Nuh Çimento installs electric Liebherr LPS 420 crane to modernise bulk operations at Hereke port

Nuh Çimento has upgraded cargo-handling capacity at its private port in Hereke, Türkiye, with the installation of an electric-drive Liebherr LPS 420 portal slewing crane. The new unit replaces a Liebherr LPS 400 that had been in service since 1999, marking a generational shift in the company’s bulk-handling infrastructure.

Operational upgrade for high-volume bulk handling

The LPS 420 is designed for efficient dry bulk operations, offering a maximum lifting capacity of 124 tonnes and handling rates of up to 1,500 tonnes per hour. Its electric drive system enables reduced fuel use and lower emissions, while the closed hydraulic slewing circuit is intended to provide smooth, energy-efficient rotation under load.

The crane is supported by Liebherr’s Litronic control technology, which enables precise material handling—an important requirement for abrasive commodities such as clinker and cement.

Strategically located along the Gulf of İzmit, Nuh Çimento’s port handles up to 5 million tonnes of dry bulk cargo annually and serves more than 40 export markets. The port’s infrastructure includes a 595-metre berth for vessels up to 80,000 dwt, along with an underground conveyor tunnel and automated loading systems designed for continuous operation.

Transition from LPS 400 to LPS 420

The LPS 420 installation replaces the port’s long-serving LPS 400—the first portal slewing crane of its type delivered by Liebherr. The previous crane operated for 25 years, reflecting the company’s reliance on rail-based quay systems and high-throughput cargo handling.

According to Nuh Çimento, the installation of the new crane proceeded as planned under Liebherr supervision.

“We have known the LPS series for many years and are very familiar with the material we handle,” a company representative said. “The LPS 420 was a natural choice for us. Installation was quick and easy, just like a Lego. Our operators adapted to the new crane very quickly because it is practical and easy to use. It feels like a continuation of what we already knew, but with more power and less effort.”

Supporting long-term logistics and sustainability goals

The adoption of an electric-drive crane aligns with Nuh Çimento’s efforts to manage energy costs and comply with tightening environmental regulations. Reduced noise and vibration output are also expected to improve working conditions at the 24/7 facility.

Service continuity was a key consideration, the company said: “Our cranes must be ready to work when needed. With Liebherr, we have ensured a safe and reliable working environment.”

Liebherr highlighted the significance of its continued partnership with Nuh Çimento.

“This project reflects the strength of our long-standing relationship with Nuh Çimento. The LPS 420 builds on decades of shared experience and delivers a future-ready solution that supports their evolving operational and environmental goals,” said Andreas Ritschel, General Manager Sales Mobile Harbour Cranes at Liebherr-Rostock GmbH.

Positioned for future demand

With the LPS 420 now operational, Nuh Çimento aims to maintain high cargo throughput while supporting growing export volumes. The company expects improved cycle times, lower maintenance requirements and reduced environmental impact compared with the outgoing LPS 400.