Case Study: Liebherr achieves safer, more productive wheeled excavator operation with Eaton steer-by-joystick steering solution

Eaton's innovative steering solution increases productivity, maneuverability and safety for Liebherr wheeled excavator

Liebherr, a leading global manufacturer of construction machinery, faced a challenge integrating a safe and regulation-compliant electrohydraulic steer-by-joystick system into its wheeled excavator. They needed to improve operator productivity and reduce fatigue in tight spaces while ensuring seamless and safe transitions from the new system to the traditional steering. Liebherr engaged Eaton for its application expertise to design this innovative solution.

Eaton developed a tailored load sensing valve block using its Cetop and screw-in cartridge valves (SiCV) to create a dual-mode steering solution. This allowed operators to work efficiently with joysticks at low speeds and switch automatically to the traditional wheel for safety at higher speeds or with a slight turn of the wheel. The solution increased operator productivity and safety, met all regulatory requirements, and was delivered on an aggressive schedule, exceeding customer expectations.

Liebherr