Liebherrs reach new heights in NZ

China Construction New Zealand Limited are using a Liebherr 280 HC-L 12/24 and a 542 HC-L 18/36 on a construction project in Auckland, New Zealand to build a 187 metre high skyscraper.

Two luffing jib cranes at work on the construction of New Zealand’s tallest residential building. (Photo: Liebherr)

The Seascape skyscraper will be the tallest residential building in New Zealand when completed.

Liebherr is supporting the project with cranes, a special climbing concept and trained service engineers.

The 280 HC-L 12/24 has a maximum lifting capacity of 24 tonnes and a radius of 40 metres. The 542 HC-L 18/36 crane has a lifting capacity of up to 36 tonnes and a 50 metre radius.

Custom climbing concept

Liebherr’s tower crane solutions project department developed a custom climbing concept which allows the 280 HC-L to rise in height using a 355 IC internal climbing system.

The tower sections, measuring 1.9 x 1.9 metres, are narrow and therefore an ideal fit for spaces such as lift shafts.

Specific to this project is that the 280 HC-L is climbing on the outside rather than the inside of the building.

This setup allows the 280 HC L and 542 HC-L to provide optimal service on site.

The concept has the advantage that fewer tower sections are needed and that interior work in the lower section of the residential tower can be carried out unhindered, saving the client time and money, Liebherr said.

Climbing tower system

The 542 HC-L is taking a more conventional route, climbing on the outside of the building using a 500 HC tower system.

The 280 HC-L is climbing on the outside of the building with the help of a 355 IC internal climbing system. (Photo: Liebherr)

The luffing jib crane will be tied to the building a total of nine times until it reaches a maximum tower height of approximately 163 metres.

Once in position, the 542 HC-L will carry out the final lifts on site and assist in dismantling the 280 HC-L.

The 542 HC-L will then climb back down the building and be dismantled with the help of a mobile crane.

Liebherr’s service engineers are responsible for maintaining and climbing both cranes and will also take on disassembly.

New skyline

Construction work on the skyscraper is scheduled to continue until 2024.

A particular feature is its towering glass façade with a diamond-shaped braced steel frame that spans the entire height of the building’s east and west sides.

This will allow residents to enjoy unobstructed views of the harbour and Hauraki Gulf.

The building will boast 52 storeys when completed and, with a height of 187 metres, will become a new high point on the Auckland skyline. Alongside retail outlets and office space, the residential tower will also accommodate around 220 apartments.

Once the skyscraper is completed, the 542 HC-L will dismantle the 280 HC-L before climbing down again. (Photo: Liebherr)