Schaeffler shows electrified tech for farming machines

Front loader is compatible with electric machines (Photo: DPI)

Schaeffler has presented its extended product range for agricultural applications at Agritechnica 2023 (Hall 17, Stand F52).

The systems largely use electrification and digitalisation to deliver agricultural machinery solutions intended to improve process efficiency and deliver climate-neutral operation.

Featuring a series of innovations using technology provided by the Ewellix, a specialist in linear movement acquired by Schaeffler in 2022, the stand at Agritechnica inlcuded a front loader concept using Ewellix CASM actuators.

The actuators deliver a drive force of up to 31,000 N (peak 62,000 N), which in this particular instance give the front loader a maximum capacity of about three tons. With a linear speed of up to 160 mm/s, they are offered with brake and centrifugal brake options.

Smooth operation of the internal drives allow precise movement and positioning of the front loader.

Actuators such as these are particularly useful for working with food products as there is no risk of hydraulic fluid leaks. The units are largely self-contained and only need servicing (grease top up) every one to two years.

In addition, when the actuators are not providing force, they can be used to regenerate current which can then be stored in the vehicle battery system.

Designed to be compatible with electrified farming and construction machines, the front loader is best-suited for use with 24V electrical systems or higher.