As construction equipment manufacturers expand their selection of electrically driven machinery, some businesses are exploring the possibility of converting existing diesel engines to electricity. Retrofit electrification offers the potential to increase the lifespan of equipment while reducing carbon emissions. Today we will delve into the concept of retrofit electrification, its application across various machine classes, and its potential as a workable option for cutting carbon emissions in the construction industry.
Retrofit Electrification in the Construction Industry
Retrofit electrification involves converting diesel engines in construction equipment to electric power. This approach enables machine owners to extend the lifespan of their equipment while reducing carbon emissions.
Assessing Viability: The Manitou Initiative
The Manitou Group’s partnership with Kiloutou, an equipment rental firm, showcases one such initiative in its early stages. The project involves the conversion of used diesel telehandlers into electric machines using electrification kits. By disassembling and reassembling the equipment with these kits, Manitou aims to assess the technical and financial viability of electrifying telehandlers.
Potential for Various Machine Classes
According to Alex Woodrow, a specialized automotive technology consultant, retrofit electrification can theoretically be applied to a majority of machine types. Machines that rely on hydraulic systems are relatively straightforward to convert. The engine-driven pump can be replaced with an electric pump, batteries, an inverter, a motor, and an on-board charging system.
Application in Mining Industry
Woodrow highlights the potential of retrofit electrification in the mining industry. Mining vehicles, such as stiff dump trucks, often have ample space once the engine is removed for conversion. Additionally, many mining machines are already diesel-electric, making conversion easier since the diesel engine serves as a generator while the final drive is electrically powered.
Considerations for Construction Applications
While smaller specialized electric machines are already available, Woodrow suggests that retrofit electrification for larger construction equipment should be considered on a case-by-case basis. Equipment without electrically driven alternatives, such as specialist wheeled excavators for railway use, may be purchased and retrofitted later. However, retrofitting large machines with gearboxes, like wheel loaders, may be less economically viable compared to acquiring new electric models.
Business Rationale and Future Implications
Woodrow argues that there may be limited business rationale for retrofitting electrification kits into construction equipment. He suggests that in the case of expensive, specialized machines or fleets with few operational hours, retrofitting could be beneficial. However, for most cases, purchasing new off-the-shelf electric machines would likely be the most economical option. Additionally, upcoming legislation, such as battery durability controls and the implementation of a battery passport system, may further impact the attractiveness of retrofit electrification.
Retrofit electrification in the construction industry holds the potential to extend the lifespan of equipment while reducing carbon emissions. While the concept is theoretically applicable to various machine classes, the economic viability and practicality of retrofitting must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. As the market for electric construction equipment expands, the demand for retrofit electrification may decrease, with new off-the-shelf electric machines becoming the preferred option. Nonetheless, the ongoing development of legislation and technological advancements will continue to shape the future of retrofit electrification in the construction industry.