Another 2,500 tonne crawler crane for Denzai

The Denzai and Liebherr teams with the LR 12500 and itsnew SPMT ballast wagon. Photo: Denzai

Rapidly expanding Japanese crane and transport specialist and construction contractor Denzai has added another unit of Liebherr’s LR 12500-1.0 cranes to its fleet.

The 2,500 tonne capacity lattice boom crawler is the first unit with the new MBW ballast wagon configuration developed for Denzai. The MBW was developed by Liebherr and Cometto, which manufactures specialized heavy transport equipment. Its MSPE type self propelled modular transporter with a carrying capacity of 60 tonnes per axle line forms the ballast wagon.

At the time of writing the new unit was due to arrive in Japan in March 2026. Heavy lift applications will include work on offshore wind projects and construction of large power plants around the world.

The Cometto MSPE ballast wagon can be controlled electronically. Photo: Denzai

Engineering collaboration

Commenting on his latest addition to the fleet Kohki Uemura, Denzai president and CEO, said, “We are excited to introduce our second Liebherr LR 12500-1.0 crawler crane. This unit features the new-generation MBW ballast wagon system, for which we will use the Cometto MSPE 60t. We extend our appreciation to the Liebherr and Cometto engineering teams for their collaboration in developing this breakthrough in heavy lifting.

“The MBW configuration enables the operation of this massive crane within confined spaces, which is necessary for Japan’s offshore wind projects. The crane’s first assignment will involve port handling and pre-assembly work for Vestas V236-15.0 MW turbines, following delivery in March 2026.”

For his part Florian Ritzler, Liebherr head of sales management, crawler cranes, said, “We are thrilled that Denzai has chosen to rely on the innovative ballast wagon solution for the LR 12500-1.0 – a true milestone in heavy lifting technology. With the new option of using SPMT as a ballast wagon for the LR 12500-1.0, Liebherr offers maximum flexibility and efficiency on the construction site.

“The SPMT can be controlled directly via the crane’s control system, eliminating the need for additional operating personnel – that solution is unique in the industry.

“Since SPMT is available worldwide and can be used for other tasks when not serving as a ballast wagon, customers benefit from a highly versatile and economical solution. The system has already been successfully tested and enables the safe and precise movement of large ballast weights.”