Konecranes hybrid reach stacker

The new reach stacker, which has a lifting capacity of 45 tonnes, features a hybrid diesel/electric driveline, electrified hydraulic lifting system and a super capacitor based energy storage.

With the new stacker, estimated fuel consumption at normal handling of fully loaded containers will be at least 30% lower than for equivalent diesel powered reach stackers. This is achieved by electrifying all flows of energy across the driveline, hydraulic lifting system and energy storage system.

Consisting of a diesel engine, an electrical generator and an electrical traction motor, the driveline generates electrical energy when braking, minimising the need for mechanical braking and saving energy. The diesel engine runs at constant RPM for optimum fuel efficiency, while propulsion is provided by an electric motor.

Anders Nilsson, technical director, Konecranes Lifttrucks, said: “Potentially, the diesel engine of the hybrid reach stacker could be replaced by another source of electrical energy, as technology and price allow. Such examples may be fuel cells or an energy storage that can be recharged via a connection to the power grid.”

The hydraulic pumps, which are electrically driven and controlled, also save energy. The return flow from the hydraulic cylinders is not converted into heat, but fed backwards through the pumps which act as hydraulic motors.

The reach stacker’s capacitor system for energy storage is connected to the truck’s electrics. The system stores energy that has been recovered for later re-use and boosts the diesel powered electrical generator at times of peak power demand.