With the new eCSM 100 compact, Bauer Maschinen GmbH is introducing a fully electric machine for cutter-soil mixing (CSM), ideal for applications in densely built-up urban areas. It was developed in close collaboration with Seiwa Renewal Works Co Ltd, a specialist foundation engineering company within Japan’s Taisei Group.

In CSM, the existing soil is loosened using rotating cutting wheels and mixed on site with a cement slurry. This creates a soil-cement mixture that can be used, for example, in the construction of cut-off walls. The process is applied, among other things, when excavation pits need to be sealed against groundwater ingress or when specific areas of the subsoil need to be stabilised.

Compact design, deep reach

Thanks to its side-cutter configuration, the eCSM 100 compact can operate even in extremely confined spaces. The machine achieves mixing depths of up to 70 m, combining a small footprint with considerable working depths.

The next-generation tandem cutter system is also designed to ensure an efficient mixing process. Optimised material flow and improved flap kinematics complement Bauer Maschinen’s BCM gearbox technology.

“With the eCSM 100 compact, we have translated the requirements of demanding urban construction sites into a machine concept. Our key objective was to combine compact dimensions, deep mixing capabilities and a fully electric drive without compromising performance or reliability,” said Christian Riedl, product manager at Bauer Maschinen.

Electrified upper carriage

At the heart of the eCSM 100 compact is its electrified upper carriage, which is based on a cable-powered base carrier specifically designed for electric operation. The machine produces no local exhaust emissions when operating electrically, and the sound power level of the upper carriage is half that of its diesel-powered counterpart. The result is a significantly quieter working environment, making it particularly suitable for projects near residential buildings and sensitive infrastructure.

“Our projects require a high degree of precision in execution within limited space. At the same time, we must minimise noise and vibration and meet high safety standards. The compact design, side-cutter configuration, and fully electric drive of the eCSM 100 compact open up possibilities for us that were difficult to achieve with conventional CSM machines,” explained Nobuo Otaka, executive officer and project manager at Seiwa Renewal Works.

It’s not just operation on the construction site that presents challenges for machine operators; transporting the equipment to the site does, too. That’s why Bauer designed the eCSM 100 compact with efficient mobilisation in mind. The machine can be disassembled into transport-optimised components. The maximum transport weight per unit is 30 t. An integrated jack-up system facilitates on-site handling and setup.

The field test was carried out at Bauer Maschinen’s facility in Aresing, Germany. In the presence of Seiwa Renewal Works representatives, two CSM panels were successfully constructed to a depth of 25 m.

All images: Bauer Group