CFRP-wrapped hydraulic cylinder by Liebherr

CFRP hybrid cylinder

Hydraulic cylinders with carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP)

Lightweight construction in hydraulics – weight-optimized hydraulic cylinders

Hydraulic cylinders are indispensable in many areas of application because they enable high power transmission in a small space. The high requirements for strength and rigidity make the use of fiber composite materials attractive.

The combination of experience in cylinder development and expertise in the field of fiber composites creates optimal conditions for innovative solutions. Hybrid cylinders with CFRP winding offer a weight reduction while maintaining the same installation situation, which enables easy replacement without changing the device design.

Two hydraulic cylinders wrapped in CFRP by Liebherr

Close-up of two hydraulic cylinders wrapped in CFRP by Liebherr

Why use CFRP hybrid cylinders?

Increased efficiency through increased digging performance and handling capacity
Optimised tool-attachment dimensions
Lower CO2 emissions during operation
Compliance with permissible axle loads
Longer booms
Interchangeability without fundamental modifications to the machine
Tribological properties preserved
Reduced cylinder tube expansion during pressure peaks

Two Liebherr employees planning and discussing CFRP products

Our expertise for your solutions

An entire process all in one place - from the initial idea and design to the final component and series.
Highly customisable: optimal selection of raw material combinations and process parameters with regard to cost, quality and quantity.
Processing of raw fibres in the wet winding process: no need for intermediate processes such as weaving or pre-impregnation of the fibres.
A skilful team that develops flexible solutions catering to your needs.

Close-up of the CFRP winding on the hydraulic cylinder by Liebherr

Why use Carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP)?

High strength
High rigidity
Low density
Good corrosion behaviour
Good damping behaviour
Good fatigue behaviour
X-ray transparency
Customisable properties
Adjustable thermal expansion

A wide range of applications

Earthmoving and mining

Due to the weight reduction of individual components, larger attachments can be used, thus increasing digging performance. This results in reduced emissions and more efficient working methods.

Liebherr crawler material handling machine works at the harbour

Material handling technology

Notably under tough working conditions, hybrid cylinders withstand dirt, moisture and loads caused by high speeds.

Here again, the use of CRP makes it possible to have longer booms and increase load capacities.

Liebherr excavator and crane on a construction site

Crane construction

Following the principle of "higher, faster, further", hybrid cylinder solutions optimise the load capacity, operating heights and speeds. They also help to reduce the overall weight of the machine. This has a positive effect, for example, in achieving road approvals.

This is how your cfrp hybrid cylinder is made

Liebherr cfrp development process step 1

Mechanical production

Mechanical production of cylinder tube (steel/metal) and optional welding of cylinder ends
The cylinder tube serves as winding core and at the same time provides a high-quality functional surface