How
Low weight of logging equipment, in particular in the case of skyline cranes, is vital for many timber companies. At the same time, operators strive for more performance. Electric drives are our key enabler to achieve more performance at lower weight. Latest electric drives have a dramatically higher power to weight ratio than conventional hydraulic drives.
While ropeway system operators often prefer to transport timber upwards, a significant percentage of timber is transported downwards. Downward transport constitutes an excellent opportunity to recover and store energy to be used for hauling in the next load or moving the crane uphill. Depending on ropeway length, incline and transport conditions, fuel savings of up to 100% are practically possible.
Making use of an energy storage unit on board brings about another dramatic advantage. The internal combustion engine on board only needs to provide the average power required for the transport cycle. Peak power for uphill travel and winch operation are covered by the energy storage system. As a result, the combustion engine can be much smaller and lighter.
