LiuGong Machinery Co., Ltd. has introduced the "I-Box" intelligent hydraulic system for its new generation CLG856H wheel loader. Traditional wheel loader hydraulic systems use a single pump to supply both the steering and working hydraulics via a priority valve. This often leads to energy wastage because the steering system demands priority flow even when heavy lifting is required, forcing the engine to work harder.
The I-Box system replaces the mechanical priority valve with an "Electronic Flow Distribution Controller." It utilizes two independent variable displacement piston pumps: one dedicated to steering and one dedicated to the boom/bucket cylinders. The controller monitors the joystick input and steering angle. When the operator is digging (high hydraulic load) and not steering, the steering pump's displacement is minimized, and its flow is diverted to the working hydraulics, doubling the lift speed.
The engineering breakthrough is the "Active Boom Cylinder Regeneration." In the lowering phase, the hydraulic oil from the piston side of the cylinder is normally dumped to the tank, creating heat and energy loss. The I-Box system uses a "Regeneration Valve Block" to redirect this oil back to the rod side of the cylinder. This creates a "power-assist" effect during lowering, reducing the load on the pump. Additionally, the system features "Cold-Start Pre-Warming." In sub-zero temperatures, the system automatically restricts pump displacement on startup, circulating the oil through a bypass valve to rapidly build up temperature before allowing full operation. This extends the life of seals and hoses, increasing machine reliability in cold regions.
