Fuel saving focus for Bosch Rexroth

Bosch Rexroth has put together a new component and software package it said could reduce the fuel consumption of excavators by up to -20% without compromising performance. The company’s new Virtual Bleed Off (VBO) system works by determining the volume of hydraulic oil needed for a particular function using sensors and using this information to control the pump.

Rexroth said this led to better response and greater efficiency, as well as safeguarding against high pressures.

The company will also be showcasing an automatic stop-start system for construction machinery, which it says is an industry first. This concept, which is common in the automotive industry, has been applied by Rexroth to hydraulics and works on the principle that fuel is saved by turning off the engine in idle periods.

The company has used a hydraulic flywheel in its system, which allows hydraulic functions to start up immediately, before the engine comes back on. This system can also provide a boost function during normal work.

The company will also be launching a new version of its LUDV hydraulic system for compact excavators, which it said could improve performance by up to +10%, as well as a new traction control system that automatically switches between two and four-wheel drive, depending on conditions.