Continuing from the previous article
Alternative Energy Innovations
Fuel technology innovation is another key driver of change in the excavator industry, with Liebherr making significant strides in this area.
Marc Wiedemann from Liebherr’s Kirchdorf operations stated, “Energy transformation technologies include a comprehensive range of efficient engines and drive systems, such as Liebherr’s in-house developed and manufactured internal combustion engines, hydrogen combustion engines, electric motors, fuel cells, batteries, and hybrid systems.”
Wiedemann emphasized that each technology has its strengths and limitations, often requiring specific infrastructure and being suited to distinct applications. “For the foreseeable future, there will not be a universal drive technology that fits all application areas, such as construction machinery and lifting equipment,” he explained.
“Instead, the more precisely drive technologies, applications, and usage regions are aligned, the greater the value created for customers and the contribution toward climate neutrality.”
Some technological advancements also help meet the demands of machinery. China's XCMG states that the XE690DK hydraulic excavator is equipped with additional monitoring features that enhance safety and efficiency.
“The machine is equipped with an independent intelligent temperature sensing control system that optimizes fluid temperature regulation, reduces noise, and improves overall efficiency,” said XCMG. Additionally, the machine’s intelligent management system integrates IoT technology and user-friendly mobile applications, enabling real-time monitoring of machine status to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Comfortable Cabins
Perhaps the most significant change in excavators over the past decade has been the remarkable improvement in cab comfort.
Electronic hydraulic components have reduced the physical effort required on control levers, while features like air conditioning and ergonomic seats, once considered luxuries, are now standard for major brands.
Jason Hurdis, a global market expert at Caterpillar, emphasized that cab comfort is a key priority for the company. During a summer outdoor demonstration, he humorously noted that operators, sitting in air-conditioned cabs, were “wearing headphones and mocking me.” He welcomed the banter, viewing it as a sign of success after years of work on developing new cab designs.
Hurdis added that seemingly minor upgrades, such as improved LED lighting and radio controls, are highly valued by operators.
China’s LiuGong highlights that the 925FCR cab incorporates seven new factory-available features. These include:
Parallel wipers designed for high-dust environments
A tilting console for easier cab entry and exit
A 10.1-inch display offering 360-degree visibility
USB-A and USB-C charging ports
Upgraded audio and radio systems
Enhanced seating and hydraulic adjustments
Enhancing Every Detail
Although remote operation, 3D-grade assistance, and electro-hydraulic systems may sound like cutting-edge technologies (and they are), excavators have a long history, and these key technological features have been around for some time. While these technologies have certainly reached an advanced level today, **Justin Stieg**, Product Marketing Manager for John Deere’s Excavator Division, points out that their team still focuses on improving the fundamental features.
Taking Deere’s new **P-series** (compared to the previous G-series) models, ranging from 210 to 380, as an example, Stieg explains that equipment manufacturers are still discovering design and accessibility innovations. These improvements can enhance productivity without relying on computer chips or emerging technologies.
"We made lubrication joints simpler, especially the joints between the arm and the bucket," Stieg explained. "We designed a lubrication channel that flows from the center outward, allowing the lubricant to push out dirt and debris, preventing accelerated wear on the joint bearings." Stieg also pointed out that **Deere** has further enhanced the durability of the arm and bucket joint by reinforcing the cap-shaped bushings and hardened pins. "With increased bushing and pin hardness and better sealing, we've seen a two to three times improvement in the lifespan of this joint compared to the G-series design," he added.
John Deere also redesigned the simple fan assembly used to cool the engine, hydraulic, and electronic components. Stieg mentioned that these improvements have led to even more technical innovations. "We transitioned from the G-series hydraulic-driven fan to the P-series electronic on-demand cooling fan," he explained. "Depending on the application, this change has resulted in fuel savings of at least 7% to 10%."
Stieg emphasized that the core purpose of these adjustments is to create value for owners and end-users. “Every time we can free up some power and reduce engine load, both we and our customers benefit from fuel savings,” he said.
While significant breakthroughs in fuel technology for large excavators may still be a few years away, the industry appears focused on extracting greater efficiency and utility from modern excavators in the meantime.
Source: Machinery Information Station
English
