Investigating Effectiveness of Boom Energy Recuperation Hydraulic Excavator using Intensifier and Accumulator
Keywords:
Hydraulic excavator, three-chamber cylinder, hydraulic accumulator, hydraulic intensifierAbstract
Hydraulic excavators are essential in construction and mining due to their high load-handling capacity and operational flexibility, but they suffer from low energy efficiency and high energy consumption. The present investigation proposes a modified hydraulic circuit aimed at enhancing energy regeneration by utilizing output from both working chambers of a three-chamber hydraulic cylinder during the boom-lowering phase. Unlike conventional systems, where fluid from one chamber is sent to the accumulator and the other is wasted into the reservoir, the proposed design directs fluid from both chambers to a hydraulic pressure intensifier, which boosts the pressure before storing it in an accumulator. This modification significantly increases the amount of energy that can be recovered and reused during boom lifting, thereby reducing support on the hydraulic pump and minimizing energy waste. Additionally, it lowers negative pressure at the pump inlet, reducing the risk of cavitation and extending pump life. Early simulation results using Automation Studio® Educational Version 6.0 demonstrate a notable improvement in energy recovery over traditional systems. The integration of a pressure boosting mechanism and redesigned flow path shows great potential for enhancing the performance and efficiency of hydraulic excavators, paving the way for more energy-efficient and sustainable solutions in heavy machinery operations.
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