Liebherr has introduced a comprehensive suite of assistance systems for its LR series crawler cranes and LB series rotary drilling rigs, specifically designed for deep foundation applications. In piling work, the verticality of the casing and the precise control of the crowd force (downward pressure) are critical for the structural integrity of the pile. Traditionally, this relies entirely on the operator's skill to constantly adjust the winch and crowd cylinders.
The new "Verticality Assist" uses high-precision inclination sensors mounted on the leader (the vertical mast). If the system detects the mast deviating from the vertical plane by more than 0.1 degrees, it automatically commands the cylinder crowding system to make micro-adjustments. This ensures that the drilling tool enters the ground perfectly straight, eliminating the risk of "batter piles" (piles driven at an unintended angle) which can cause structural failures in the foundation.
Additionally, the "Crowd Force Limiting" feature integrates torque data from the rotary drive. If the drilling tool encounters a hard rock layer, the system detects a sudden spike in torque and crowd pressure. Instead of forcing the tool down-which risks damaging the drill string or kelly bar-the system automatically reduces the crowd force and increases the rotary speed to "grind" through the obstacle. This automated reaction happens faster than a human operator can perceive, significantly reducing wear on the drill rods and increasing the lifespan of the cutting teeth by up to 30%.
