Hubbry Logo
HydremaHydremaMain
Open search
Hydrema
Community hub
Hydrema
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Hydrema
Hydrema
from Wikipedia

Hydrema is a manufacturer of earth moving machines based in Støvring, Denmark, founded in 1959. They are specialized in the manufacturing of high-quality machines and earth moving equipment. A variety of models are produced, including dump trucks, backhoe loaders and wheeled excavators, as well as two wheeled excavators and one dump truck for rail road use. Since 1996 they have also produced a mine clearing vehicle.

Key Information

Hydremas headquarters are based in Støvring, where they have both their administration and a large part of production. Beyond that, Hydrema also has a factory in Weimar, Germany, responsible for a large part of the production as well. Hydrema also has sales- and service facilities in Denmark, Germany, Norway, Sweden, France, United Kingdom, United States, and dealers in 18 other countries.

History

[edit]

In 1959, Aksel Kyed and Kjeld W. Jensen started the company "Kyed and Werner Jensen", which at that time were involved in two different business areas, district heating and the fabrication of hydraulic digging equipment.

In 1960, the company was split, and Kjeld W. Jensen started Hydrema. Back then the headquarters were placed in Aalborg.

In 1962, the company moved to Støvring. At that time Hydrema had 15 workers and an area of 320 m2.

In 1971, a subsidiary was established in Norway, followed by Sweden in 1979, the former West Germany in 1981, England in 1985 and France in 1988. The United States, Australia, and Poland, are among the countries that import machines from the Hydrema factories in Denmark and from 1997 in Germany.

In 1980, Hydrema started producing their own machines from scratch. They started with the Hydrema 800-series, which were a new line of backhoe loaders produced fully in-house. Except for the engines, made by Perkins Engines in England (Today most machines are fitted with Cummins engines, though). Before 1980, Hydrema bought tractors from companies like Volvo, and mounted their own hydraulic equipment to the tractors.

In 1983, Hydrema started producing their own dump trucks and in a short period in the late 1980s, they also produced mobile building cranes.

In 1990, the Hydrema 800-series were replaced by the Hydrema 900-series, which had a new chassis and more powerful axles and digging arm (backhoe).

Hydrema mine clearing vehicle

In 1996, Hydrema started the production of a new mine clearing vehicle, named the Hydrema MCV 910. It can safely clear big mine areas in a short amount of time.

In 1997, Hydrema bought the Weimar-Werk Baumaschinen, and thereby acquired production facilities in Germany. In Støvring, the production and administration area is about 16.500 m2, while the facilities in Weimar are 20.000 m2.

In 1998, Hydrema launched their unique Hydrema MPV 900. It was a Multi Purpose Vehicle, which was able to switch tools, like a telescopic arm or a digging arm.

In 2004, Hydrema mine-clearing vehicle (MCV) was used by the Indian Army for 'proving' operations to clear personnel or anti-tank mines with up to 10 kg explosive weight.[1]

In 2006, Hydrema expanded into the defence industry through a counter purchasing deal with the Swedish Hägglunds, which is a part of BAE Systems. Hydrema was to produce, mount and integrate 45 turrets for the Danish Army's new CV9035 Infantry Fighting Vehicle.

Products

[edit]

Dump Trucks:

  • Hydrema DT6
  • Hydrema 707G
  • Hydrema 707G Power+
  • Hydrema 912G
  • Hydrema 912GS
  • Hydrema 912HM
  • Hydrema 922G
  • Hydrema 922GS
  • Hydrema 922G 2.55
  • Hydrema 922HM

Backhoe Loaders:

  • Hydrema 906G
  • Hydrema 908G
  • Hydrema 926G
  • Hydrema 928G

Wheeled Excavators:

  • Hydrema MX14G
  • Hydrema MX16G
  • Hydrema MX17G
  • Hydrema MX18G
  • Hydrema MX20G

Rail:

Rail Exacavators:

  • Hydrema MX16G Rail
  • Hydrema MX20G Rail

Rail Dump Truck:

  • Hydrema 912GS Rail

Defence:

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia

Hydrema is a family-owned Danish manufacturer of earthmoving and construction machinery, founded in 1959 by engineer Kjeld Werner Jensen in Aalborg and headquartered in Støvring. The company specializes in developing and producing innovative, high-performance equipment, including articulated dump trucks, backhoe loaders, wheeled excavators, rail machines, and specialized defense vehicles, with a focus on hydraulic technology and durability for demanding applications. Hydrema has expanded globally from its Danish roots, maintaining a commitment to quality and customer-centric design in the construction, mining, and infrastructure sectors.

