Hybrid and full electricity: is the global switch finally on?

Globally, the trend towards more sustainable operations has been going on for ages. At Metso Outotec, we have been manufacturing diesel-electrical crushing and screening machines since 1985, but the recent years have truly put a lot of speed on the product development. With the developments in sensor, automation and battery technologies, the diesel-electrical machinery has definitely matured. Also, more manufacturers have jumped the bandwagon and introduced their more or less hybrid models.

Many reasons to change

Behind megatrends there are always individuals with their own reasons. The motivation can be cutting the operating costs, particularly with more and more countries prohibiting the use of inexpensive Red Diesel, or the willingness to comply with stricter regulations. One Finnish customer recently said to me: “When can we have this equipment as an e-Power model for the sake of easier maintenance?” Reasoning in each customer or business case may vary, but the outcome seems to be always the same – think hybrid.

Efficiency is the key

Some of the hybrid benefits are obvious – such as less pollution and fewer service points. But efficiency comes from more than one factor. For instance, electricity is usually cheaper than diesel fuel, and plug-in units have way better operational efficiency of up to 95%. What’s more, a Lokotrack train efficiency in diesel-electric operation may increase if a single Lokotrack crusher can provide enough power with its generator to drive another unit as well, such as a screen. This maximizes the utilization of the diesel generator and saves fuel. With the flexibility of electric use, the total process flow control and equipment efficiency can be taken to a completely different level.

The heat is on

The increasing demand feeds the technological advances. At Metso Outotec, we are taking advantage of our head start in the world of hybrid thinking, improving our products. For example, the energy consumption of a Lokotrack mobile crusher is pretty much dictated by its crusher unit, as it uses roughly 2/3 of the consumed energy. The way we see it, the crushing and screening process optimization is the key to the sustainable, CO₂-free future. This makes it essential to provide solutions that utilize the energy without losing it as heat.

New innovations related to e-Power equipment may be expected in coming years, so stay tuned!

Is the time right for hybrid?

Currently, I am tuning in to the future by driving a plug-in hybrid car. It has been interesting, and my experience is so far positive. Still, a lot of infrastructure and political development is needed until we are able to fully jump into the electric CO2 free future. The same applies to technology, as otherwise my annual salmon fishing trip to Norway will need much more planning and time considering the challenges of the recharging intervals and driving distances. But every day the world is taking big leaps towards switching to a more sustainable future!