25.05.2010

Hybrid drive for mobile harbour cranes

Liebherr Nenzing has announced its Pactronic drive system which it claims cuts fuel consumption by up to 35 percent.

The new system is based on a regenerative hydraulic power system with an accumulator and advanced electronics to recapture all braking and gravity led power and using it to charge up an accumulator for release as a power boost when required.

The net result is that the crane is able to use a smaller and more fuel efficient diesel engine while the power boost substantially increases hoisting speeds. The system is particularly beneficial for applications where peak power is frequently required, such as bulk handling.

The accumulator, which is also topped up with any spare engine power, is based on proven energy storage technology and has a service life equal to the crane. It is said to be virtually maintenance free and is not affected by ambient temperatures.

Dr. Klaus Schneider, director drive systems said: “We believe Pactronic is one of the most important innovations we’ve come up with to date. It delivers customers a level of handling performance and power efficiency never seen before.”