History

Founding and Early Development (1959–1970s)

Hydrema was established in 1959 in , , by Kjeld Werner Jensen, a 29-year-old specializing in . The company name derives from "Hydrauliske Entreprenør Maskiner," reflecting its initial focus on hydraulic construction machinery. Jensen launched operations from a modest workshop, driven by a vision to innovate earthmoving equipment through advanced hydraulic systems that enhanced functionality and efficiency. Early development centered on pioneering machines like "Fantomet" (The Phantom), Hydrema's inaugural product, which introduced revolutionary hydraulic features for tasks in the early . Rapid demand prompted expansion; by 1962, the firm outgrew its facilities and relocated to larger premises. During the , Hydrema shifted production to Støvring, solidifying its base for manufacturing articulated s and related earthmoving vehicles, including the MBC 800 model as its first design emphasizing a multi-bearing for durability. Through the 1970s, Hydrema continued refining hydraulic innovations, producing vintage models such as the Backloader and R12, which built on the Phantom's legacy to serve agricultural and construction sectors amid Denmark's post-war infrastructure growth. The family-owned enterprise maintained a commitment to quality engineering, establishing a foundation for specialized equipment without external ownership changes during this period.

Expansion and International Growth (1980s–2000s)

In the 1980s, Hydrema achieved significant product innovation with the launch of its 800 series backhoe loaders, a hybrid wheel loader-excavator design that integrated advanced hydraulic systems and set new benchmarks for versatility and performance in earthmoving operations. This series, beginning with models like the Hydrema 805, enabled the company to capture greater market share in construction and quarrying sectors across Europe, building on earlier exports and driving revenue growth through enhanced reliability and operator efficiency. Concurrently, Hydrema diversified into defense applications in 1986 by developing specialized mine-clearing vehicles, adapting its hydraulic expertise to produce rugged, remote-controlled machines for demining tasks, which opened new revenue streams and international contracts in conflict zones. The 1990s marked a phase of strategic manufacturing expansion, highlighted by the 1997 acquisition of Weimar-Werk Baumaschinen in , which provided Hydrema with an additional production facility dedicated to wheel loaders and expanded overall capacity to meet rising global demand. This move reduced reliance on the Danish plant in Støvring and facilitated closer proximity to key European markets, enabling faster delivery and customized production for export-oriented growth. By the early , Hydrema had solidified its international presence through a network of subsidiaries in —building on 1970s establishments in and —and dealers in over 18 countries, including exports to , , and , with annual production scaling to support diversified applications in and projects.

Recent Milestones and Adaptations (2010s–Present)

In the , Hydrema focused on refining its core product lines to meet evolving regulatory and operational demands, including the integration of more efficient powertrains and enhanced durability for articulated dump trucks. The company introduced updates to models like the 912 series, emphasizing compact design and off-road performance suitable for urban and confined sites. By the late decade, Hydrema launched the 707G in , powered by a F3.8 Performance Series engine delivering improved torque and , with initial unveilings at industry events like Bauma. Entering the 2020s, Hydrema accelerated adaptations to stringent Stage V emissions standards, launching the 912G series in 2020, which incorporated a engine compliant with these regulations while maintaining a 10-tonne payload and superior maneuverability with a 6.1-meter . In 2021, the MX series wheeled excavators received upgrades, including 15% increased engine torque for enhanced digging power. By 2022, the G-series loaders were updated based on customer feedback, featuring improved , cabs, and versatility for multi-tasking in environments. These developments reflect Hydrema's emphasis on customer-driven and to sustain competitiveness in global earthmoving markets.

