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Liebherr launch RE 22 M railroad excavator

Liebherr has expanded its railroad excavator range with the new RE 22 M Litronic, its first machine in the 22 to 25.7-tonne operating weight class.

The machine was unveiled at InnoTrans and uses the 120kW engine from the A 922 Rail, combined with Liebherr’s hydraulic system. The RE 22 M is intended for rail construction and maintenance applications and retains technology from the company’s existing railroad excavator range. The machine has a standard rear swing radius of 2,000mm, increasing to 2,110mm with an optional heavier counterweight package, subject to approval. It also features a redesigned dual cab and Liebherr’s latest INTUSI operating concept.

New rail undercarriage

A key feature of the RE 22 M is its newly developed rail undercarriage, which is fitted as standard and is currently the subject of a patent application.

The hydrostatic rail-wheel drive allows the machine to travel with the undercarriage lowered and the boom raised, meeting Category 9A requirements. Alternatively, when fitted with road tyres, the undercarriage can be raised so the tyres run directly on the rails, providing traction while travelling under Category 9C. The rail axle produces up to 50kN of tractive force and, subject to country-specific approval, allows travel speeds of up to 40km/h. In an emergency, the machine can also be towed at speeds of up to 60km/h. An oscillating axle locks during working operations to increase stability and remains free to move while travelling, helping maintain traction and ride quality.

For applications requiring additional lifting capacity, the RE 22 M can also be fitted with a centre-mounted two-point support system. The compact design keeps the supports close to the machine when extended, limiting the additional width while increasing stability.

Redesigned cab and upper structure

The RE 22 M retains the upper structure of the A 922 Rail, including ground-level access for routine maintenance and servicing. Different counterweight options are available to suit individual applications. The redesigned dual cab includes a dedicated driver's position in the upper section and a Comfort seat as standard. The INTUSI operating system also integrates controls previously located on the steering column into the main display, removing the separate control panel and improving visibility around the cab.

120kW engine and 440 litres/min hydraulic flow

The RE 22 M uses a Liebherr variable-displacement double pump with independent control circuits, providing a combined flow rate of 2 x 220 litres/min.

The hydraulic system allows attachments to be operated independently of the excavator’s working and travelling movements. A second high-pressure circuit also allows three hydraulic functions on specialist attachments to be controlled directly. The machine is powered by the 120kW engine used in the A 922 Rail, providing a common powertrain component within Liebherr’s railroad excavator range.