Konecranes introduced the world’s first hybrid reach stacker, the SMV 4531 TB5 HLT for container handling, with a lifting capacity of 45 tons. It cuts fuel consumption and emissions by 30% featuring a hybrid diesel/electric driveline, electrified hydraulic lifting system, and a super capacitor based energy storage.
“Konecranes is a pioneer and leader in lifting technology and service. Our new hybrid reach stacker is an exciting step forward for our industry and further proofs that Konecranes is committed to offering its customers eco-efficient products and services,” says Lars Fredin, Vice-President and Head of Business Unit Lift Trucks, Konecranes.
In a conventional reach stacker, the driveline is a diesel/mechanical system consisting of a diesel engine, torque converter, and transmission. The diesel engine produces the energy for propulsion flowing through a complex mechanical gearbox. The energy generated by braking is converted into heat that is dissipated to the ambient and wasted.
In the new Konecranes hybrid reach stacker, the driveline is a serial configured diesel/electric system consisting of a diesel engine, an electrical generator, and an electrical traction motor. The diesel engine runs at constant RPM for optimum fuel efficiency and powers the generator. Propulsion is provided by an electric motor that is an integral part of the drive axle. This motor also generates electrical energy when braking, minimizing the need for mechanical braking and saving energy.
In the hybrid reach stacker, the hydraulic pumps are electrically driven and electronically controlled with electric motors driving the pumps for lifting and steering. The speed of these pumps can be controlled independently of diesel engine speed. More importantly, the return flow from the hydraulic cylinders is not converted into heat, but fed backwards through the pumps which now act as hydraulic motors, thus regenerating electrical energy.
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