Products

Articulated Dump Trucks

Hydrema manufactures articulated s optimized for earthmoving in , quarrying, and environments, prioritizing high capacity relative to low unladen weight, which enables operation on soft or sensitive terrains with minimal ground pressure. These vehicles feature articulated steering for superior maneuverability in confined spaces, three-axle configurations on larger models for stability, and diesel engines compliant with Stage V emissions standards. The 707G series targets lighter-duty applications with a 6.5-tonne capacity, powered by F3.8 engines producing 75 hp in the base 707G model or 122 hp in the Power+ variant, making it ideal for urban projects and environmentally restricted sites due to its compact dimensions and low noise levels. The 912G series advances to 10-tonne across models including the 912G, 912GS with front suspension for enhanced ride comfort, and 912HM optimized for low ground pressure via wide tires and suspended front , all equipped with B4.5 engines. For heavier loads, the 922G series delivers 20-tonne capacities in models like the 922G and 922HM, utilizing B6.7 engines rated at 314 hp, while the 920G variant offers 18-tonne capacity with similar three- design for balanced performance. Common across the range are ergonomic cabs with high visibility, rear-view cameras, and emergency stop systems for operator safety, alongside the MultiTip dump body capable of 180-degree rotation for flexible unloading options including side and scorpion tipping. Hydrema also offers the fully electric DT6 model with 5.5-tonne , providing zero-emission alternatives for sustainable operations while maintaining comparable mobility and stability. Development traces back to the company's early MBC800 , with iterative improvements leading to the current G-series focused on durability, efficiency, and reduced environmental impact.

Backhoe Loaders

Hydrema's 900G series loaders are engineered for high-performance applications in , earthmoving, and excavation, combining loader and functions in a single versatile machine. These models emphasize compact design, articulated steering for superior off-road mobility, and compatibility with various attachments to handle diverse tasks such as digging, loading, and . The series comprises four primary models: the 906G and 908G with 122 hp engines, and the more powerful 926G and 928G equipped with 147 hp B4.5 Stage V engines for compliance with stringent emissions regulations. The 906G and 926G incorporate hydraulic sideshift and a 280° working range for extended reach without repositioning, while the 908G and 928G prioritize high capacity and lifting power with a 200° range. All models feature advanced hydraulic systems for precise control and operator cabins designed for ergonomics and reduced vibration. Key innovations in the G series, updated as of , include a single-module aftertreatment system for , increased travel speeds up to 40 km/h, enhanced for , and improved cab insulation for operator comfort during extended use. These upgrades build on prior F-series models, such as the 926F with a 4.79 m digging depth and 85 kN breakout force, focusing on durability and reduced maintenance in demanding environments. In defense applications, Hydrema offers ruggedized variants of the 906G and 926G loaders, customized with armored cabs and quick-deployment features for engineering, trench digging, and in harsh terrains like battlefields. These machines support military tasks including site preparation and material transport, leveraging their robust frames and up to 280° range for operational flexibility.

Wheeled Excavators

Hydrema produces a range of wheeled excavators under its MXG series, comprising five models tailored for applications in construction, , and . These machines emphasize compact design, maneuverability in confined spaces, and high productivity through features like short tail swing and rapid travel speeds of up to 37 km/h. All MXG models are equipped with a B 4.5 L Stage V engine producing 175 horsepower and 780 Nm of , paired with a hydraulic delivering up to 407 liters per minute for efficient operation. The series incorporates heavy-duty undercarriages, ergonomic cabs with 10-inch displays for monitoring, and customizable attachments for digging, lifting, and .
ModelOperating Weight (t)Max Bucket Capacity (m³)Transport Width (m)Key Features
MX14G160.8~2.5Shortest tail swing; optimized for urban sites.
MX16G17.30.9~2.5Compact footprint with high hydraulic flow.
MX17G~181.0~2.5Enhanced stability for demanding tasks.
MX18G~191.1~2.5Large cab visibility; adaptable for rough .
MX20G~211.2~2.8Largest in series; superior reach and power.
The wheeled excavators support modular configurations, including rail adaptations via the MX Rail series and defense variants for earthmoving in harsh environments, prioritizing durability and low maintenance.

Specialized and Rail Equipment

Hydrema manufactures specialized rail equipment tailored for railway construction, maintenance, and infrastructure projects, adapting its core earthmoving technologies to standard gauge tracks. These machines incorporate rail-running modules that allow seamless transitions between rail and road operations, enhancing versatility in demanding environments. Key offerings include rail dump trucks and rail excavators, designed for efficient material handling and excavation while prioritizing safety and productivity. The 912GS Rail dump truck exemplifies Hydrema's rail-adapted dumpers, boasting a 10-tonne capacity and 7.3 cubic yards of heaped volume for transporting aggregates and spoil. It features a MultiTip hydraulic tipping system with a 180-degree radius for flexible unloading in confined rail settings, powered by a QSB 4.5-litre engine compliant with Stage V/Tier 4 Final emissions standards and paired with a ZF WG 115 six-speed transmission for precise control. Rail adaptations include removable rail wheel modules supporting high and low rail modes to navigate double tracks, along with hydraulic stabilizers and traction-enhanced axles for stability; safety elements comprise rail-positioning cameras and manual emergency pumps. This model facilitates solutions for railway renewal and trackside earthworks. Hydrema's MX Rail series excavators, such as the MX17G Rail and MX20G Rail, provide targeted solutions for rail-specific digging and lifting tasks. The compact MX17G Rail suits double-track operations with its reduced uppercarriage profile and rail modules enabling high/low mode functionality on standard gauge lines. The heavier MX20G Rail emphasizes robust lifting capacity, incorporating the Prolec system for height and yaw limitation integrated with a Rated Capacity Indicator (RCI) to monitor loads dynamically and prevent overloads. Dual sensors enable automatic stability adjustments, while three onboard cameras—two on the and one on the right side—extend operator visibility, mitigating risks from low-hanging overhead lines and adjacent tracks during excavation or vegetation control. These features ensure compliance with stringent railway safety protocols across and upgrade projects.

