BATTERIES
Specifying LTO battery cell chemistry for enhanced performance in mobile industrial robots
Owen McNally, principal design engineer, Alexander Battery Technologies
T
he exponential increase in demand for battery-powered products, particularly in the industrial sector, has led to key advancements in battery design and development. A critical decision in battery pack development is the choice of cell chemistry, as off-the-shelf solutions often requirements. This has driven original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to opt for custom lithium-ion battery packs to boost product performance, especially in mobile robotics.
Mobile robots, including automated guided vehicles (AGVs), automated mobile robots (AMRs) and frame climbers in warehouses, rely on portable battery power systems to maintain continuous output without charge interruptions or failures. Therefore, choosing the appropriate battery chemistry is crucial for reliable performance.
Lithium-based batteries: the preferred choice
Lithium-based batteries dominate new industrial battery applications due to their high energy density and capacity, providing longer run-times between charges. However, the variety of lithium chemistries and supporting components like battery charge controller ICs present complex trade-offs for OEMs.
OEMs should consider collaborating pack design for detailed guidance on performance attributes and chemistry
selection. For example, custom battery pack manufacturers, such as Alexander Battery Technologies, employ a team of engineers to ensure that the battery pack development meets the needs of the intended application.
Lithium Titanate (LTO) for extreme conditions
LTO is an older, yet highly effective, chemistry for mobile robots operating in extreme temperature ranges. For instance, in cold environments like refrigerated warehouses, active in-pack heating may be required to raise cell temperatures above 0°C for charging. Active heating is often more timely and reliable charging.
Key advantages of LTO batteries
Enhanced safety and stability: LTO batteries exhibit minimal risk of thermal runaway due to the stable LTO anode, which operates at a higher voltage, reducing the risk of lithium plating and dendrite formation lithium-ion batteries. Long cycle life: LTO batteries can endure 7,000 to 10,000 charge-discharge cycles, other lithium chemistries. This longevity is attributed to the minimal volume change in the LTO anode during cycling, reducing mechanical stress and degradation. Rapid charging capability: LTO batteries support charging rates up to 10C, allowing full recharges in six to ten minutes. The high surface area and excellent conductivity of the LTO anode enhance ion transport and reduce resistance, minimising downtime in critical applications.
Wide temperature range performance: LTO batteries perform effectively from -30°C to 55°C, making them suitable for environments where other lithium batteries might fail or lose capacity. The stable electrochemical properties ensure consistent performance and reliability in extreme temperatures.
12 SEPTEMBER 2024 | ELECTRONICS FOR ENGINEERS
Application in industrial automation: In industrial settings, LTO batteries are advantageous for mobile robots used in material handling, inventory management and assembly line support. Their long cycle life reduces the need for frequent battery replacements, while rapid charging capabilities maximise operational uptime. AGVs, commonly used in manufacturing from LTO batteries’ robust power sources for navigating complex environments and transporting heavy loads. The quick recharge capability keeps AGVs operational with minimal downtime, enhancing overall productivity.
Moreover, LTO batteries’ superior performance in diverse and challenging conditions ensures that mobile robots can operate reliably, even in settings where environmental controls are limited. This adaptability makes LTO batteries particularly valuable in logistics and supply chain and rigorous usage patterns are common. over other lithium chemistries, including superior safety, extended cycle life, rapid charging and reliable performance across make LTO batteries an excellent choice for powering mobile robots in various industrial applications. Careful attention to cell and and collaboration with dependable battery pack manufacturers ensures reliable and predictable performance for the life of the robot.
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