Liebherr Group Crane Supports Basilica Restoration

Liebherr LTM 1250-5.1 dismantles scaffolding at Basilica of Saint-Michel restoration site.  www.liebherr.comFully supported on the forecourt of the basilica, Foselev’s LTM 1250-5.1 demonstrated its strength: with 41 tonnes of ballast and a 22-metre-long, hydraulically adjustable double folding jib, the brand-new mobile crane was able to reach every part of the enormous scaffolding from just two locations. A newly delivered Liebherr LTM 1250-5.1 mobile crane completed its first operational deployment by dismantling large sections of scaffolding surrounding the historic tower of the Basilica of Saint-Michel. The scaffolding had supported extensive restoration work on the late-Gothic tower spire, which stands 114 metres high and had undergone refurbishment over the past five years. Following completion of the restoration, the heavy steel scaffolding structure had to be dismantled safely without damaging the restored architectural elements. High-precision lifting at historic site The dismantling project was carried out by the French industrial services company Groupe Foselev using the newly acquired Liebherr crane. Configured with a 60-metre telescopic boom, luffing jib, and 22-metre hydraulically adjustable double folding jib, the crane achieved a hook height of 81 metres. The setup enabled operators to safely lift and remove scaffolding components weighing over four tonnes, reaching structures located up to 24 metres away from the crane position. Overcoming structural obstacles The complex scaffolding structure formed a circular frame around the tower with a diameter of approximately 25 metres. During the dismantling process, the crane had to carefully manoeuvre loads past the newly restored decorative elements and small side turrets of the tower. A key challenge was overcoming an interfering edge at approximately 68 metres height created by the scaffolding structure. By precisely adjusting the hydraulically tiltable lattice jib, the crane operator was able to position the hook inside the structure and remove components safely. Remarkably, the entire scaffolding could be dismantled from just two crane positions, minimizing disruption around the historic monument. The crane is able to reposition itself with ballast and an attached lattice jib. After an hour, Foselev’s LTM 1250-5.1 was ready for use at its new location. Successful first deployment The operation also marked the first time crane operator David used a Liebherr crane, having previously worked with other manufacturers. Despite the learning curve, the operator successfully repositioned the crane with the boom erected and jib attached, relocating it to the opposite side of the tower within about an hour. According to the Bordeaux branch of Groupe Foselev, the hydraulically adjustable jib proved particularly valuable for navigating the confined working space around the historic structure. Advanced crane technology Manufactured by Liebherr-Werk Ehingen GmbH, the LTM 1250-5.1 is widely recognized as one of the most powerful five-axle mobile cranes in the world, combining high lifting capacity with flexible boom configurations. The successful dismantling project highlights how modern crane technology can support complex restoration work on historic landmarks, where precise load control and careful manoeuvring are essential. Edited by industrial journalist, Lekshman Ramdas. www.liebherr.com Powered by Induportals Media Publishing