Technological Innovations

Key Engineering Advancements

Hydrema's foundational engineering advancement emerged with the "Fantomet" machine in 1959, which introduced revolutionary hydraulic systems that transformed construction equipment by enabling precise control and power in compact designs. This hydraulic innovation laid the groundwork for subsequent developments in earthmoving machinery, emphasizing durability and efficiency in demanding environments. In articulated dump trucks, Hydrema engineered the MultiChassis system, incorporating an oscillating articulated joint and hydrostatic transmission to maintain wheel-ground contact and deliver responsive steering across uneven terrains, as implemented in the 707G series with a 7-tonne capacity. The company further advanced dumping mechanisms with the MultiTip system, debuting in the 912 series, which permits 180-degree pivoting of the dump body for versatile unloading, reduced repositioning, and minimized site disturbance while supporting loads up to 10 tonnes in models like the 912HM. Wheeled excavators benefited from power enhancements in the series, launched with engines delivering 15% greater for superior and lifting performance, complemented by refined hydraulic controls. The MX20G model introduced an advanced curvature system enabling full 360-degree rotation of the relative to the lower , enhancing operational reach and maneuverability in confined spaces. Suspended front axles, standard in higher-capacity dumpers like the 912GS and 922G series equipped with B6.7 engines producing 314 horsepower, improve ride stability and operator comfort without compromising payload integrity. These advancements, including three-axle articulated steering for models like the 922G, underscore Hydrema's focus on low ground pressure via wide tyres and lightweight kerb designs, optimizing traction and reducing environmental impact in sensitive applications.

Shift to Sustainable Technologies

Hydrema initiated its transition toward sustainable technologies with the development of fully electric , marking a departure from traditional diesel-powered machinery to reduce emissions and noise in environments. The company's first such model, the DT6, was launched on August 16, 2023, as a compact electric designed for urban and environmentally sensitive sites. This vehicle features a high-capacity battery enabling zero-emission operation and ultra-low noise levels, while maintaining a payload capacity of 5.5 tonnes and an articulated for maneuverability in confined spaces. The DT6 incorporates advanced electric technology to deliver performance comparable to diesel counterparts without compromising reliability, including suspended cab and all-around visibility for operators. Hydrema positioned this launch as a key step in the green transition for earthmoving equipment, emphasizing its suitability for projects requiring minimal environmental impact. In parallel, the company has integrated sustainable engine advancements in its diesel models, such as the B-4.5L Stage V compliant engine in the 912G series, which employs diesel oxidation catalysts (DOC), diesel particulate filters (DPF), and (SCR) systems to meet stringent EU emission standards. Hydrema's focus on electrification targets sectors like construction and infrastructure where battery-powered machines can operate efficiently in short-haul, high-cycle applications, supported by telematics for optimized energy management. As of 2025, the DT6 remains the cornerstone of this initiative, with deliveries commencing shortly after launch to demonstrate practical viability in real-world deployments. The shift aligns with broader industry pressures for decarbonization, though Hydrema's official communications highlight performance parity over unsubstantiated environmental claims, underscoring the technology's engineering merits rather than regulatory compliance alone.

