• • • BATTERIES & CHARGERS • • •
The importance of swappable batteries in charging the power industry
Briggs & Stratton explores the impact swappable batteries are having on the 21st Century power industry
T
he battery market is not just rapidly growing, but evolving by the day as companies seek to streamline efficiencies, reduce downtime and ultimately lower the total cost of equipment ownership.
Add to this the increasing importance of sustainability as sectors look to reduce their carbon footprint and electrification is spearheading cross- industry developments in effective power solutions that will meet these demands.
New ways of working inevitably call for new power sources, which has resulted in the emergence of different sized batteries now being available. And, of course, each and every one of these batteries requires power, which has also led to a whole host of chargers being developed over the years too.
Tried and trusted = accessibility
& efficiency limitations What we now have before us is an extensive battery market, with many sector-wide users traditionally using products they know and trust. But using multiple batteries, which each require their own power cable, charging facility and user manual, poses limitations in the accessibility and efficiency stakes.
More equipment invariably requires more space, which leads to higher overheads. Furthermore, continuously switching between batteries and making sure they are fully charged eats into valuable production time.
From multiple to swappable While these challenges are commonplace, they can be overcome in today’s technology-driven world. Power-agnostic approaches that enable power solutions to effortlessly be used across numerous machinery are single-handedly changing the battery market landscape. More specifically, swappable battery packs are being moved from application-to-application, reducing downtime and boosting efficiency and productivity in the process.
The benefits of using swappable batteries – revealed
One battery for multiple applications Swappable batteries, like the Vanguard Lithium-Ion 48V Si1.5kWh* battery pack, can be used across numerous machines and suppliers like Briggs & Stratton are working closely with OEM partners to update machinery and facilitate this transition smoothly. The Battery Management System (BMS) and CANbus J1939 communicate with the application to adjust the discharge rate and delivery effective power output without damaging the battery.
Zero maintenance
The BMS is also designed to enable the Si 1.5kWh battery to operate within the optimum performance window, protecting the health of the battery during use and charging, and ultimately safeguarding battery longevity. Additionally, the BMS connects the battery to
the Vanguard app for remote monitoring and run-easy diagnostics, with no need for the scheduled maintenance cycles required by other power sources.
One charger for one battery Using just one battery for several pieces of equipment means that only one type of charger is required, regardless of how many machines need charging. This results in a much-reduced total cost of ownership, as well as providing a user-friendly and more straightforward solution for the customer without the need for multiple different batteries and charging units.
Scalable battery power
Due to different machines having different power requirements, it’s essential they are powered by scalable batteries. Some swappable batteries, such as the Si 1.5kWh battery, can be stacked, providing a more flexible solution that can be tailored to meet each individual machine’s power needs.
Streamlined power Swappable battery usage is far more streamlined compared to fixed solutions that require compulsory downtime to restore energy levels. Given the fact not all applications require ten swappable batteries at the same time, the batteries that aren’t being used can be charged in the meantime, providing a continuous power supply without disrupting outputs.
This dramatically reduces downtime and boosts productivity, as there’s no longer any need to wait for charging to take place.
22 ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING • JULY/AUGUST 2023 Quick and easy connectivity
Some swappable batteries, such as the Si 1.5kWh battery, have been fitted with easy latch systems, enabling users to swiftly click the battery in and out of position. This also means the battery can be easily moved between applications for the ultimate in flexible power delivery across diverse equipment.
Built to last
Secure casing that’s designed to withstand abuse, debris and dirt helps boost reliability and durability, even in heavy-duty machinery in the most demanding working conditions. At the same time, it also reduces noise output levels and enables the batteries to be emissions-free when in use.
The best is yet to come… Batteries will always need to be charged – granted. But standardised power solutions, in the form of innovative swappable batteries that can be used application-wide, are transforming the way things have traditionally been done.
Multiple products can now be powered using just one pioneering battery system that’s delivering significant sector-wide wins in so many areas, including performance, reliability, efficiency, electrification and sustainability.
Swappable batteries are the next big step in delivering forward-thinking power solutions for 21st Century working environments and the Vanguard Lithium-Ion 48V Si1.5kWh battery puts this latest advance in battery power into the hands of OEMs right now.
electricalengineeringmagazine.co.uk
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