Liebherr LTC Crane Destroyed by Fire on A38 in Plymouth

30-Second Takeaway

A new Liebherr LTC mobile crane operated by Ainscough Crane Hire was destroyed by fire on the A38 in Plymouth on Monday, July 22. The crane is a total loss, though no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by Liebherr and Ainscough. Initial observations indicate the fire originated in the rear engine bay, highlighting ongoing risks associated with engine-compartment fires in mobile cranes, even within well-maintained fleets.

Incident Overview

On Monday, July 22, a Liebherr LTC mobile crane operated by Ainscough Crane Hire caught fire while travelling on the A38 in Plymouth, UK.

The crane was completely destroyed by the fire and has been confirmed as a total loss.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Emergency services attended the scene, and the incident caused disruption to traffic while the fire was brought under control.

Investigation Status

Both Liebherr and Ainscough Crane Hire have confirmed that the cause of the fire is under investigation.

While crane fires are not uncommon across the industry, no official conclusions have yet been released. It is anticipated that findings from the investigation may help inform preventative measures for similar equipment operating across the fleet and wider industry.

Observations From the Scene

Based on available images and video:

• Fire damage appears to be concentrated at the rear of the crane

• The damage pattern suggests the fire originated in the engine bay

• No evidence has been released indicating operator error or maintenance failure

At this stage, any link to fuel or oil leakage remains unconfirmed and should not be treated as a determined cause.

Fleet Context

Ainscough Crane Hire is the UK’s largest mobile crane rental provider and operates one of the most rigorously maintained fleets in the country. As such, lack of maintenance is not considered a likely factor without supporting evidence from the investigation.

This reinforces that even well-maintained, modern cranes can experience unexpected fire events.

Why Crane Fires Can Occur

Mobile crane fires frequently originate in the engine compartment due to:

• High operating temperatures

• Pressurized fuel, oil, and hydraulic systems

• Electrical faults or insulation failure

• Accumulated debris or combustible materials

Fire can escalate rapidly once ignition occurs, particularly while travelling or shortly after operation.

Industry Reminder

Crane fires can occur without warning, even on new machines and within high-maintenance fleets. When they do, outcomes are heavily influenced by early detection, rapid response, and fire containment systems.

The industry benefits when investigation findings are shared, helping others reduce similar risks.

Editorial Note

Crane Hub Global reports on crane incidents to support industry learning and prevention. This article is based on confirmed information available at the time of publication. No conclusions should be drawn until official findings are released.

How Incidents Like This Can Be Prevented

Engine Bay Inspection Discipline

Routine inspection of hoses, fittings, wiring looms, and shielding can help identify early signs of wear, chafing, or leakage.

Fire Detection and Suppression Systems

Automatic fire detection and suppression systems in engine compartments can significantly reduce damage and escalation when fires ignite.

Thermal Monitoring

Monitoring for abnormal heat buildup, particularly after travel or heavy operation, can provide early warning signs.

Cleanliness and Housekeeping

Regular cleaning of engine bays helps prevent buildup of oil residue, dust, and debris that can act as ignition fuel.

Operator Awareness and Training

Operators trained to recognize early fire indicators smells, smoke, alarms can respond faster, limiting damage.