Liebherr has launched a new dragline machine, the LMD 1200, specially developed for the extraction of raw materials in demanding mining applications. This new model is available globally and was unveiled at the 50th anniversary celebration of Liebherr-Werk Nenzing GmbH in Austria, which took place from 23 to 27 June 2026.
The LMD 1200 – Liebherr mining dragline – is suitable for wet mining (below the groundwater table) and dry mining. The boom system can be flexibly configured depending on operating environments to achieve the best possible working performance.
The maximum lifting capacity of 30 t, with a working radius of 40 m, meets the requirements of large-scale mining applications. Thanks to its robust steel construction, the LMD 1200 is designed for continuous use in extreme weather conditions, offering reliability and durability.
The LMD 1200 is equipped with a 670 kW engine and two 500 kN winches, shared Holger Streitz, managing director for technology and development at Liebherr-Werk Nenzing, during a press conference. He added that the machine, built for 24/7 use and low operating costs, features a boom length of 35-50 m and a high turnover of up to 850 cu m/hr.
The dragline bucket is up to 12.25 cu m and the digging depth is up to 25 m. The Liebherr twin hydraulic motors automatically adjust the speed of the winches to match the required digging force, allowing even and efficient filling of the dragline bucket and significantly increasing handling capacity. Combined with the powerful swing gear, this results in shorter working cycles and greater productivity.
The LMD 1200’s fairlead consists of a pivoting roller head with rope pulleys and guide rollers, as well as a bearing and an automatic positioning unit. This facilitates wear-reducing spooling of the drag rope onto the rope drum. The large rope diameter and standard grooving significantly extend the rope’s service life. The new rope lock enables quick rope changes, minimising downtime.
Flexible mobility concept
Thanks to specially developed hydraulic components, the drivetrain is optimally designed and functionally harmonised. The combination of engine power and reduced hydraulic pressure delivers efficient operation while achieving both low fuel consumption and high handling capacity.
According to Liebherr, the integrated tank with a capacity of 1,000 l and an 8,270 l additional tank allow the LMD 1200 to run continuously for up to one week without refuelling. The core components of the machine include a high proportion of Liebherr’s own developments, increasing parts availability and thus operational readiness.
The LMD 1200 has an operating weight of 360 t, and its mobility concept enables it to be driven and relocated within the mine with the boom lowered, reducing time and costs for users. Liebherr said the entire machine can be assembled or disassembled in just one week.
Driver comfort
For driver comfort, the spacious cabin features a noise-optimised design and a clear overview of the working area. Cameras on the machine extend the operator’s field of vision and enable a safe all-round view, as well as monitoring of the rope winding on the winches.
The tinted safety glass provides sun protection, and the air-conditioning system ensures an ideal working climate. The orthopaedic driver’s seat can be heated, cooled, or ventilated as needed. The cabin is also fitted with a second driver’s seat for practical training of new operators.
Furthermore, an optimised lighting concept for the boom, cabin, and access ways to the machine enhances visibility during night use.
