Compact Drilling Rig Extends Deep Foundation Capabilities

Liebherr introduces the LB 35.1 drilling rig with extended drilling depth, higher engine output and automated assistance systems for deep foundation construction.  www.liebherr.com The LB 35.1 drilling rig from Liebherr expands the capabilities of compact machines used in deep foundation engineering. The new model combines increased drilling depth, higher engine power and automation features designed to improve operational efficiency in pile construction and ground engineering projects. Design for Deep Foundation Applications The LB 35.1 drilling rig has been developed for multiple drilling techniques used in deep foundation construction, including Kelly drilling, continuous flight auger (CFA) drilling, and double rotary drilling. These methods are widely applied in infrastructure, building foundations, and bridge construction where deep piles are required to transfer loads to stable soil layers. A key design change is the integration of a lattice boom extension, which increases the maximum drilling depth when using full or partial displacement equipment. The maximum depth reaches 37.5 m (123 ft), representing an increase of 6 m compared with the previous configuration. This extension enables the compact machine to handle deeper pile installations that were previously reserved for larger drilling rigs. The lattice boom extension is also designed to be retrofitted to both the LB 35.1 and the related LB 45.1 models, allowing existing equipment fleets to extend their operational range without replacing the base machine. Powertrain and Mechanical Performance The drilling rig is powered by a 450 kW (603 hp) diesel engine, delivering a maximum torque of 350 kNm (255,934 lbf-ft). This torque output supports demanding drilling operations in dense soils or rock layers where high rotational force is required. The winch system provides a maximum line pull of 300 kN, supporting heavy drilling tools and reinforcement elements during pile construction. Elastic mounting of the winches reduces vibration transmission and lowers noise emissions during operation. Parallel kinematics in the machine design increases the effective working area of the leader system. This configuration enables shorter cycle times during drilling operations, contributing to improved productivity in high-volume pile installation projects. The leader top is compatible with different drilling axes, allowing the machine to support multiple drilling configurations. Both the leader system and the counterweights follow a modular design, enabling configuration changes depending on the specific drilling method used. Transport and Jobsite Mobility Transport efficiency is addressed through a design that allows the LB 35.1 to be moved with the leader folded, reducing the need for disassembly. As a result, the machine can be transported in one piece and prepared for operation with reduced setup time. This approach can shorten relocation times between construction sites and reduce logistical complexity for contractors operating multiple drilling rigs. Automation and Operator Assistance Systems Several automated assistance systems are integrated into the drilling rig to improve operational control and reduce manual adjustments during drilling processes. The drilling assistant automates the concreting phase in continuous flight auger drilling. By synchronizing the withdrawal of the auger with the concrete supply, the system helps maintain consistent pile quality. A slack rope monitoring system detects unwanted rope loosening and automatically intervenes through winch control to maintain stable tool handling. The automatic leader alignment system adjusts the leader to the pre-set inclination angle, supporting accurate vertical or inclined pile installation. Additional monitoring systems support safe operation: Kelly winch overload protection, which stops the crowd winch if the maximum permitted load is exceeded. Auxiliary winch rope-length measurement, useful when positioning reinforcement cages during pile installation. Kelly visualization system, which displays the locking recess positions of the telescopic Kelly bar in real time on the operator monitor, helping operators correctly align locking points during operation. The visualization system also provides color-coded signals indicating when locking is possible and generates warning signals if the Kelly bar is incorrectly positioned during shake-off procedures. Operator Environment and Ergonomics The operator cabin incorporates several ergonomic improvements intended for long operating shifts typical in foundation construction projects. Features include an orthopedic operator seat, adjustable display monitors, and improved access to machine controls. A redesigned refueling point positioned near the crawler undercarriage simplifies servicing operations on site. These design adjustments aim to improve operator comfort and reduce downtime associated with routine maintenance. Presentation at Co