Four Liebherr Luffing Jib Cranes Power Spectacular Triangle Tower Construction in Paris
- Meagan Wood
- Jan 8
- 3 min read
30 Second Takeaway
Four Liebherr 280 HC-L luffing jib cranes are playing a central role in the construction of the landmark Triangle building in Paris, supporting one of Europe’s most ambitious urban high-rise projects. Supplied through HEXAGone Services and deployed by construction group BESIX, the cranes combine high lifting capacity, minimal out-of-service radius, and advanced climbing technology, making them ideally suited to the project’s confined city-centre site and distinctive triangular geometry.
Liebherr Cranes at the Heart of a Paris Landmark
In the centre of the French capital, one of Europe’s most striking construction projects—the Triangle building is currently taking shape. For this complex urban development, French crane specialist HEXAGone Services and international construction group BESIX are relying on Liebherr tower crane technology.
A total of four Liebherr 280 HC-L luffing jib cranes are operating on site, supporting the construction of the pyramid-shaped structure in one of Paris’s most space-constrained environments.
Crane Configuration Tailored to Confined Urban Conditions
Two of the four Liebherr 280 HC-L 12/24 cranes are mounted on portal bases and will climb externally along the building as construction progresses—an ideal solution for the Triangle’s unique geometry and limited ground space.
These cranes will reach impressive hook heights of:
187 metres
152 metres
The remaining two Liebherr 280 HC-L 16/28 cranes are mounted on foundation anchors, reaching tower heights of:
85.5 metres
95.7 metres
This mixed crane configuration provides maximum flexibility while maintaining safety and efficiency throughout the build.
Three Corners for a Visionary Project
With its distinctive triangular form, the Triangle building is set to become a defining feature of the Paris skyline. The structure will measure 180 metres in length and just 35 metres in width, placing highly specific demands on crane performance and positioning.
The Liebherr 280 HC-L luffing jib cranes are particularly well suited to these conditions, offering:
Maximum lifting capacity of 28 tonnes
Minimal slewing radius of just 7.5 metres
Compact out-of-service position
Efficient external climbing technology
In dense urban environments such as Paris, the reduced slewing radius and minimal jib overhang are critical advantages for safe and compliant crane operation.
Architecture Meets Functionality
Designed by the renowned architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron, the Triangle project will become a vibrant mixed-use destination, incorporating:
A hotel
Local retail outlets
A cultural centre
A nursery
A health centre
Office and co-working spaces
In addition to its architectural ambition, the project contributes to Paris’s environmental transition, integrating energy-efficient systems, extensive use of renewable energy, and a strong focus on low-carbon mobility.
Collaboration Driving a Complex High-Rise Build
The Triangle project stands out not only for its design, but also for the technical challenges involved in its construction. The collaboration between HEXAGone Services (a French subsidiary of the VAN DER SPEK Group), BESIX, and Liebherr highlights how modern luffing jib crane solutions can be seamlessly integrated into complex, high-rise urban projects.
The deployment of four Liebherr 280 HC-L cranes is making a decisive contribution to the safe and efficient delivery of one of Europe’s most ambitious construction developments.
About Liebherr Tower Cranes
Liebherr is a global leader in the design and manufacture of tower cranes, offering a comprehensive portfolio of luffing jib, flat-top, and self-erecting cranes. The 280 HC-L series is specifically engineered for large-scale urban projects, combining high lifting capacity with compact dimensions and advanced climbing systems.
🔗 Website: https://www.liebherr.com
About BESIX
BESIX Group is an international construction group active in buildings, infrastructure, and complex engineering projects worldwide. The company is known for delivering large-scale, architecturally ambitious developments in challenging urban environments.
🔗 Website: https://www.besix.com
About HEXAGone Services
HEXAGone Services, a subsidiary of the VAN DER SPEK Group, is a specialist provider of tower crane solutions in France, delivering sales, rental, and technical expertise for complex construction projects.
🔗 Website: https://www.vanderspek.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cranes are being used on the Triangle project?
A total of four Liebherr 280 HC-L luffing jib cranes are operating on site.
Why were luffing jib cranes selected?
Their minimal slewing radius, compact out-of-service position, and high lifting capacity make them ideal for dense urban environments.
What is unique about the crane setup?
Two cranes are mounted on portal bases and climb externally along the building, while two are installed on foundation anchors.
Who designed the Triangle building?
The building was designed by Herzog & de Meuron.
What type of building is Triangle?
Triangle is a mixed-use high-rise, including hospitality, retail, cultural, healthcare, and office spaces.
