Cranes from Liebherr are playing a key role in the construction of a highly challenging bridge project at the edge of the Sognefjord in Western Norway. The Ytre Steinsund Bridge is a cantilever structure due for completion by the end of 2026 and will boost connectivity between coastal areas near Hardbakke. This project is part of a much wider programme of infrastructure works in Norway to boost transport links, with new bridges and tunnels being constructed to link areas and communities that have previously relied in ferries or inadequate road facilities.
Four Liebherr EC-H series tower cranes are playing key roles in the project, operating reliably despite the tough weather conditions. The Sognefjord coastline is known for winds, rough seas and challenging weather conditions. Three Liebherr 280 EC-H 12 Litronic cranes with hook heights of up to 60.3m and one 132 EC-H with a hook height of 27.5m are being used. Offering working radii of up to 60m, the high-top cranes are handling of steel and concrete components from the delivery vessel onto the bridge. The intelligent Litronic control system of the 280 EC-H cranes is allowing smooth movements, even in changing wind conditions.
The Liebherr cranes are mounted on various foundation types to ensure stability. Three out of four High-top cranes are installed on cross bases as well as on solid concrete foundations with anchoring. One of the Liebherr EC-H cranes is positioned directly in the fjord on a specially designed steel frame, partially cantilevered over the water and anchored to the seabed.
Steel and concrete elements are delivered by boat and lifted directly from the moving vessel onto the bridge with precision. These operations are possible with accurate crane technology delivering full performance under extreme conditions.
Client for the work is the Norwegin Transport Ministry (Statens Vegvesen). Once this project and other bridge and tunnel works are complete, Norway will benefit from a hugely revamped transport network.
