Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology has been introduced by Liebherr in its aim to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions and comply with EU Stage V standards.
As emissions regulations tighten worldwide, machinery manufacturers are rising to the challenge with innovative solutions.
Liebherr, a global leader in heavy equipment manufacturing, has taken a proactive approach to meet the increasing demands for emissions control. Its solution is a cutting-edge, self-developed emissions system designed to complement Liebherr engines and simplify the European Union’s Stage V process.
These emissions standards regulate the amount of pollutants from non-road mobile machinery (NRMM) such as construction equipment, agricultural machinery, and industrial engines.
The Stage V regulation, implemented in 2020, requires manufacturers to reduce emissions of:
- Particulate Matter (PM)
- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
- Carbon Monoxide (CO)
- Hydrocarbons (HC)
In response to stricter emissions standards, Liebherr has developed a proprietary injection system, along with a complete engine control system, ensuring the flexibility needed to adapt to a variety of emissions regulations across regions and countries.
A flexible approach
Liebherr’s approach offers unmatched versatility in emissions management.
The company’s standard basic engine can be easily adapted to meet the demands of diverse global markets, thanks to a modular design.
This enables small modifications or the addition of exhaust gas after-treatment systems to address different emissions regulations.
Liebherr’s self-designed systems ensure that the engine architecture remains unified across various models and regions, simplifying maintenance and reducing operational costs.
The Liebherr solution
Liebherr’s emissions control system consists of three core components: a DOC (Diesel Oxidation Catalyst) catalytic converter, an SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) catalytic converter, and an SCR-coated particulate filter.
Together, these elements form a robust yet maintenance-friendly solution that minimises downtime.
The new SCR Filter, in particular, is designed for easy access, enabling quick cleaning after 4500 working hours.
This critical service can be carried out at Liebherr’s own Reman centres, ensuring quality and precision throughout the maintenance process. Liebherr’s Reman program transforms used components into new parts in accordance with industry standards. It includes important components such as diesel engines, hydraulic components, gearboxes and lots more.
This system is perfect for the tunnelling industry, where Liebherr excavators are being utilised successfully.
By ensuring cleaner emissions while boosting uptime, Liebherr’s technology has become an integral part of operations in one of the most demanding environments for heavy machinery.
SCR-only advantages
What truly sets Liebherr apart in the world of emissions control is its SCR-only technology.
This emissions control method reduces NOx by injecting AdBlue into the exhaust system. The resulting chemical reaction converts NOx into harmless nitrogen and water vapour, significantly reducing air pollution.
Without the need for an oxidation catalyst or a particulate filter, this innovative system delivers a number of compelling benefits:
- Compact installation: The system saves valuable space during installation, an important consideration for machinery with limited room in the engine compartment.
- Reduced weight: The streamlined design results in a lighter overall system, contributing to better fuel efficiency and performance.
- Minimal maintenance: Thanks to the absence of a particulate filter, there’s no need for regular cleaning.
- Improved cooling efficiency: The omission of exhaust gas recycling reduces the cooling requirement, which in turn lowers engine compartment temperatures.
- More engine compartment space: With fewer components, there’s more room in the engine compartment, improving accessibility and serviceability.
Forward-looking and looking forward
There is growing emphasis in contracts that mandate the use of ‘greener’ machinery, reflecting an increasing awareness among businesses about their environmental impact.
Liebherr’s commitment to sustainability, cost efficiency, and operational excellence showcases that it’s possible to meet the toughest emissions standards without compromising performance or increasing operational costs.
Liebherr engine technology offers extended oil change intervals, reducing service requirements and downtime. This not only enhances productivity but also helps to minimise waste, further contributing to sustainability efforts.
For industries like tunnelling, where time is money and downtime can be expensive, Liebherr’s systems offer a straightforward and effective solution to the ongoing emissions control challenge.
Liebherr G8 crawler excavators
Several Liebherr equipment models across different categories are equipped with SCR-only technology. They include Liebherr’s Generation 8 (G8) crawler excavators.
These models, like the R 922, R 924, R 926, R 930, R 934, and R 938, are all equipped with Liebherr engines that have SCR-only technology.
In summary:
- R 922 G8 – Compact yet powerful, ideal for general construction
- R 924 G8 – Versatile for mid-sized projects, with improved stability
- R 926 G8 – Stronger digging force and increased efficiency
- R 930 G8 – Larger capacity, perfect for demanding excavation jobs
- R 934 and R 938 G8 – Heavy-duty models for large-scale earthmoving
The models come with enhanced power, stability, and operator comfort. Key improvements include:
- Optimised boom design – Increased digging force and stability
- Higher engine power – Improved fuel efficiency and performance
- Advanced hydraulics – Enhanced precision and responsiveness
- Modern operator cab – Better ergonomics, visibility, and controls
Liebherr’s SCR-only technology make the models a smart choice for contractors and fleet owners looking to reduce emissions without added complexity.