Liebherr R 992 delivers high performance and low emissions for CMSE
CMSE first in France to acquire new-generation Liebherr crawler excavator equipped for rock extraction
CMSE (Carrières & Matériaux Sud-Est) have become the first customer in France to acquire a new-generation Liebherr crawler excavator. Specially equipped for extraction work, the company’s 94-tonne R 992 machine is being used to extract rocks at Saint-Pons-de-Thomières Quarry, where improvements and technological innovations in the Liebherr crawler excavator range are ensuring performance and versatility on the ground.
Liebherr’s Generation 5.2 and 6.2 crawler excavators, in the 70–100-tonne range, were unveiled to the public at the last Bauma exhibition. The R 972, R 978 SME, R 992, and R 998 SME models replace the R 966, R 970 SME, R 976 and R 980 SME models respectively. These new excavators, developed with a particular focus on reducing fuel consumption, also feature other improvements, such as enhanced performance data, optimal operator comfort, and new operator assistance functions.
Extracting blue quartzite is the R 992’s main task at CMSE’s site. The machine’s high tooth force, reliability, and precision are guarantees of quality in this challenging application. It is specially equipped with piston rod guards, an HD undercarriage, and a 5.20m3 HDV bucket with guide rails for a drop ball. The bucket is specially reinforced, as the high abrasiveness of digging blue quartzite, the primary product from this quarry, demands a specifically adapted cutting tool. After blasting, the excavator loads lumps of rock into three dumptrucks that take the material to the crushing station.
The R 992, like all models of the new generation, comes with the Bucket Fill Assist (BFA) system and the Liebherr Power Efficiency – Engine Control (LPE) system. CSME use BFA for a higher bucket filling level and optimal penetration into the rock. This system improves operator comfort by reducing vibration and reduces fuel consumption by 10%. At less than 60 litres/h, the excavator’s current fuel consumption is lower than that of the company’s previous excavator. CMSE also appreciate the Liebherr Power Efficiency – Engine Control (LPE) system, which provides optimal control of machine power. It actively regulates engine speed and the hydraulic pumps’ angle of inclination.
CMSE, a subsidiary of Colas France, have 40 quarries across 18 French locations. The Saint-Pons-de-Thomières Quarry, where the R 992 is in operation, produces, distributes and sells aggregates for public works construction sites and has previously supplied materials for race car tracks in France and other countries. The choice of a Liebherr Generation 6.2 excavator was based on the customer’s wish to acquire a robust, high-performance machine with low fuel consumption. As a holder of the UNICEM Cap Environment label, CMSE are particularly keen to reduce CO2 emissions across their entire fleet.
