Liftra

About Liftra

Liftra ApS operates as a specialized engineering and manufacturing firm, providing tailor-made solutions for the global wind energy sector. Founded in 2003 in Aalborg, Denmark, by engineers Per Eske Fenger and Jens Mortensen, the company initially focused on engineering consultations for lifting and transportation within the wind industry. By 2005, Liftra transitioned from a consultancy to a solutions provider, launching its first proprietary equipment, the Tower Stacking Frames. This pivot marked the beginning of a significant growth phase, characterized by global expansion with offices in the USA, China, Spain, and later Poland, Australia, and Vietnam. By its 20th anniversary in 2023, the company had grown to over 500 employees across eight global locations, holding 25 patents and pending patents.

The company's business model centers on the design, manufacturing, and delivery of specialized equipment for wind turbine installation, maintenance, and transportation. It serves major energy companies and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in both the onshore and offshore wind markets across more than 30 countries. Liftra generates revenue through the sale and rental of its equipment, as well as providing related services and training. The firm positions its products as cost-effective and environmentally sustainable alternatives to conventional methods, emphasizing reduced CO2 emissions, smaller operational footprints, and minimized mobilization time.

Liftra's flagship product is the Self-Hoisting Crane (SHC), first introduced in 2013. This technology enables the replacement of major turbine components like gearboxes and generators without requiring large, conventional ground-based cranes. The crane is transported in a standard 40-foot container, climbs the turbine tower using its own wires, and mounts onto a base within the nacelle to perform lifts. The LT1200 model can lift up to 78 tons, operate at hub heights up to 170 meters, and withstand wind speeds of up to 18 m/s. Another key offering is the upcoming LT1500 Turbine Installation Crane, designed to install next-generation turbines with hub heights up to 250 meters. This crane utilizes a self-hoisting mechanism, climbing the tower as it installs new sections, which significantly reduces the need for extensive civil works and large crane pads. The LT1500 requires only 8 trailer loads for transport, compared to the 40-60 needed for traditional cranes.

Additionally, Liftra produces a range of Blade Yokes, such as the Blade Dragon and Blade Eagle, for single-blade installation and maintenance. These yokes provide stability in challenging environments and can be used on direct-drive turbines that lack a turning mechanism. The company also collaborates with partners on specialized solutions, including the OCX (Offshore Component eXchange) with HMH, which integrates the SHC with heave compensation technology for offshore use, and the SOLVE WIND joint venture with Esteyco, which combines crane technology with a barge system.