Where steel ends: Clear the stage for Liebherr’s hybrid solutions in lightweight construction

Liebherr's components product segment initially introduced its work in the field of fibre composites at Bauma 2019. In the meantime, the Components site in Kirchdorf an der Iller (Germany) has not only gathered further expertise and expanded its production capabilities, but has also worked on transferring this technology into its established hydraulics portfolio . One major result of this are the so-called hybrid cylinders, which are part of the product range in the fibre composite area. Even today, following preliminary development and targeted design, all classic hydraulic cylinders can be wrapped with CRP. In some application areas, solutions are even possible without an extensive development effort. The hybrid cylinder variant is integrated as a standard in the 380 bar series and is available as a separate option.

Why hybrid cylinders?

Many years of experience in the development and production of hydraulic cylinders and expertise in the field of fibre composites are optimal prerequisites for a goal-oriented combination. If weight plays a crucial role in the given application (for example, due to road approvals), hybrid cylinders are the right choice. Here, easy interchangeability of existing Liebherr hydraulic cylinders is possible. When specifically designing a hybrid component to save weight, the positive characteristics of fibre composites, such as stiffness, strength and density, become an advantage.

Achieve the full potential with the right component

The effect of using a lightweight component, such as a hybrid cylinder, varies depending on the application. Weight savings can increase operating speeds, enlarge attachments and booms and raise payloads. In addition, emissions and fuel consumption are reduced. The basis for the required improvement is the cooperation with customers. The Liebherr team accompanies them from the development of the solution-oriented product to delivery and far beyond. This is crucial with fibre composites, because the structure and individual DNA of the product are what counts in achieving the desired results.

Further steps in the scope of development

The company has already achieved noteworthy results, for example in field test trials in the mining sector. Liebherr can transfer this knowledge to other applications and further expand it. The goal is not a hybrid cylinder but a full-fledged CRP one. Although there are still a number of steps to be taken before this can be achieved, Liebherr already works on merging concepts between steel and fibre composite parts, for example, and tests the results. The implementation of CRP conversions in conjunction with steel components are applicable to other products in the portfolio. In the future, for example, piston accumulators can be wound from CRP. Here, too, complete CRP solutions are possible and are being systematically tested.