Equipment manufacturer Liebherr has laid the flange of the first all-electric heavy lift crane that it is constructing for SAL Heavy Lift’s newbuild Orca-class series.
The newbuilding programme, jointly initiated with SAL Heavy Lift’s partner Jumbo Shipping, includes six 14,600 dwt multipurpose heavy lift vessels, plus two options. The ships will start to be delivered mid-year 2024 and each will feature two 800-tonne Liebherr cranes: the LS 800 E.
The flange laying ceremony for the first of the cranes took place in Rostock, Germany. The electric-drive concept of the crane, Liebherr said, increases energy efficiency and minimises CO₂ emissions.
One of the standout features of the electric crane is its power-saving capabilities, achieved through active communication between the crane, power electronics, and switch cabinets. By constantly optimising energy usage, this system maximises efficiency while minimising power consumption.
“We are proud to equip the Orca fleet with our LS 800 E units,” said Robert Pitschmann, global application manager, heavy lift offshore and ship cranes at Liebherr MCCtec Rostock. “With this all-electric heavy lift ship crane, we set sail towards a sustainable future, where advanced technology and environmental consciousness go hand in hand.”
