A 79.4m x 29.52m barge (gross tonnage: 3,040t) was used to carry the two cranes, each weighing around 450t, to Antwerp. The cranes were carefully driven onto the barge in Rostock, and lashed into place. Calm conditions prevailed for the cranes’ four day journey.
Following its arrival at the oldest and main terminal within the Westerlund group on the left bank of the Scheldt river (it is also reputed to be the largest forest products terminal in the world) the quayside was prepared, the cranes unlashed and ramps placed between the barge and the quay. Finally the cranes were driven off the barge and onto the quay and were immediately ready for operation.
Westerlund provides a complete pulp and paper logistics and stevedoring service. The two latest cranes bring the number of Liebherr mobile harbour cranes purchased by the firm in the last seven years to 11. Both machines are able to lift a maximum of 104 tons, while the LHM 400 has a maximum outreach of 48 m and the LHM 500 has a maximum outreach of 51 m. The new cranes will be used mainly for general cargo and twin lift container operation.
