Associated Terminals has acquired two Liebherr CBG 500 E transshipment cranes – powered exclusively by electric drives, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluids – for its bulk handling operations on the Mississippi River. The deployment marks Liebherr’s entry to the US transshipment sector.
Hybrid-electric power infrastructure
These all-electric cranes will operate on a hybrid-powered barge with flexible, mobile infrastructure. While the crane operations are fully electric, the onboard energy supply is ensured by a modern diesel-electric power system, enabling continuous, autonomous operation on the river. This configuration is intended to balance the precision and efficiency of electric drives with the flexibility and reliability required for midstream logistics. It also enables optimized fuel use through power management, reducing emissions per ton handled, Liebherr says.
Each crane offers 105 metric tons in hook mode with a 90-metric-ton load capacity in grab operation. Combined with a handling rate of up to 2,000 metric tons per hour and a 50m boom, this performance represents “a substantial leap in operational capability” Liebherr said.
According to Liebherr, the CBG 500 E enables faster vessel turnaround, reduced handling times and increased cargo volumes. This deployment is therefore projected to enhances operational efficiency and supports the company’s extensive river-based cargo operations.
Barge-based design
The CBG 500 E’s design and electric architecture has been designed for barge-based operations, where space, stability and energy efficiency are paramount. Its design prioritizes lifting power, reliability and environmental compatibility. SmartGrip technology automatically optimizes grab filling rates, while the LiCAS collision alert system enhances operational safety.
The operator’s cabin has been ergonomically redesigned with an elevated position, integrated touch panel and climate control system to ensure comfort and visibility in all conditions. Technical coordination ensured the cranes were configured to meet specific performance and integration requirements. The electric drive system incorporates Liebherr’s LiCaTronic energy recovery technology, which stores and reuses braking energy via supercapacitors. A closed-loop water cooling system ensures stable performance across a wide temperature range, from –20°C to +45°C.
Sustainability goals
By integrating the CBG 500 E into its fleet, Associated Terminals is not only reducing its carbon footprint but also enhancing operational flexibility and throughput. The hybrid floating crane platforms are expected to support flexible cargo transfers across a broad geographic area.
Todd Fuller, president of Associated Terminals, said, “These Liebherr cranes are more than just equipment. They represent our commitment to continuous improvement, environmental responsibility and employing advanced technology in marine cargo handling. The level of innovation in these systems aligns perfectly with our long-term strategy for operational excellence.”
“The CBG 500 E represent a new chapter in bulk cargo handling,” said Tim Ladendorf, global application manager for ship cranes, port and transshipment solutions for Liebherr Maritime Cranes. “Delivering the CBG 500 E to Associated Terminals is not only a technological milestone but marks Liebherr’s first step into the US inland transshipment sector. This project demonstrates how our all-electric crane solutions can adapt to new markets and operational models, while supporting our partners in building a more sustainable and future-ready logistics network.”
In related news, Van Oord recently carried out a pilot project with an electrified crane vessel, Christiaan P, in the seaport of Dordrecht in the Netherlands. The project was partly financed by the Regio Deal Drechtsteden-Gorinchem. Read the full story here