On the Feasibility of Electrification for Large Mobile Cranes

Abstract

Trends towards vehicle electrification to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and increase drive train efficiency have led vehicle manufacturers to seek out paths towards gradual hybridization. For heavy duty construction vehicles, electrification consists of two principle components: electric hybridization of the vehicle carrier and the vehicle's auxiliary function. Economic and physical feasibility for the transition to electrical replacements for critical system components is important for the gradual development of electrified systems. In this paper, we present an investigation into multiple pathways for the hybridization of mobile cranes paired with simulations that analyze the feasibility of system electrification. ADVISOR was used to compare the feasibility of hybrid topologies for the vehicle carrier of a crane using approximate emissions, fuel economy, and efficiency. Analysis of the feasibility of transitioning to an electric motor for the crane's auxiliary function was performed using ANSYS TwinBuilder. Issues concerning satisfying the current draw of electric motors for both simulations point to currently available energy storage systems as the main factor hindering the electrification of mobile crane systems without significant redesign due to the initial cost, upkeep, and lack of energy density.