Vollert’s new GreenTech robot promises impressive ‘e-power’ high-torque output right from the start, and greater efficiency. At InnoTrans in Berlin (September 23–26, 2014, hall 23b, booth 304), the experts from Weinsberg will be presenting not only new stationary solutions for in-plant shunting and loading but also, for the first time, an exceptionally environmentally friendly generation of hybrid drives for independently operating shunting robots.
As a provider of innovation, Vollert has been developing economical shunting and loading systems for in-plant and connecting railway systems for decades. These include stationary rope conveyors, heavy-duty transfer carriages, travelling platforms, as well as independently operating shunting solutions. Vollert shunting systems ensure that logistics processes in refineries, mines, ports, steel and cement works are reliable and efficient. With the new generation of robot drives, an exceptionally economical and environmentally friendly technology will be showcased at this year’s InnoTrans.
LESS DIESEL,NOISE,AND SOOT
The new diesel-electric drive system with automotive operation promises to considerably reduce fuel consumption. The operating speed of the diesel engine continually adapts to the power required at a given moment thanks to the combined alternating and direct current setup. The electric drives are designed with four-quadrant operation and can be used as generators or motors. With this design, the generator is linked to the diesel engine via a transfer case and the electric motor is combined as an axle drive with spur gear unit. This makes it possible to fit smaller diesel engines without compromising performance while at the same time further lowering fuel consumption.
The electric drive not only has an exceptionally high level of efficiency but also guarantees consistently high torque. The power is available immediately at lower speeds and gives the shunting robot a completely new driving feel with incredible thrust from standstill. The high efficiency reduces fuel consumption as well as NOX and CO2 emissions. In conjunction with a particle filter, 99% fewer soot particles are also emitted.
NEW TECHNOLOGY PROVES EFFECTIVE IN DAILY OPERATION
Zementwerk Hatschek in Gmunden, Austria is now home to a DER 120 shunting robot with the new drive technology that loads products safely and in an environmentally-friendly manner. With a tractive force of 120kN, the 180kW diesel engine delivers ample manoeuvring capability. The water- cooled, six-cylinder, in-line engine with turbo charger, charge-air cooling, and external exhaust gas recirculation ensures compliance with the exhaust emission standard EU Stage III B or Tier 4 with particle filter, with the option of EU Stage IV. The solid frame is a robust welded construction that complies with the applicable DIN and railway standards. The comfortable cab has ergonomically arranged controls, air conditioning, and effective sound insulation.
WIDE RANGE OF AUTOMATED SHUNTING SYSTEMS
Vollert’s independent shunting solutions range from a powerful, compact, all-wheel drive vehicle with a towing capacity of up to 750 t through to two-, four-, and six-axle versions with a towing capacity of up to 8,000 tonnes. Manoeuvring and driving speeds of 5cm/s to 40km/h can be selected as required, as can other equipment options such as track width, suspension, bogie, radio remote control, compressed air supply, sanding, and shunting couplings of all kinds. Vollert offers ATEX-certified technology packages for shunting and loading procedures in explosion protection work areas, for example, when loading highly explosive hazardous materials.
ABOUT VOLLERT ANLAGENBAU GMBH
As a provider of innovation,Vollert has developed economical shunting systems for in-plant and connecting railway systems. Stationary, rope-mounted shunting systems from Vollert have been used for manoeuvring railway carriages and trains ever since the 1950s. As a technology leader,Vollert also offers independently operating shunting systems (shunting robots), heavy-duty transfer carriages, and travelling platforms for reliable and efficient processes in refineries, mines, ports, steel and cement works, explosion protection areas, railway washing facilities, and maintenance centres.
System solutions from Vollert are used in over 80 countries, with subsidiaries in Asia, South America, and Russia further increasing sales activities in those parts of the world. The company employs some 250 personnel at its headquarters in Weinsberg.