Schweri takes first Liebherr with 300-tonne LTM 1300-6.4

The LTM 1300-6.4 is now the most powerful crane in the Schweri fleet, lifting the German rental company into the 300-tonne class for the first time. For a firm whose crane fleet runs to 13 machines between 30 and 300 tonnes capacity, the six-axle crane opens up work that was previously beyond reach.

“For us, the LTM 1300-6.4 is the logical addition to our fleet. With its lifting capacity and 90-metre telescopic boom, we can now handle jobs that were previously out of our reach. Ultimately, it was the complete package that won us over: it is the right crane to replace a 250-tonne model, its technical features and the comprehensive support provided by Liebherr.”

— Leonhard Zerni, managing partner, Schweri Autokranbetriebe

Flexible on tight sites

Zerni singled out the VarioBase variable outrigger system and VarioBallast adjustable ballast radius as decisive features. Both earn their keep on sites where there is little room for outriggers and counterweight – a frequent reality in the company’s home market of North Rhine-Westphalia. The crane also runs Liebherr’s current LICCON3 control system.

Schweri expects to put the new machine to work principally on repowering wind turbines, erecting and dismantling tower cranes and setting precast concrete elements, responding to the steadily growing component sizes in all three markets.

First lift in Dormagen

The crane’s first job was lined up before it even left the factory. At a residential construction site in Dormagen, the LTM 1300-6.4 is installing precast concrete elements, with long-serving operator Martin Schönwaßer at the controls. Schönwaßer was involved in choosing the new flagship himself.

“It’s something special to take charge of the flagship of our own fleet. The long telescopic boom and the modern assistance systems, in particular, help us carry out even demanding lifting operations efficiently and flexibly.”

— Martin Schönwaßer, crane operator, Schweri Autokranbetriebe

More than 40 years in lifting

Schweri Autokranbetriebe GmbH & Co. KG has been in business for over four decades and employs 25 people. Alongside its 13-strong crane fleet, the company hires out more than 70 aerial work platforms and telehandlers.