High-Torque Electric Drive Targets Shredder Efficiency

Baumüller Group will showcase its fully electric high-torque drive system for shredders at IFAT 2026, targeting recycling machine manufacturers and operators seeking higher efficiency and reduced maintenance.

The solution is based on the PowRex drive package, which combines DST2 high-torque motors with b maXX servo drives to deliver high performance and energy-efficient operation in demanding shredding applications.

Electric Drive Replaces Hydraulic Systems
The fully electric high-torque system is designed as an alternative to conventional hydraulic drives and standard asynchronous motor solutions. By eliminating hydraulic components such as hoses and motors, the system reduces mechanical complexity and removes the need for oil changes.

Compared to belt-driven or standard motor systems, the solution also eliminates wear-prone components such as belts and pulleys. This results in lower maintenance requirements, reduced downtime and improved machine availability.

The system is engineered to deliver high torque even at low speeds, supporting stable and efficient shredding of various materials.

Lower Operating Costs and Higher Availability
The combination of high throughput and reduced maintenance contributes to improved productivity and lower total operating costs. While high-torque electric drives may involve higher initial investment, Baumüller indicates that the efficiency gains and reduced servicing requirements enable a relatively short return on investment.

Fewer maintenance interventions also free up skilled personnel and reduce interruptions to production processes.

Integrated Control and Connectivity
Baumüller’s b maXX servo drives integrate control, motion and analysis functions directly within the drive system. This allows machine builders to implement control logic without requiring additional hardware layers.

The drives can also be integrated into third-party control systems and support common industrial communication protocols such as Profinet. This enables straightforward connection to PLC environments, including systems from Siemens.




Complete Drive System with Gear and Clutch Integration
The PowRex system can be combined with the Tevox gearbox and slip clutch solution developed by Nidec DESCH.

This integrated setup provides a coordinated powertrain consisting of motor, servo drive, gearbox and clutch. The optimized connection between the rotor shaft and the drive system improves power transmission and overall performance.

The system is being implemented in shredders such as the W5 and W8 series from WEIMA, including the W8.15 PowerLine model.




Retrofit Option for Existing Machines
In addition to new installations, the high-torque drive system can be used to modernize existing shredders. If the mechanical structure of a machine remains in good condition, operators can upgrade the drive system to improve efficiency and performance without replacing the entire machine.

This retrofit approach offers a cost-effective alternative with shorter implementation times, supporting more sustainable operation in recycling facilities.

Edited by Industrial Journalist, Romila DSilva, with AI assistance.