Luffing jib cranes enable high-rise construction in central Paris

Four Liebherr 280 HC-L luffing jib cranes support the construction of the Triangle building in Paris, addressing space constraints, complex geometry and demanding lifting requirements.  www.liebherr.com In the centre of Paris, the Triangle building is under construction as one of the city’s most distinctive new high-rise projects. The pyramid-shaped structure, measuring approximately 180 metres in length and only 35 metres in width, is being developed under particularly constrained site conditions, surrounded by dense urban infrastructure. The geometry of the building and the limited available space placed high demands on lifting technology. The construction team required crane solutions capable of operating efficiently at great heights, adapting to the building’s external form and minimising interference with the surrounding area. Objectives: Height, precision and minimal site footprint The main objectives were to ensure reliable lifting performance at significant hook heights, maintain safe operations in a confined environment and support the phased construction of a complex architectural structure. The cranes also needed to offer compact out-of-service positions and flexible climbing solutions to follow the building’s vertical progress. Crane solution for complex urban construction To meet these requirements, construction group BESIX and crane specialist HEXAGone Services selected four Liebherr 280 HC-L luffing jib cranes. The cranes were chosen for their high lifting capacity, compact slewing radius and suitability for large-scale projects in space-restricted urban settings. Two Liebherr 280 HC-L 12/24 cranes are mounted on portal bases and climb externally along the building as construction progresses. These units will reach hook heights of 187 metres and 152 metres. The other two cranes, Liebherr 280 HC-L 16/28 models, are mounted on foundation anchors and reach tower heights of 85.5 metres and 95.7 metres respectively. Technical characteristics supporting the project The 280 HC-L luffing jib cranes offer a maximum lifting capacity of up to 28 tonnes and a minimal slewing radius of just 7.5 metres. These characteristics are particularly relevant in central Paris, where limited space and strict safety requirements demand precise crane movements and reduced out-of-service positions. The cranes’ climbing technology allows them to follow the external contours of the triangular structure efficiently, ensuring continuous lifting capability throughout the different construction phases without requiring extensive ground-level space. Integration with architectural and environmental goals Designed by Herzog & de Meuron, the Triangle building will combine offices, co-working spaces, a hotel, retail areas, a cultural centre, a nursery and a health centre. In parallel with its architectural ambitions, the project incorporates environmental objectives such as improved energy efficiency, increased use of renewable energy and support for low-carbon mobility. The selected crane solution supports these goals by enabling efficient construction workflows, reducing site congestion and allowing precise handling of prefabricated elements in a complex structural environment. Project execution and collaboration The deployment of the four cranes reflects close coordination between the construction team, the crane provider and the equipment manufacturer. The collaboration between HEXAGone Services, BESIX and Liebherr demonstrates how specialised lifting solutions can be integrated into technically demanding high-rise projects. Conclusion By deploying four Liebherr 280 HC-L luffing jib cranes, the Triangle project in Paris addresses the challenges of height, geometry and space limitations typical of large urban construction sites. The solution provides the lifting performance, operational flexibility and compact design required to support the efficient construction of a landmark building in the heart of the city. www.liebherr.com Powered by Induportals Media Publishing