Electrification is increasing in many heavy-duty off-highway mobile equipment applications, particularly in construction equipment. According to Antti Väyrynen, director of Off-Highway for Danfoss’ Editron division, key drivers for this shift are emissions reductions and efficiency improvements.
Both local and global emissions—including carbon and noise—can be reduced through the use of electric powered equipment which typically runs quieter and does not emit anything into the atmosphere during operation. Use of electric components which can be fine-tuned to application needs enable more efficient operation, as well as a reduction in maintenance costs, greatly benefiting end-users.
In this interview with Power & Motion, Väyrynen outlines the factors driving heavy equipment manufacturers toward electrification such as emissions and noise reduction benefits.
Additionally, the lower total cost of ownership for end users has become a key driver. Fuel costs, which can be quite high, are lowered or eliminated completely — depending on whether it is a hybrid- or full-electric machine. There is less wear associated with the electronic components utilized on these machines, reducing the amount of maintenance required.
Proving the business case for electrification will be key to its uptake in the construction industry. Construction equipment is used for work and can be expensive to own and operate. Anything that can be done to bring down operational costs is helpful which will incentivize the purchase of electric-powered machines.
Read more about Danfoss Editron's recent electrification project with Doosan.
