XCMG completes first unit of record 14,000-tonne ring crane

The machine is built as a modular system of two main units working in tandem. The first unit has now completed final assembly and is able to carry out lifting operations on its own. With both units integrated, the crane will offer a maximum capacity of 14,000 tonnes and a maximum load moment of 700,000 tonne-metres – figures that would put it well beyond any ring crane currently in service.

Electric direct drive

Rather than the diesel-hydraulic arrangements common on the largest lifting equipment, the ring crane uses an electric direct-drive system that converts electric power straight into motion. According to XCMG, this cuts energy consumption by more than 30 per cent and raises operating efficiency by around 20 per cent, while reducing fuel costs and carbon emissions on site.

“This crane is more than an incremental improvement; it represents a transformative leap for the global heavy-lifting industry. Our partnership with Sinopec has created a new integrated model spanning R&D, manufacturing and application, setting an industry benchmark for independent innovation and engineering application of major technical equipment.”

— Yang Dongsheng, chairman, XCMG Group and XCMG Machinery

Aimed at nuclear and energy work

The crane is aimed squarely at the energy sector, where plant modules keep growing in size and weight. In conventional energy construction it is intended to lift large towers and vessels as complete units, doing away with sectional lifting and the assembly and pressure-testing work that comes with it.

Nuclear power is the headline application. XCMG says the crane can handle plant modules and major equipment for two nuclear islands from a single crane position and with a single boom configuration – a capability the manufacturer describes as a world first. For offshore wind, the hook height and capacity are intended to support the installation of the latest generation of larger turbines.

Two units, one benchmark

The joint development with Sinopec Heavy Lifting & Transportation ties the crane directly to one of China’s largest industrial constructors, giving the project a clear route from the factory to major petrochemical and power jobsites.

“XCMG will continue to advance the independent development of ultra-large engineering equipment, bring proven, reliable solutions to a wider range of engineering applications, and provide customers worldwide with safer, more efficient and energy-saving construction solutions,” Yang added.