The Liebherr 1188 EC-H 40 Fibre, the most powerful tower crane in Liebherr’s EC-H series, has made its German debut on the construction site of RWE’s new CO₂-neutral sewage sludge mono-incineration plant in Hürth. Assembled by WASEL, the crane is playing a central role in lifting and positioning heavy components within the site’s constrained working environment.
RWE is investing around €80 million in the state-of-the-art facility at the Knapsacker Berg industrial area. Scheduled to begin operations in 2026, the plant will thermally process approximately 180,000 tonnes of municipal sewage sludge per year, advancing sustainable waste management in the region.
High-performance crane with innovative fibre rope technology
A defining feature of the 1188 EC-H 40 Fibre is its advanced fibre rope, which offers significant advantages over traditional steel rope. According to Michael Klein, Project Manager at WASEL Tower Cranes, the fibre rope delivers around 40% higher lifting performance and up to four times the service life, improving both efficiency and safety. Its lighter weight also simplifies handling during complex operations.
The crane in Hürth has been configured with a 60-metre hook height and a 75-metre jib. It can lift up to 40 tonnes at a 24-metre radius and still handle 12.9 tonnes at its full 75-metre reach, making it ideal for transporting and installing large plant components that require precise placement.
Teamwork ensures smooth assembly
WASEL’s team erected the crane at the end of 2024 using a 450-tonne mobile crane. The assembly process required detailed logistical planning and close cooperation between WASEL, Liebherr Tower Crane Solutions, and RWE’s project partners. The crane will remain in service until construction is completed, supporting all major assembly tasks.
For RWE, the project represents an important step in the company’s long-term sustainability strategy. The Hürth site is being transformed from a fossil-based energy location into a hub for modern, low-emission technologies. The deployment of Liebherr’s flagship High-Top crane underscores the essential role of advanced lifting equipment in delivering large-scale energy transition infrastructure.
