Port of Tilbury Expands Operations with Investment in LHM 550 Mobile Harbour Crane
The Port of Tilbury, part of the Forth Ports group, is located on the iconic River Thames and serves as the UK’s primary hub for the import and export of goods. Handling 16 million tonnes annually, it is the largest port on the river. To support its ongoing expansion and to bolster operational capabilities, the Port has recently added an LHM 550 mobile harbour crane to its fleet.
This state-of-the-art crane, delivered fully assembled from Liebherr-MCCtec in Rostock, Germany, on the heavy-load vessel MV Meri, is set to enhance the Port’s high-volume cargo operations. With an impressive reach of 54 metres and a 144-tonne lifting capacity, the LHM 550 is engineered for optimal throughput. The unloading process was facilitated by an LH 150 Port Litronic material handler, which has been operational at Tilbury since 2023.
The crane has been equipped with advanced technology to aid future projects, including an over-pressure system designed to handle specific materials. Notably, it will be used in handling granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS)—a low-carbon alternative to traditional cement—at Aggregate Industries’ new cement grinding manufacturing facility and import terminal. This facility, set to become operational in 2026, will benefit from the crane’s ability to safely and efficiently unload GBFS from vessels directly into plant hoppers, while protecting the crane’s mechanics from the material’s abrasive properties.
To ensure durability and reduce maintenance, the LHM 550 features a robust corrosion-resistant paint finish, similar to those used on offshore and ship cranes, which exceeds industry standards.
As part of Forth Ports’ commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2042, the LHM 550 incorporates several green technologies. The crane is equipped with the LieGEN energy recovery system, which captures and reuses energy to improve efficiency and reduce fuel consumption. Additionally, the crane meets the strictest emissions standards with its latest engine technology and can operate on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel, further supporting the Port’s sustainability goals. Designed to be electric-ready, the crane can be easily connected to an electrical power supply in the future, ensuring a smooth transition to zero-emission operations.
Paul Dale, Chief Operating Officer of Forth Ports, expressed: “We have set ambitious net-zero targets and are committed to investing in greener technologies to ensure sustainable operations. The new LHM 550 crane will play a crucial role in our expanding operations at Tilbury, supporting our bulks and heavy-lift activities across the port.”
Robert Alexander, Sales Manager at Liebherr Great Britain, commented: “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the Port of Tilbury. The addition of the LHM 550 mobile harbour crane is a significant milestone in our long-standing collaboration. With its advanced green technologies and forward-thinking design, this crane aligns with Forth Ports’ vision for growth and sustainability.”
With this new investment, Forth Ports continues to position itself at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the maritime industry, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing both operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.
