07.07.2025

First transshipment cranes

US based terminal operator Associated Terminals has taken delivery of two 105 tonne Liebherr CBG 500 E all electric transshipment cranes, marking the German manufacturer's first entry into the US inland waterway market.

The cranes - which are set to operate on hybrid powered barges on the Mississippi River - feature a 50 metre boom, and can handle 105 tonnes on the hook, or 90 tonnes with the bulk grab attachment, with a transfer performance of 2,000 tonnes of bulk product per hour. The crane includes a new 10 square metre cab which can be elevated to the top of the mast, for an ideal view of the load. The crane operator is assisted by the new, integrated ‘Master V’ crane control system. Additional counterweight options are available for specific barge mounting configurations.

(One of the units in operation
Power comes from an onboard diesel electric system enabling continuous autonomous river operation. The electric drive system incorporates Liebherr's LiCaTronic energy recovery technology, storing and reusing braking energy via supercapacitors.

Associated Terminals president Todd Fuller said: "These Liebherr cranes are more than just equipment. They represent our commitment to continuous improvement, environmental responsibility, and employing advanced technology in marine cargo handling. The level of innovation in these systems aligns perfectly with our long term strategy for operational excellence."

Tim Ladendorf, Liebherr maritime cranes global application manager added: "The CBG 500 E represent a new chapter in bulk cargo handling. This project demonstrates how our all-electric crane solutions can adapt to new markets and operational models, while supporting our partners in building a more sustainable and future ready logistics network."

Liebherr will provide commissioning and maintenance support for the cranes, with the deployment introducing the company’s flagship electric crane technology to the US market for the first time in the transshipment sector.