Kleemann is deploying a completely electric system train in Sweden. The Swabian manufacturer of mobile crushing and screening technology wants to prove that electrification also works in stationary continuous operation. The test is running under real conditions – an important step for an industry that traditionally relies on diesel aggregates.
The system train consists of several components: a mobile crushing plant and a screening plant that are operated completely via grid connection. Kleemann dispenses with diesel engines and relies on direct electricity supply. This significantly reduces operating costs but makes the systems dependent on local grid infrastructure. In Sweden, this is not a problem – the country has well-developed power supply and is strongly committed to electrification.
For operators of recycling and demolition plants, the calculation is clear: diesel costs, electricity costs significantly less. For a mobile crushing plant with 200 operating hours per month, consumption quickly reaches 3,000 to 5,000 liters of diesel. At current prices, that's 4,500 to 7,500 euros per month – just for fuel. When operated electrically, energy costs drop to a fraction, depending on electricity prices and contract.
The technical challenge lies elsewhere: power peaks must be absorbed, the grid connection must be right, and the systems need different controls than with diesel operation. For the test, Kleemann uses existing machines that have been retrofitted for grid operation. The experiences from Sweden are to be incorporated into the development of future series.
The Swedish market is ideal for electrification projects: high electricity availability, strict environmental regulations, and an industry that quickly adopts new technologies. However, what works here cannot be transferred one-to-one to other markets. In Germany, many construction sites lack grid connections; in Austria and Switzerland, mobile systems are often used in mountain regions – electricity supply becomes tight there.
Nevertheless: the test shows that electrification of mobile processing systems is technically feasible. For stationary recycling yards, quarries with grid connections, or large construction sites with their own power infrastructure, this is a real alternative. Those planning now should consider grid connection from the outset – then the investment pays for itself through operating costs.
Kleemann has not yet published further details about the practical test. Concrete figures on throughput, power consumption, and availability would be important for a sound economic calculation. The market is waiting for reliable data – only then can it be assessed whether the fully electric system train is more than a flagship project.
The electrification of construction sites is making progress – not only with excavators and wheel loaders, but also with stationary systems. Kleemann shows that the industry is taking the topic seriously. Whether the concept prevails will ultimately be decided by economic viability in daily operation.
