CHINA: XCMG XCA4000 reaches a milestone with the installation of the world's tallest hybrid tower wind turbine

ORDOS, China , Dec. 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- A new chapter of green energy is being opened in Inner Mongolia, with XCMG's independently developed 4,000-ton XCA4000 rough-terrain crane playing the leading role at the construction site of the zero-emission Ordos Industrial Zone. This giant crane has become an integral part of the industrial zone's 500 MW flagship wind and solar energy storage project, underscoring its role as a pioneer in sustainable infrastructure.

The Ordos Zero-Emission Industrial Zone is a joint venture between Ordos Municipal Government and Envision Technology Group. It is the world's first fully operational zero-emission industrial zone. It features 100% green energy, with 80% of energy coming directly from clean sources such as wind, solar and storage, and the remaining 20% ​​being green electricity from the grid.

The launch of XCMG's 4,000-ton crane represents a significant milestone in the global energy transition. The XCA4000 is primarily designed for the installation of large wind turbines with hub heights of up to 190 meters and a maximum rated output of up to 15 MW. The crane is powered by a 566 kW Weichai diesel engine. To improve maneuverability, all 11 axles of the 29.7-meter-long beam are steered, eight of which are also driven. 

In its most recent deployment, the XCA4000 lifted a 117-ton nacelle and drive train, as well as 35-ton, 118-meter-long rotor blades, to a height of 190 meters - the equivalent of a 60-story building. The XCA4000 performed every step of the process flawlessly: lifting, rotating, aligning and positioning with remarkable efficiency and precision, praised by both the client and contractors.

"The 4,000-ton crane is easy to operate despite its 11-axle length," said Mr. Yang, the crane operator, who marveled at the crane's flexible control. "The different driving modes make the steering particularly flexible. During the installation of a 12.5 MW hybrid tower wind turbine, currently the tallest wind turbine on land, the two lifting operations were completed in just over twenty minutes each."

XCMG's 4,000-ton crane is a testament to the company's commitment to serving the international market with high-quality, intelligent and environmentally friendly solutions. By overcoming the challenges of installing high-performance wind turbines, XCMG continues to support the growing global green energy sector and demonstrates China's commitment to ecological progress.