Liebherr’s 195 HC-LH hydraulic luffing jib crane is optimized for dense urban job sites with a minimum working radius of just 3 metres
With a minimal working radius, powerful hydraulic luffing system and high-performance drives, Liebherr’s 195 HC-LH hydraulic luffing jib crane sets new benchmarks for efficiency, precision and adaptability.
Introduced to North America earlier this year, the hydraulic luffing jib crane is designed specifically for dense metropolitan environments.
The crane combines Liebherr’s established luffing-jib proficiency with a powerful hydraulic system, enabling full luffing in under 90 seconds, exceptional load handling and flexibility for high-rise construction.
Engineered for urban sites
The 195 HC-LH is designed for construction sites where space is limited and operational precision is essential. With a working radius starting 3 metres, and an out-of-service position of 10 metres, the crane can be placed close to existing structures or positioned in highly confined areas without restricting site logistics.
Its compact counter jib radius and slim jib profile allow multiple cranes to operate safely and efficiently alongside one another. This ability is valuable in metropolitan areas, where high-rise projects must be completed alongside narrow streets and densely built environments.
A lift shaft installation with subsequent internal climbing is simplified using the 16 EC 240 tower system. In practical terms, this means that a smaller crane can be used on site rather than a larger machine that would need to be set up next to the building.
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Another option alongside the slim 16 EC 240 is the widely used 21 HC 290 tower system, which enables high hook heights and installation of the EasyUp 200 crane driver elevator. Both tower systems come prepared for climbing inside and outside buildings. Combining both systems together with a transition tower section makes it possible to achieve cost-efficient, high tower heights.
Despite its compact design, the 195 HC-LH delivers impressive performance figures, including a maximum load capacity of more than 12,000 kg in single-fall operation and 2,550 kg at its maximum radius. These capabilities make the crane suitable for a wide range of applications, from structural steel and precast concrete to mechanical equipment installation at significant height.
Transport and assembly
To successfully tackle the logistical constraints of major cities, the 195 HC-LH hydraulic luffing jib crane was designed for efficient transport and rapid assembly.
The crane requires a small number of truckloads to move between job sites, and the jib can be preassembled on the ground, including reeving, before being lifted in a single operation.
The hoist unit remains mounted on the jib during transport to reduce assembly steps and protect key components. As well, the slewing platform and central unit can be lifted as a complete assembly or mounted step by step, depending on the mobile crane capacity. These features significantly shorten the installation process, reduce the amount of work at height and minimize disruption in urban areas with heavy traffic.
In operation, the 195 HC-LH combines powerful hydraulics with refined load-handling performance. The hydraulic luffing system allows the jib to move from horizontal to steep luffing angles in less than 90 seconds while maintaining smooth and controlled motion even under load.
Liebherr’s high-performance hoist gears are available in two variations and deliver high rope drum capacities and fast hook speeds, enabling efficient handling cycles throughout all phases of construction.
For exceptionally heavy lifts that occur only once or infrequently, the crane offers a Load Plus function, increasing lifting capacity by up to 25 per cent with the touch of a button.
New tech
The hydraulic luffing jib crane is also equipped with Liebherr’s latest Tower Crane Operating System 2 (TC OS 2), a modern and intuitive control interface that allows operators to customize display settings and manage all crane functions quickly and accurately.
Inside the LiCAB cab, a new ergonomic layout and expanded field of vision create a comfortable and precise working environment. Together, these technological advances underline Liebherr’s expertise in providing cranes that are not only powerful but also user-friendly.
First impressions
The first 195 HC-LH was delivered to Morrow Equipment Company in Houston, Texas, last year. The crane was fully assembled on site to allow Morrow’s senior technicians to gain hands-on experience with the new model.
Liebherr specialists Aaron Malueg and Jan Weckenmann conducted an in-depth training program that covered assembly procedures, commissioning processes, operational modes, troubleshooting routines and preventative maintenance. This instructional approach ensured that participants not only understood the technical principles of the new crane but also became confident in applying them during everyday field operations. Throughout the week, technicians repeatedly highlighted the crane’s easy assembly, the efficiency of the hydraulic luffing system and the precision of the hoist and slewing movements.
The feedback from participants was uniformly positive, and the crane will remain fully assembled at Morrow’s Houston yard as a long-term training asset and demonstration unit.
With the introduction of the 195 HC-LH, Liebherr is bringing a powerful and highly adaptable luffing jib crane to the market, one that was engineered specifically for the challenges of dense cities and tall structures.
Its minimal footprint, fast hydraulic luffing, high lifting capacities and efficient transport concept sets a new benchmark for urban crane solutions. Combined with early positive feedback from technicians in the United States and a strong initial training program, the 195 HC-LH is well positioned to become a key player in North America’s rapidly evolving high-rise construction landscape.