Defense and Demining Applications

Mine Clearance Vehicles

Hydrema produces the 910MCV as its primary mine clearance vehicle, with production commencing in 1996 for and operations. The vehicle is engineered to neutralize both anti-personnel and anti-tank mines, including those with up to 10 kg of explosive content, through a mechanical flail system that detonates or fragments ordnance ahead of the . Weighing 18 tonnes and measuring approximately 10 meters in length, the 910MCV features heavy armor plating on the cab and an armored deflector shield to protect the operator from blast effects and debris. It employs a 6-speed ZF ERGO POWER automatic transmission for reliable mobility across varied terrains, enabling efficient clearance of minefields. The flail unit, powered separately, rotates chain flails equipped with hammer bits to trigger explosions safely at a distance from the vehicle. In operational use, the 910MCV has demonstrated effectiveness in humanitarian and conflict zones; for instance, a Danish-supplied unit demined over 560 hectares in Ukraine's region by July 2025. Its prioritizes operator and rapid area reduction, though in sandy or soft soils may require adjustments to flail power, as noted in field tests. Hydrema continues to offer the 910MCV with modular adaptations for specific mission requirements, maintaining its role in defense applications.

Military and Humanitarian Deployments

Hydrema's mine clearance vehicles, notably the 910 MCV, have seen extensive use in military operations for neutralizing anti-tank and anti-personnel mines in active conflict zones. Deployed by NATO forces in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom, Norwegian personnel cleared more than 180,000 square meters of terrain at Kandahar airfield using the Hydrema 910, facilitating airfield operations. United States Army engineers employed the vehicle at Bagram Air Base, where its flail mechanism detonated mines on contact behind a protective armored shield. Danish ISAF contingents also integrated Hydrema equipment for rapid route and area clearance to support coalition logistics. The United States procured 41 units specifically for clearing air bases in Afghanistan, highlighting the vehicle's reliability in high-threat environments. In , Ukrainian armed forces received Hydrema 910 MCVs in 2024 to address explosive remnants in de-occupied areas. By July 2025, these 18-ton vehicles had cleared over 560 hectares in the region, demonstrating sustained operational effectiveness against buried ordnance up to 10 kg . Humanitarian applications leverage the same robust design for post-conflict land release, prioritizing civilian safety and agricultural restoration. In , nine Hydrema machines operate within a fleet of 77 heavy demining vehicles, contributing to broader humanitarian efforts amid ongoing territorial recovery. The vehicle's dual-engine setup—one for propulsion and one for the flail—enables efficient clearance of 3.5-meter-wide paths on varied , adaptable from to non-combat scenarios without reconfiguration. This versatility supports international and demining initiatives, though specific non-Ukrainian humanitarian deployments remain less documented in public records.

Corporate Operations and Global Reach

Manufacturing Facilities and Structure

Hydrema's primary manufacturing operations are centered in Støvring, , where the company's and main production facility are located at Gammel Kirkevej 16. This site handles research, development, and assembly of articulated dump trucks, wheel loaders, and specialized equipment, supporting the firm's focus on high-performance earthmoving machinery. A secondary production facility operates in Weimar, , contributing to manufacturing capacity for select models and components, enabling efficient European supply chain integration. The company maintains a family-owned as a Danish group, founded in , with centralized decision-making at the Støvring headquarters under leadership including CEO Jan Werner. This structure emphasizes in design and production while relying on a global network of subsidiaries for sales, service, and distribution, including offices in the United States (, for North American operations), Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and agents in 18 additional countries. Hydrema Defence, a dedicated division, is also based in Støvring, focusing on and defense vehicles without separate manufacturing sites. No full-scale manufacturing occurs outside ; North American and other regional facilities serve primarily as sales, parts distribution, and service hubs to support dealer networks rather than production. This lean structure prioritizes core competencies in and , minimizing overhead while ensuring through in-house and testing.

Market Presence and Partnerships

Hydrema maintains a global market presence through direct sales offices in , , , , the , and the , supplemented by sales agents operating in an additional 18 countries. This network supports distribution of its articulated dump trucks, wheeled excavators, and specialized equipment to industrialized markets, with a particular stronghold in where the company has manufactured loaders and excavators for over 60 years. In the , authorized dealers include G&G Heavy Equipment Rentals in and ProSource Machinery in and , facilitating access to and sectors. Similarly, in the , Molson Group holds distribution rights for , expanding Hydrema's reach in earthmoving applications. Key partnerships underscore Hydrema's strategic positioning. A decade-long with Danish construction firm A. Enggaard A/S has supplied machinery for major projects, emphasizing reliability and shared operational values in the domestic market. In the defense sector, Hydrema joined InterForce as a support company on May 27, 2025, committing to allow up to five paid days annually for employees in Danish military reserves or , thereby deepening integration with national defense initiatives and enhancing its role in humanitarian operations. These dealer and customer alliances, rather than equity joint ventures, form the core of Hydrema's expansion strategy, prioritizing localized service and application-specific adaptations over broad mergers.

References

Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.