Loading hot slag is challenging work, exposing the machine to constant, very high temperatures. The R 980 SME crawler excavator produced by Liebherr for the Saarland firm Backes Transport und Schlackenaufbereitung (Backes) was specially designed to fulfil such demands. Its dump bucket can handle large volumes of slag. The machine is equipped with special safety devices, such as a fire-fighting system for slag-loading work. Exposed lines and hoses are covered with heat shielding. This crawler excavator features a wide walkway on the operator's side, accessed via a retractable ladder.
