For companies considering electrification, there’s a lot to recommend when making the switch. Benefits include potential tax incentives, increased ability to sell machines in regulated areas, environmental benefits, adherence to noise pollution requirements, performance enhancements, and more.
And, with electric-powered machinery now available across the board, being able to run leaner, cleaner, and more efficiently means companies of any size can take advantage of the benefits of electrification.
Once the decision has been made to either retrofit or reinvest in new equipment, the next step in the process is defining your needs with regards to your architecture: What is being electrified? What is the work function? What is the process being converted?
Taking the time to understand the functions undergoing electrification and designing a system that meets the needs of the business are the next crucial step in getting the most out of conversion.
Crafting a Solution
When it comes to electrification, there is no “one size fits all” solution. It’s a multi-step process that, once completed, means that the final specifications are appropriate for the task at hand. Careful planning makes for smoother implementation.
The Process
Step 1: Scope of Work. The research, or discovery, phase. Because every conversion is unique, it’s important to take the time to conduct a high-level review of the current process and understand the structure to determine where electrification fits into the strategy, and where it makes the most sense.
Step 2. Preliminary Review. Once a plan has been sketched out and the goals of the client understood, Applied Fluid Power engineers are available and can work side by side as an extension of your engineering team or key consultant. Together or separately, the team sketches solutions, including developing 3D CAD designs, BOM, and estimates for the project.
Step 3. Engineering Development. Here, Applied Fluid Power engineers review the plan with sales and the client to ensure that the plan makes sense within the client’s goals, their current process, and the desired end state. The end result is a detailed schematic that maximizes efficiency. Some projects may include building, programming, and testing prototypes along with subsequent analysis to ensure the solution will meet the task at hand.
Step 4. Engineering Review. With detailed plan in hand, Applied Fluid Power engineers meet with the customer’s engineers to really dig down into the details, understand the functions involved, and address any unforeseen issues before moving onto the design process.
Step 5. Design Process. Finally, the specs are detailed, energy capacity and voltage requirements outlined, and the proper equipment selected.
Step 6. Implementation and monitoring. With an approved design in hand, prototyping begins, with alpha and beta built. Once approved by the customer, production begins. From here, Applied Fluid Power provides ongoing diagnostic support and data management, along with any redesigns, upgrades, warranty, and/or programming support.
Design Innovation for Market Leaders
Advanced machine electro-hydraulics design continues to grow in sophistication, along with associated components:
- Electronics
- Complex wiring harnesses
- Switches and connection points
- Telemetric monitoring
- Remote steering (electric steer-by-wire)
In addition, data recording to a cloud for remote diagnostics and control to manage each of the machine’s moving parts means increased efficiencies in monitoring, resulting in faster response times and fewer downtimes.
The result is a custom-designed, high-tech, low-impact, efficient solution that enhances your business and performance strategies and can positively impact your bottom line.
To find out how we can put our expertise and experience to work for you, contact us.
