane size specified in metre tonnes, with immediate effect. To reflect this Liebherr has changed the cranes’ nomenclature and so they are now known as the 25 L and 33 L.

The updated L cranes are being launched on the market with substantial changes to the structural steelwork, an improved hydraulic system and a new modular drive system. Another new feature is a standardised radio remote control for all new Liebherr bottom-slewing cranes. Liebherr explains that the standardised operating concept makes it easier to switch between the L and K series, which increases flexibility and reduces the amount of training required.

The L series fast-erecting cranes are the first machines of their type to feature the fifth generation of Liebherr’s own control hardware, Liebherr Control 5. This control system is already being used by a number of other Liebherr Group construction machines, including mobile excavators, dumpers, deep foundation equipment, mobile harbour cranes, and wheel loaders. The control system is designed to be robust and durable to meet the demands of such a diverse range of uses. Liebherr says that strong vertical integration within the Liebherr Group ensures that spare parts are available long term.

Software-wise, the cranes are fitted with the second generation of the Tower Crane OS (Tower Crane Operating System 2). This means that the cranes feature a new user interface, which top-slewing cranes from the EC-B series began using in 2021.

Liebherr says that the new control system is also an important step towards the cranes' future viability as it opens the door to new assistance systems, and the software architecture itself is designed for future expansion. Software updates are also easy, it adds. Assistance systems that are possible with the new control system are designed to further increase safety and efficiency around operations and processes on site.

All L series models come equipped with the Sway Control assistance system for load sway damping. The system detects movements in the direction of slewing and trolley travel that can cause loads to sway. The intelligent load sway damping system actively counteracts and corrects such movements. This can be particularly helpful for inexperienced users or those who only occasionally operate a crane, explains Liebherr.

“The L series marks the start of a new development generation and sets the standard for future products,” says Clemens Maier, product manager at Liebherr-Werk Biberach. “Nothing has changed in terms of the cranes’ compact dimensions and powerful performance. The new Liebherr control system provides us with new, innovative crane operator assistance systems and is optimally designed for current and future requirements.”

The cranes offer the fine positioning mode Micromove, designed for careful and precise positioning of loads. This can help protect prefabricated parts being positioned as well as the surrounding structure. In addition to this, the Speed2Lift function is designed to save time when it comes to load handling, as it always automatically selects the maximum speed possible with each load.

The jib lengths of the overhauled cranes remain unchanged: 25 or 27 metres for the 25 L and 30 metres for the 33 L. The usual ballast and transport axle options are also available for the L series. Liebherr believes that the cranes’ intelligent assistance systems, quick assembly and easy handling coupled with a compact footprint make them particularly suitable choice for construction firms, crane rental businesses, and timber frame companies.