Select Marks Milestone with Longest-Ever Crawler Crane Hire
Select Plant Hire is proud to celebrate a major operational milestone - our longest-ever crawler crane hire, now approaching successful completion on the Thames Tideway Project in London. This achievement not only showcases the durability of our plant but also reflects our longstanding presence across the entire project lifecycle and our ongoing trusted partnerships with clients.
Since August 2018, the Liebherr LR1300 crawler crane has been a cornerstone of operations at the Blackfriars pumping station, the largest and most complex site along the Tideway route. Its continued deployment is a testament to our engineering excellence, operational resilience and the confidence placed in us by our partners throughout the project’s duration.
Engineering Excellence: The LR1300
The LR1300 is the largest crawler crane in our fleet, offering:
- 300-tonne lifting capacity
- 92-metre boom length
- Stage V engine compliance
- Advanced multi-function control systems
This year also marks the 18th anniversary of the LR1300’s production, reinforcing its proven reliability in the construction industry.
One of the most notable aspects of the crawler crane’s deployment is its time spent operating from a floating barge on the River Thames - a rare and complex setup for crawler cranes. This innovative approach enabled efficient lifting operations directly over water, reducing logistical constraints and enhancing site access.
Operating on the river presented unique challenges, including:
- Constant movement from passing vessels
- Unpredictable wind conditions, requiring continuous monitoring
- Marine safety protocols for crane operators and site teams
Despite these hurdles, the LR1300 remained a reliable and safe solution, thanks to the expertise of our team and close coordination with project partners.
The success of the LR1300 on Tideway is a testament to the power of engineering and innovation, and a reflection of our long-term partnerships and project continuity.