Annual Report 2020
Favourable growth in Asia
Sales in the Components product segment fell slightly in 2020. This mainly affected combustion engines used in decentralised energy systems and the agriculture and forestry sectors in Europe.
By contrast, Asia saw a significant increase in sales, primarily driven by the high demand in the wind energy sector. A key highlight was the delivery of 600 main bearings to a leading OEM to be used in the manufacture of wind turbines with a capacity of 4 MW. The components were delivered just under a year after production of the parts began. Liebherr also received a sizeable order to provide azimuth thrusters for gondola drives on wind turbines. The thrusters were manufactured in the Liebherr plant in Dalian (China). In addition, Liebherr main bearings were used in large tunnel construction projects all around the world. A future-oriented highlight on the way to low-emissions navigation was the serial delivery of what is currently the world's largest worm slewing drive unit for sail hybrid drives.
Projects implemented in 2020 and upcoming projects boost our product segment's global presence and focus on forward-looking, environmentally friendly technologies and solutions.
Innovating and helping to shape megatrends
The product segment is actively helping to shape megatrends such as digitalisation and connectivity through the development of its own Internet of Things (IoT) solutions and by establishing strategic partnerships. In addition to the various services provided by the Test Centre for Electronics, Liebherr also offers electronic manufacturing services (EMS) to its customers. The new SMD manufacturing testing system and the implementation of new test concepts have produced quality improvements and reduced lead times in electronic component manufacturing.
Innovative hydraulic cylinder solutions for mobile cranes were also a standout feature of the year. The grant of a new patent enabled Liebherr to implement a cylinder piston design, which allows for the production of a hybrid version with carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP). New simulators were also fitted with the friction-optimised cylinder solutions. For the first time, the Liduro frequency converter system was designed as a complete control system with integrated LES 300 energy storage for use with fuel cells. Furthermore, the development of alternative injection concepts to be used for green hydrogen and synthetic fuels began.
Work on a new components plant began in China to meet demand from the Asian market. In addition, preparations for gearbox assembly in India were initiated. Liebherr is also using new manufacturing technologies and equipment to continue rolling out the production of slewing bearings for high-output onshore and offshore wind turbines.
The product segment anticipates an upturn in future sales, partially due to a new partnership agreement on the supply of V12 gas engines for a prestigious global power company.