Smart solutions for construction machinery

22 March, 2017

Energy-efficiency advantage

As well as offering environmental benefits, Kilgallen comments that the more energy-efficient construction machinery is the more potential cost savings are to be had. With this in mind, he explains that Bosch Rexroth’s 4EE programme offers expertise for engineering energy-efficient and environmentally responsible components and systems.

Improved machine controllability and safety

Taylor makes the point that conventional hydraulic systems can become unstable and unpredictable, potentially putting operator safety and productivity at risk. “Even experienced operators can over-command a machine, creating a high-pressure cycle that’s difficult to get out of,” he said. With this issue in mind, Taylor explained that Eaton’s Pro-FX Ready products use sensor technology and on-board electronics to dynamically balance power available with power consumed. They automate the many micro-decisions in each work circuit so that when the operator commands the system, the machine can respond smoothly and efficiently.

The need for effective filtration

Continuing the safety theme, but from a pneumatics/compressed air perspective, Smith homes in on the need for effective health & safety good practice on today’s construction sites. He explains that air compressors are often used for tasks such as driving large air motors and providing an air supply for pneumatic tools. “For these types of tasks, it wouldn’t normally be necessary to over-clean or over-dry the air, so there will likely be some particulate oil in the air supply and this won’t be a cause for concern,” he said. “However, if breathing air is taken off the mobile compressor to provide the workers with an air supply when they are undertaking tasks such as sand-blasting or paint spraying, this air would naturally need to meet current breathing standards. Here, it is critically important to supply effective filtration equipment. Rightly so, the health & safety requirements today are far more rigorous than they were in the past.”

Working together

Like many of its member companies, the BFPA also recognises there is less of a designated difference between fluid power and other power-based technologies. “The Association has forged closer ties with other related bodies such as GAMBICA,” said Smith, “and I believe this is a very positive move; reflecting that it recognises that many of its members are active not just in the pure fluid power camp. Certainly, Parker is a good example of this; covering hydraulics, pneumatics, electromechanical hybrid solutions and more.”

www.bfpa.co.uk

www.boschrexroth.com/en/gb/

www.eaton.uk.com

www.parker.com/uk