The presentation marks the first public showing of the battery electric power unit in this application. Caterpillar developed the system to help original equipment manufacturers electrify existing machine platforms with less redesign work.
Unit replaces diesel engine package
The battery electric power unit is designed as a compact, integrated package. It can replace a diesel engine in the same installation space and uses the same mounting points and a comparable position in the machine.
The unit combines the battery, electric motor, inverter, onboard charging, cooling and controls. This allows manufacturers to use existing chassis platforms when developing electric variants of diesel-powered machines.
Integration supports faster development
The system addresses electrification at power-unit level. This can reduce engineering complexity for manufacturers that want to offer diesel and electric versions based on one machine architecture.
According to Caterpillar, the approach can simplify engineering, procurement, service and support. It can also reduce development work for electric machine variants and support faster market introduction.
Prototype targets regulated applications
Caterpillar and Zeppelin Power Systems have worked with Doppstadt over the past year to integrate the unit into the SWS 6 Spiral Shaft Separator. The prototype is intended for applications where exhaust emissions and noise are critical factors, including indoor, urban and regulated sites.
After IFAT, Doppstadt plans to start field trials with the battery-electric separator. The companies will use operational data to assess performance and guide further development.
