3 Heavy machinery trends for 2023
Did you know that, globally, over £8 trillion is spent annually on construction activity? That figure is projected to continue growing! With a large proportion of this including investment in technology for the heavy machinery industry, find out the top 3 trends for the heavy duty diesel engine and construction industry over the next year.
1. Increased development of hydrogen fuel cell technology
Why is hydrogen fuel cell technology being developed?
Hydrogen fuel cell technology isn’t actually new, however, its only in the past decade that it has progressed enough in order to be used for heavy duty machinery applications. This offers a possible solution to the sustainability issues which have arisen within the sector.
In 2022, Cummins and Komatsu stated that they would collaborate on developing hydrogen fuel cells for the mining industry, and the proposed benefits look great in theory- increased efficiency in comparison to diesel and reliability to rival that of its diesel counterparts.
The technology is similar to that of a battery, however hydrogen fuel cells do not run down or require charging. Additionally, the only by-products produced are heat and water, offering hopes for a sustainable revolution within the heavy duty machinery industry.
What’s the forecast?
While the benefits look promising on paper, there is an issue to be raised with hydrogen fuel cell technology: storage. Hydrogen requires huge tanks for storage, and methods involved in the process, such as liquefying or pressuring, often rely on non-renewable energy sources. However, expect more storage solutions and investment into renewable energy sources over the next few years!
2. Battery powered construction machinery gains popularity
Why is battery powered construction machinery gaining popularity?
Taking a look at the likes of Volvo’s ‘Add Silence’ campaign and Komatsu’s hybrid excavator systems, it’s clear that battery powered construction machinery is gaining traction across the diesel engine giants of the industry.
The technology involves lithium ion batteries, which charge and discharge to generate an electric current. The benefits include minimised noise, reduced vibration and, crucially, a zero-emissions way forward for the industry.
What’s the forecast?
With an increased interest in battery powered heavy duty machinery throughout 2022, the future of such machinery looks promising. The issue, however, is that there is currently a gap between smaller and larger machinery when it comes to battery power. Overall, though, the technology is headed in the right direction, and investors will be looking to jump onto the trend in the next year or so.
3. Artificial intelligence and machine learning
What are the applications of AI for the heavy duty machinery sector?
AI is starting to make itself visible across the majority of industries- and heavy duty construction is no exception! With purported safety benefits, data collection, and a method by which businesses will smoothen the transition to a more autonomous future, AI for construction is emblematic of adaptation and evolution across sectors.
A leading developer of AI and machine learning for heavy machinery is Ception, who unveiled early in 2022 plans for their innovative solution for mobile heavy machinery: ‘MineCept’. Ception have said:
‘’MineCept is an innovative AI solution for mobile heavy machinery. Using Ception Core’s cutting-edge sensing, computer vision, and deep learning technologies, we provide a solution that generates immediate value with a safer, more productive and more sustainable operation.’’
What’s the forecast?
AI is still largely in its learning phases when it comes to construction applications, but its future looks very promising. While unlikely to replace the human workforce, AI can support diesel engine applications and other emerging technologies, reducing large and expensive errors, improving safety, and boosting site efficiency. The key for businesses will be to assess their goals and needs in order to apply AI and machine learning to where it will be most effective- the sooner the better!
There are a number of trends emerging within the diesel engine industry, and at Jaytrac we’re always here to help. Whether you need tailored advice or recommendations on parts for you heavy duty diesel engine, we have a whole range of quality replacement parts available, including parts for Cat, Volvo and Komatsu machines. To find out more, please call us on 01604 491 133, email us at sales@jaytrac.co.uk or fill out our online enquiry form.