Switzerland-based German equipment manufacturer Liebherr has installed a a fixed cargo crane, the FCC230, at Australian mining company Centamin's Sukari gold mine in Egypt.

The crane was delivered in August, 2013 – one year after Liebherr was awarded the contract – while assembly and commissioning of the crane was completed in December 2013.

The FCC230 is installed on a fixed pedestal and is currently being used for the maintenance of Centamin's on-site stone crusher. The crane is also being used to assist in lifting old closing bore heads – from where they are operating 10 m underground – to the surface, after which they are replaced with new ones. Each bore head weighs up to 35 tonnes.

With a 55 t capacity at an outreach of 17 m, and 35 t at 25 m, the FCC230 supports mining operators in carrying out a quick and safe maintenance process to retain productivity at the whole facility. The Liebherr FCC 230 distinguishes itself through its high-level reliability and low-level maintenance requirements, despite having to operate in extreme working climates. 

Mining operators also benefit from Liebherr’s worldwide service network, which guarantees the availability of spare parts and competent service personnel.

Moreover, the low energy requirement of the FCC230 confirms the crane’s excellent cost:performance ratio, providing the best solution for efficient work at the gold mine.

The Sukari gold mine was established in 2009 and is situated about 25 km west of the Red Sea in the southern Central Eastern Desert of Egypt. This is the first gold mine in the country that produces ore in accordance with modern-day standards. 

With the installation of this crane, Liebherr has strengthened its presence in the heavy industry market.

In addition to the location in Egypt, Liebherr maritime cranes support other mining projects with FCC’s in South America and Africa.