Engines, Components & Tyres

Advances in transmission technology will help to optimise machine performance – writes Mike Woof. As construction machines have become more sophisticated, so have the transmission systems used in items of equipment. Advances in electronics and software in particular have allowed the development of integrated transmissions. These operate more efficiently and help optimise power delivery from an engine, boosting torque response and cutting fuel consumption and emissions at the same time. The smart electronics

Innovative new engine emissions control technology is coming to market - Mike Woof reports. The diesel engine sector has been one of the most active and innovative areas for technological development in the past 10 years. Engine firms have invested enormous sums in developing new, low emissions technologies that reduce the quantities of nitrous oxide and particulates from the tailpipe. All the firms have taken a different approach in this regard, using various combinations of the technologies available such

Metso and Magotteaux of Belgium have signed an agreement to distribute Magotteaux special, composite type wear parts for impact crushers on an exclusive basis. The contract is valid on worldwide basis excluding the US, Canada and Mexico, where the agreement is of non-exclusive type. "With this agreement, we are able to combine Metso's proven knowledge of impact crushers with the special experience of Magotteaux regarding composite type of blow bars used with impactors. As a result, we can offer our customer

An array of innovative new engine and driveline developments are due – Mike Woof writes. With key construction machine events due in the New Year, various firms are already revealing plans for the future for their engines and driveline ranges and developments. Tough regulations on emissions have driven manufacturers to address this issue, while new and more efficient drives also help cut fuel use. Optimising power delivery provides an important component in reducing quantities of fuel burned, with a benefic

Emissions remain the focus for engine development but equipment manufacturers want clarity from regulators. Emissions remain a major challenge for the off-highway construction equipment market. The EU has tough targets in this respect and its objective is an overall reduction of CO2 emissions of 80-95% by the year 2050, compared to 1990 levels. There is considerable research already underway on how to reduce fuel consumption and to help ensure the security of energy supply. A number of industry sectors, suc

Research shows that keeping batteries within optimum operating temperatures will increase the range of electric vehicles. It is widely known that batteries perform less well in cold weather but it is often overlooked that overheating will also cause problems. For batteries to provide a long service life, overheating has to be prevented and temperatures kept within the optimum operating range of 20-35°C. But driving in hot ambient conditions can push a battery temperature outside the optimum range and this c