Hägglunds, maker of world-renowned direct drive systems, is taking a ‘quantum leap’ with its latest technical investment. A state-of-the-art lab lets engineers test the motors at full scale and deliver unprecedented data to AI systems and computational models.
Hägglunds, part of Bosch Rexroth, manufactures powerful direct-drive motors used globally in material handling, recycling, and marine industries, among others. Development and manufacturing of its hydraulic motors is carried out on-site at Örnsköldsvik, Sweden.
Major investment
The new laboratory represents a major investment in advanced technology. Covering an area of 1 500 square meters, it includes four newly equipped test cells where one or more motors can be mounted for various types of measurements and tests. Hydraulic power is supplied by a pump room, featuring several pumps that can be used individually or together to create extremely high pressure.
The lab is equipped with a control system that delivers a wealth of new data about the motors and ongoing tests, enabling advanced analysis. The pump room is the heart, and the control system is the brain.
‘Together, they give us entirely new capabilities to test, measure and produce the data our customers need to make their investment decisions,’ says Daniel Kajhager, head of R&D.
Innovation as a foundation
Hägglunds motors have been refined for over 60 years and are known for their high operational reliability, points out Karl Lindblom, company vice president. ‘Innovation requires the right environment – that is precisely what we are building here.’
He observes that, given today’s rapid technological development, there is great potential in offering even more precise data to customers and ensuring high quality.
Sustainability and energy savings
Sustainability has been a guiding principle in the project, enabling energy savings of 200 MWh per year thanks to new, energy efficient solutions. Furthermore, the lab offers new opportunities to test more environmentally friendly technologies such as renewable hydraulic and lubricating oils, which are in high demand across the market.
The laboratory is described as one of the most advanced of its kind. ‘Notably, it strengthens ties with academia, giving new energy to Hägglunds’ long-standing collaboration with technical universities. It’s a dream for many engineers,’ adds Lindblom.
‘We have chosen the best the market offers today, to meet needs we may not even be aware of yet. We now have future-proof technology that allows us to take the next step.’
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