The EEP has been developed within the framework of the research project TEAM, which aims to create technology for energy-efficient drives of mobile machines.

According to Bauer, multiple measures to increase energy efficiency are combined in the EEP and coordinated with each other in such a way that a significant increase in efficiency, and therefore in productivity, is achieved. Extensive before-and-after comparisons prove that up to 30% fuel saving is achieved in the winch operation of rotary drilling rigs and up to 20% saving is achieved in usual practice while drilling, the company said.

In addition, the implemented measures also lead to noise reduction during operation. Bauer stated that the independent operation of multiple functions allows easier handling of the drilling rig and ensures efficient operation.

Bauer has re-engineered the drive system of the main winch of a rotary drilling rig. The new system now makes it possible to recover the energy released during the lowering of the tool. Thus, the fuel consumption can be reduced, especially when drilling deep boreholes.

Further benefits are increased efficiency during lifting, higher speed and independent parallel operation of several functions (e.g. main winch, feed, swivels and rotary drive).

Energy consumption by all ancillary devices, such as fan drives and pressure supply units, and the diesel engine controls has been optimised.

A modified Bauer BG 30 PremiumLine rotary drilling rig was used in normal operation on a Bauer Spezialtiefbau construction site for several months. The machine showed reliable operation with high productivity and low fuel consumption, the company stated.