Béthune, France – A specially configured Liebherr R 938 crawler excavator has been deployed for dredging operations at the river port of Béthune, highlighting customised engineering solutions developed by Liebherr for complex hydraulic projects.
The 45-ton excavator, developed and manufactured by Liebherr-France SAS at its facility in Colmar, France, is currently operating on the GD I pontoon owned by Ghent Dredging. The machine begins daily dredging operations on the inland canal system serving the northern French town.
Custom configuration for dredging operations
Although the Generation 8 R 938 model is typically designed for earthmoving applications, this project required a bespoke configuration tailored specifically for dredging work.
The modified Liebherr R 938 crawler excavator features a multi-purpose working attachment system, including an 8.7-metre gooseneck boom paired with a 5.7-metre stick, allowing the machine to reach the bottom of the canal efficiently. To maintain stability during operations on the pontoon, the excavator is equipped with a substantial 11.8-tonne counterweight.
Additional structural modifications were also integrated to enhance performance and safety in the challenging dredging environment.
Enhanced operator visibility and safety
Operator comfort and operational visibility were key design priorities in the customised machine. The excavator features a hydraulically adjustable cab, enabling operators to maintain a clear field of view under varying working conditions.
The cab also includes an integrated air filtration system that supplies fresh air to the operator, while additional lashing eyes on the undercarriage improve stability when the machine is secured to the floating platform.
Other specialised elements include a load lug beneath the stick to assist with lifting operations and precision hydraulic controls designed to support safe, controlled and efficient dredging activities.
Fleet expansion reflects confidence in Liebherr equipment
In 2025, Ghent Dredging strengthened its equipment fleet by adding two Liebherr R 938 crawler excavators, reflecting continued confidence in the performance and reliability of the manufacturer’s machines.
The partnership also involves SOMPT Belgium, which provides local customer support and technical assistance. The collaboration demonstrates a long-term commitment to supporting complex dredging projects through specialised machinery and service expertise.
Four decades of specialised excavator development
For more than 40 years, Liebherr-France SAS has developed crawler excavators for specialised applications such as tunnelling, selective demolition, material handling and transport. These machines are factory-configured to meet specific project requirements while complying with strict CE certification and quality standards.
In recent years, the manufacturer has also seen growing demand for electrically powered excavators, reflecting the industry’s shift toward lower-emission construction and infrastructure equipment.
Ghent Dredging’s role in European water engineering
Founded in 1976, Ghent Dredging has nearly five decades of experience in dredging and hydraulic engineering. The Belgian company employs around 50 specialists and undertakes projects across Belgium, France and Netherlands.
Its operations cover a wide range of water-related infrastructure activities, including river and marine dredging, groundwater management, soil remediation and sludge treatment, serving both public authorities and private sector clients.
The deployment of the customised Liebherr R 938 crawler excavator at Béthune illustrates how specialised equipment continues to play a critical role in supporting modern dredging and inland waterway maintenance projects across Europe.
