NorrDigi from Norrhydro optimizes the movement of hydraulic cylinders with force and speed. It stores energy in accumulators that drive four-chamber hydraulic cylinders. In idle movements, generated energy goes back to the accumulators. This method also saves energy compared to traditional hydraulic cylinders using throttled flows for control, which consumes energy, generates heat and requires cooling.

Piston accumulators can both store and recuperate energy for the NorrDigi system which helps to create a more energy efficient hydraulic system. Source: NorrhydroWhile the four-chamber technology is not new, the electronic control is. The variable flow of Norr-Digi’s four-chamber cylinders along with the hydraulic motors are on a common pressure and return line to the accumulators. The four chambers make it possible for the cylinders to handle sixteen different movements by one high-pressure and one low-pressure line. The technology provides fast action with significantly less force than a traditional drive.

NorrDigi offers multiple benefits that begin with increased productivity, greater fuel efficiency, and improved energy recovery; reduced carbon dioxide emissions and power demand; smaller components or elimination of some components; and cost savings on a system level. Preventive maintenance improves system reliability and lessens downtime. The system gathers huge amounts of data that can be used for a variety of purposes.

"The NorrDigi solution can be applied to various application areas, such as excavators, different kinds of material handling and mining machines, construction, and forestry machinery - not to forget marine applications," said Teemu Sarvijärvi, technology development manager of Norrhydro.

The NorrDigi design process includes simulation, concepting, prototyping, serial production and technical support to assure a highly functional solution.

Norrhydro developed the NorrDigi with the University of Tampere and Volvo Construction Equipment, and featured the intelligent digital control system at CONEXPO 2023.