Wedoany.com Report on Feb 28th, Moroccan heavy-lift and transport specialist Somalev Cranes & Logistics recently successfully completed the dismantling of two Liebherr ship-to-shore container cranes at the Port of Casablanca. As part of a terminal modernization project, the operation involved the removal of over 1,400 tonnes of steel structure, working at heights up to 70 meters, all while the port remained fully operational.
Somalev deployed two Liebherr telescopic mobile cranes—an LTM 1400-7.1 and an LTM 1250/1—for the task. Liebherr stated that these models were chosen for their high load capacity, flexibility, and suitability for the confined port area. The team opted for telescopic cranes instead of traditional lattice boom cranes to allow for adaptable handling of varying load scenarios and tight space constraints, enabling the step-by-step dismantling of major components like the boom sections, machinery house, and portal structure.
The project presented several technical and organizational challenges. Due to the cranes' age, the team had to adopt conservative load assumptions and reinforce rigging plans. All work was conducted within the busy terminal environment with extremely limited space for dismantling. To ensure safety, exclusion zones were established, and close coordination was maintained with port authorities and terminal operators. The dismantling sequence had to strictly follow the reverse order of assembly, requiring adjustments to crane configurations and rigging setups for different load phases. During multiple stages, the LTM 1400-7.1 and LTM 1250/1 performed synchronized lifts, demanding precise planning and real-time coordination.
Somalev conducted project-specific risk assessments for damaged components, implemented redundant rigging systems, continuously monitored wind conditions and crane parameters, and employed flexible work methods to adapt to unexpected structural conditions. By optimizing crane configurations, the team minimized the equipment's footprint, reducing disruption to daily port operations. This dismantling project demonstrated technical capability in executing major port equipment renewal within a complex environment.
