Liebherr Crawler Excavators Support Flood Protection on the Danube

Two Liebherr R 938 crawler excavators are being used to remove around 80,000 tonnes of gravel from the Danube River, a measure aimed at maintaining river flow and reducing flood risk in Ulm. The excavated gravel is transported to a nearby processing facility for reuse, aligning with efforts to support the circular economy. The project, managed by HEIM Holding GmbH & Co. KG, involves modifications to the machines by Nagel Baumaschinen Ulm GmbH to meet the specific demands of working in the river’s strong currents.

Liebherr states that the R 938 crawler excavators are part of its eighth generation, designed with features including a Stage V-compliant engine for fuel efficiency and a robust build for durability. These machines are intended for versatile use in demanding environments, highlighting their ability to perform under the increased resistance posed by flowing water and submerged conditions in this project.

The company adds that the design of the R 938 prioritises efficient operation, with modern features aimed at balancing performance and safety. Liebherr also points to the challenges of operating in submerged environments, where the machines must navigate limited visibility and varying depths to maintain productivity.

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