Liebherr 1188 EC-H 40 Fibre crane installed at Portsmouth Naval Base
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KBS Maritime has purchased the UK’s first Liebherr 1188 EC-H 40 Fibre tower crane on behalf of the Royal Navy. The crane will remain permanently at Portsmouth Naval Base, supporting lifting work as the site develops. Its specification includes corrosion protection for the maritime environment and Liebherr’s fibre rope technology. The crane can lift 40 tonnes at a 22-metre radius and 8.1 tonnes at 90 metres in four-fall operation.
Tower crane specified for a maritime environment
Liebherr worked with KBS Maritime to develop a crane specification suited to long-term operation at Portsmouth Naval Base, where equipment is exposed to harsh weather and corrosive conditions.
The crane has an ICP maritime-grade paint system. Its control cabinets are stainless steel, while the ladders, handrails and access platforms are galvanised to improve durability and limit maintenance requirements.
Fibre rope technology supports lifting and maintenance
The crane’s fibre rope is lighter to handle than conventional steel rope and offers approximately 40 percent higher peak capacities, according to Liebherr. Its corrosion-resistant construction was a particular advantage for the naval base installation, where reducing rope maintenance can help support equipment availability.
The crane’s rated capacity is 40 tonnes at a 22-metre radius. At its maximum radius of 90 metres, it can lift up to 8.1 tonnes in four-fall operation, allowing it to handle heavy components as well as loads that need to be positioned at extended reach.
Long-term project partnership
The crane was purchased by KBS Maritime on behalf of the Royal Navy and assembled at the naval base by Liebherr. The two companies worked together from the initial discussions and technical drawings through to installation and service support.
Simon Cook, Liebherr Great Britain’s Tower Cranes Divisional Manager, said the company’s service and support teams played a key role in delivering the project. The crane is intended to provide permanent lifting capacity as Portsmouth Naval Base expands.
About KBS Maritime
KBS Maritime is a joint venture between KBR and BAE Systems, established in 2021 to deliver infrastructure asset management and services. The company supports the development and operation of Portsmouth Naval Base, providing infrastructure and services intended to support the Royal Navy’s requirements. The Liebherr tower crane was purchased by KBS Maritime on the Navy’s behalf as part of the base’s long-term development.
View website: https://kbsmaritime.com/
About Liebherr
Liebherr develops and manufactures tower cranes for construction, industrial, infrastructure and specialist applications. Its range includes fast-erecting, top-slewing, luffing jib and special-purpose cranes. The company also provides project planning, crane services, parts support, maintenance and operator training.
Liebherr-Great Britain is responsible for sales and service of construction and associated equipment, as well as maritime and refrigeration products, across Great Britain and Ireland.
View website: https://www.liebherr.com/en-gb/p/652389-4214535
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Liebherr 1188 EC-H 40 Fibre crane being used for?
The crane will provide permanent lifting support at Portsmouth Naval Base, where it will support the site’s operations and development.
Who purchased the crane?
KBS Maritime purchased it on behalf of the Royal Navy.
What is the crane’s lifting capacity?
The crane can lift up to 40 tonnes at a 22-metre radius. In four-fall operation, it can lift up to 8.1 tonnes at a 90-metre radius.
How has the crane been protected against the maritime environment?
It has an ICP maritime-grade paint system, stainless steel control cabinets, and galvanised ladders, handrails and access platforms.
What is the advantage of the crane’s fibre rope?
Liebherr says its fibre rope is lighter to handle and offers approximately 40 percent higher peak capacities than conventional steel rope. Its corrosion-resistant construction also suits the naval base’s operating environment.
