Liebherr LH80 Material Handler
Presented here is the 1:50th scale Liebherr LH80 material handler which has been produced by NZG. This is a follow up to the previously released A954C High Rise handler and has some very nice detailing and functionality. The LH80 M weights in around 78 ton with an engine output of 313hp and features a 2 axle wheeled undercarriage with four outriggers for efficient manoeuvrability around the job site. Fitted with the maximum length boom and dipper, the machine has a range of over 23 metres while a choice of fixed or hydraulically elevating cabins give the operator an excellent view of the surroundings. A unique Liebherr feature is the ERC system consisting of a large cylinder connected to the boom which stores energy as the boom lowers which is then used during the lift cycle to increase lifting efficiency, resulting in lower fuel consumption and greater performance. This system won the innovation award at the 2010 Bauma.
The hydraulically operated elevating cabin is fitted with a side access platform that has an intricately etched mesh walkway and metal safety railings.
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The linkage keeps the cabin horizontal through the full range of movement with tiny printed warning labels and flexible hydraulic piping all adding to the realism. The cabin interior has been modelled with a black decorated driver's seat contrasting with the light grey interior with joystick controls and central console topped with steering wheel all visible through the clear glazed windows |
The rigid undercarriage has a functional steering axle and four-point lowering outriggers with pivoting pads which allow the model to be posed with the wheels raised off the ground. |
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The tyres have a smooth exterior surface with wheel hubs showing some nice structural detailing. The silver finished metal access steps, complete with metal grab rails are integrated into the sides of the undercarriage with metal safety railings added to the upper carriage.
The industrial straight boom has raised hydraulic pipework fitted which looks very authentic, topped with silver highlighted fixing bars and the hydraulics are smooth in operation while just about stiff enough to hold any chosen pose.
The body contours have been accurately modelled with printing used to highlight the panel handles and side grille panels which look good. The counterweight has inset rear facing lights and a rear view camera housing for added realism, finished with a chromed exhaust pipe and safety warning labels.
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All the metal safety railings have been finished in a new silver colour scheme matching that of the full sized machine perfectly. The model is supplied with a five tine cactus grab which is produced in metal and has good movement of the tines and 360 degree rotation of the head. The grab can be detached from the stick for alternative attachments to be fitted, although only the cactus grab is included with the model.
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The log handling grapple fitted to the Fuchs material handler from NZG is a perfect fit to the stick of the LH80 and gives the model an alternate posing option, shown below loading wooden logs.
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The paint finish is of a very high standard with accurate placement of the Liebherr markings and machine designation and the LH80 is a great companion to the previously released A954C and a great addition ot the Liebherr model fleet.
