Scandinavian success for Keestrack
New K5e diesel-electric scalper provides environmental and productivity benefits for Danish local authority
THE civil engineering department of the Danish municipality of Frederikshavn has replaced a mobile drum screen used for soil processing with a Keestrack K5e diesel-electric scalper with full electric plug-in option.
In addition to meeting the growing demand for recycled materials in the region, the municipality of Frederikshavn invested in the K5e mobile scalper for its mobile technology, cost savings and sustainability benefits. Supplied by Denmark-based Keestrack dealers TNS Imex of Løgumkloster, the 30-ton K5/K5e models represent the mid-range of the Keestrack scalper line.
An extensive choice of screening media for the 5,000mm x 1,500mm double-deck screen box featuring hydraulic screen angle adjustment, ensures the machine can work in a wide range of applications, from highly efficient rock scalping and soil processing at up to 450 tonnes/h, to the processing of required fractions to produce materials for resale.
For Park og Vej, the road and civil engineering department of the municipality of Frederikshavn, recycling construction waste and excavation bulk is amongst their key tasks, as well as being responsible for around 1,300km of roads and pavements across the region.
Having examined the various options and solutions on offer in the market, Park og Vej concluded that the Keestrack hybrid K5e mobile scalper would be the most suited machine for the local authority.
Gert Christensen, Park og Vej’s team leader for application technology and fleet equipment, said: ‘The municipality of Frederikshavn is committed to protecting the environment. When investing in new plant or equipment, we primarily assess the environmental impact and review the energy efficiency in addition to the technical requirements.’
One of the key drivers behind Park og Vej’s purchase of the Keestrack K5e is the hybrid diesel-electric drive concept of the mobile plant.
Mr Christensen continued: ‘We tested a wide range of machines on the market, but the diesel-electric full hybrid plug-in concept from Keestrack seemed to be the most ideal option. In full electric operation, all system functions are available without any performance or functional limitations. In conventional diesel-powered operation, we benefit from the independence of the track-mounted screen with significantly lower fuel consumption and emissions.’
At the heart of the K5e is an on-board 105kVA generator (connected to the diesel engine) which drives all electrical components (drum motors, lighting etc.), while all hydraulic componentry (plate apron feeder, lifting cylinders, tracks etc.) is powered by a separate 45kW E-motor/pump.
The hybrid diesel-electric drive concept also helps reduce peak loads and contributes to lower fuel consumption during diesel operation. Another key benefit of the plug-in electric technology incorporated in the K5e is the significant reduction of piping and oil volumes of the onboard hydraulics.
As with all Keestrack scalpers, the K5 series has been optimized for transportation; for example, all conveyors and other components can be hydraulically folded and ready for transport.
Since delivery of the Keestrack K5e for use at Park og Vej’s central recycling yard, the mobile plant is set to process around 10,000 tonnes of waste material a year in full electric plug-in operation. For the municipality of Frederikshavn, the scalper is delivering up to 100 tonnes/h in a typical soil processing operation.
Mr Christensen said he is delighted with the Keestrack machinery investment and hybrid diesel-electric drive technology, which will allow the Frederikshavn civil engineering department to benefit from lower running costs, a reduced carbon footprint and efficient and enhanced recycled aggregates productivity.
