Objective
SUNCAR was the software development partner for the new PON Z-Line product line for Pon Equipment & Pon Rental Norway. In this development project, we can once again apply our specialized knowledge in software development for emission-free construction machinery and also gain new insights.
Project Goals
The starting point for the Z-line electric excavators was a standard Cat excavator, where everything related to diesel operation was replaced by electrical components. Parts of the counterweight corresponding to the weight of the batteries were removed, so the machine has the same weight and stability as a standard machine. Thus, the Z-line model looks almost identical to a standard machine externally.
Results
Charging
All machines can operate for 5-7 hours per charge. One hour of charging is sufficient for one hour of work if you use a 63A 400 VAC connection. The connection to the machine is on the right side of the machine, where a Marechal type plug is used. This is then connected via an adapter cable with a red standard plug to a standard construction site power box (IEC 60309).
Machines
Since the excavators are electrically powered, only the sound of metal against earth and stone can be heard. Engine noise is practically non-existent, and vibrations are minimal. A major difference is that the electric machine consumes no power once the levers are released, whereas the diesel machine still consumes fuel when idling. The cabin is heated by an electric heater and the hydraulic system. The Cat model is equipped with factory-installed Cat technology, which helps reduce emissions.
310 Z-Line (11.9-ton)
The 310 Z-Line is an advanced Cat 310 excavator weighing 11.9 tons. The machines have the same performance as the standard version (Cat 310) in terms of oil flow and engine power. The cabin is also unchanged, except for an additional screen that provides the operator with information from the electric powertrain at all times.
320 Z-Line (25.4-ton)
The Cat 320 Z-Line is a 25-ton machine developed from Caterpillar’s NextGen tracked excavator series. The Cat 320 Z-Line is a typical all-round machine used for loading trucks, digging, and grading on small and large sites. The breakout forces are the same as the diesel-powered 320. As with the diesel machine, it has a 1,150-liter digging bucket and can be used with a tiltrotator.
More info: https://www.zeppelin-cat.no/en-no/equipment/produkter
