As part of Siemens’ €500 million investment to create a state-of-the-art, zero-emission hub for research and production, the first stage of the project involved the deconstruction of three existing buildings. For this, Husqvarna Construction played a central role by supplying two DXR demolition robots and advanced air cleaning equipment. Working in collaboration with Volvo Construction Equipment’s electric excavators, loaders and crushers, as well as Metzner Recycling’s material processing expertise, the project helped demonstrate that emission-free demolition is already achievable on an industrial scale. Mathias Pfitzenmeier, VP Sales & Services Germany, Husqvarna Construction, is convinced that projects like this have a vital role to play in changing industry perceptions –

“Pilot projects that include the entire value chain are necessary. They prove the feasibility of zero-emission job sites and highlight the potential for broader adoption.”

Electrification that enables

Across the different phases of the project, from selective gutting and pollutant removal to full building demolition, only electric machines were used. Inside, Volvo’s compact excavators worked in tandem with Husqvarna DXR 145 and DXR 305 robots to precisely dismantle concrete and masonry in what was described as selective interior demolition. And as Daniel Lundberg, Global Product Manager, Husqvarna Construction explains, the DXR is perfect for this type of work –

“Our solution offers a smooth and efficient way to handle the task with a robot. It’s small enough to be used indoors, produces no emissions during use and provides great flexibility with many tool options that are easy to switch between – almost like a Swiss army knife. Most importantly, it significantly enhances occupational safety, allowing the operator to stand at a safe distance and control the machine via remote.”

In total, more than 12,800 tonnes of material were processed, with 96% recycled for reuse in the new build.

Air cleaners on site

At any deconstruction or demolition site, dust is a problem. It may contain crystalline silica, a hazardous substance whose small particles can penetrate deep into the lungs. For this reason, handling dust effectively and using high-quality professional dust control equipment is vital. For the Siemens Technology Campus project, Husqvarna Construction deployed the A 45 and the new A 100 air cleaners. The A 100 air cleaner is the most productive model and is perfect for commercial spaces and construction sites, making it ideal for surface preparation and demolition jobs. Stijn Verherstraeten, Senior Vice President, Technology, Product & Operations –

“Our main task as a leader in the industry is to develop the market by expanding the use of dust extractors, slurry collectors and air cleaners for operators. With this in focus, we will take every opportunity to showcase dust management solutions that work well with the rest of our product range.”

A vision of a future that’s ours to create

For Husqvarna Construction, the Siemens project is both proof of concept and a call to action. With more than 40% of its machinery already corded or battery-powered electric, Husqvarna Construction is committed to accelerating the transition to fossil-free sites. But Stijn Verherstraeten is looking forward and thinking with a wider perspective. He concludes –

“This all-electric deconstruction is a strong signal to policymakers, contractors and machine operators alike. Together with our partners, we’re showing that a sustainable, zero-emission construction industry is not just a vision – it’s happening now.”