Evaluating an electric battery for energy storage in a parallel hybrid thinning harvester

This research assesses the feasibility of employing an electric battery as an energy storage medium in the parallel hybrid powertrain of a thinning harvester, proposing it as a more economical substitute for traditional supercapacitors. An AH6 thinning harvester incorporating a battery-hybrid system was observed during felling tasks across three combustion engine speeds: 1700 rpm, 1800 rpm, and 1900 rpm. These three modes were selected in an effort to get as close as possible to the optimal RPM of 1500. Battery energy accumulation rose by 0.06 kWh at both 1700 rpm and 1800 rpm; in contrast, it declined by 0.002 kWh at 1900 rpm. Multi-criteria evaluation of felling regimes substantiated the electric battery viability as an energy storage option for thinning harvesters. Peak efficacy emerged at reduced engine speeds, coinciding with the maximum torque output of the combustion engine. These outcomes bear substantial relevance for curbing emissions and operational expenses in thinning forestry practices.