Bontang, Indonesia – PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur (PKT), one of Asia’s largest fertiliser producers, has expanded its lifting capabilities with the addition of a Liebherr LTM 1230-5.1 mobile crane to its fleet. This marks the first Liebherr mobile crane deployed by PKT and represents a strategic investment in advanced lifting technology to support demanding operations at its fertiliser production facilities.
The 5-axle, 230-tonne Liebherr LTM 1230-5.1 will primarily operate at PKT’s Bontang industrial complex, where it will be used for heavy lifting, plant maintenance, and complex installation tasks across multiple fertiliser production units. The crane was selected for its ability to deliver high performance at steep working angles and elevated hook heights, making it ideally suited for industrial environments.
According to PKT, the Liebherr LTM 1230-5.1 stood out as the only mobile crane capable of meeting the company’s strict technical and operational requirements.
“The LTM 1230-5.1 is perfect for our requirements,” said Joko Susilo, PT Pupuk Kalimantan Timur. “It is the only crane that fully meets our needs in terms of lifting capacity, reach, and operational efficiency.”
One of the crane’s key advantages is its 75-metre telescopic boom, which allows PKT to perform a wide range of lifting operations without the need for additional lattice extensions, improving productivity and reducing setup time. The crane’s single-engine concept further supports fuel-efficient and cost-effective operation, an important factor for continuous industrial use.
The Liebherr VarioBase®Plus support system significantly enhances lifting performance, particularly in restricted rear working areas. Integrated with the LICCON crane control system, the technology calculates maximum lifting capacities in real time, increasing both operational safety and efficiency. Additionally, the crane’s compact design and small slewing radius enable safe operation in confined spaces within the fertiliser plant.
PKT operates a large-scale fertiliser manufacturing complex in Bontang, employing approximately 1,300 personnel and managing five ammonia plants, five urea plants, and three NPK plants. The company supplies fertilisers to the domestic market and exports globally, maintaining a strong focus on modernisation, reliability, and high production standards.
“With the LTM 1230-5.1, we can maintain and modernise our plants flexibly and safely,” Susilo added. “In addition to the crane’s technical performance, Liebherr’s service quality and reliability were decisive factors in our purchasing decision.”
The addition of the Liebherr LTM 1230-5.1 mobile crane strengthens PKT’s commitment to operational excellence and highlights Liebherr’s growing presence in industrial and heavy-lift applications across Southeast Asia.
