Introducing the New Battery Power Online Buyers Guide
Check out our new Battery Power Online Buyers Guide. With over 1100 companies listed and 61 different industry categories to pick from, this is the only guide you need to find companies in the battery industry as well as related power management components.
http://www.batterypoweronline.com/bppt_qc/bppt_qc_index.htm
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Hybrid Electric Vehicle Battery Market Charged for Rapid Growth - But Which Battery?
The market for advanced Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) batteries will double from approximately $600 million this year to $1.2 billion by 2009 and is expected to top $2.0 billion by 2012, according to a new study, "The 2007 Advanced Automotive Battery Industry Report", to be published in April 2007.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles ( HEVs) combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor and a battery in various arrangements. They are now finding commercial acceptance as an effective means of raising fuel efficiency without sacrificing vehicle performance, thus combating global warming, pollution and dependence on the supply of fossil fuels. A key to identifying the type of HEV that will continue to expand the market is the availability of an affordable, long-life battery. In this regard the study concludes that in the foreseeable future, the HEV market will predominantly continue to consist of 'charged-on-board' designs. 'Plug-in' hybrids, which are charged from an electrical outlet, are unlikely to gain notable market share, due to the lack of a suitable and affordable battery for this architecture.
The study analyzes the battery requirements set by all major automakers for HEVs. Nickel Metal Hydride ( NiMH) is the incumbent technology for these applications due to its proven longevity under heavy usage. However, it has performance limitations at high and low temperatures, and at the OEM cost of $500 to $2,000 per HEV battery pack NiMH batteries are barely affordable to the automakers. Li-ion batteries-popular in portable equipment communication devices ranging from cell phones to laptop computers-are under intense development and testing by all major automakers for their potential promise in HEV applications. The study finds that recent reliability problems with Li-ion batteries in portable devices are delaying the entry of this higher- power battery chemistry into the HEV market. However, following extensive system verification tests, Li-ion batteries are still expected to enter the market in 2009, achieve a market penetration rate of 15 percent by 2012, and grow thereafter.
The study also discusses the plans of the major automakers and their battery suppliers for the commercialization of HEVs and HEV batteries. Toyota, Honda, and Ford, are leading the commercialization of HEVs, but most other major automakers expect to offer Hybrid Electric Vehicles in commercial volume by 2010. Two Japanese battery producers, Panasonic EV Energy and Sanyo, share over 90 percent of the HEV battery market (currently essentially all NiMH). Both companies are also developing Li-ion battery products for this market where over a dozen additional battery makers from Japan, Korea and the US are intending to compete. Market leader Panasonic EV Energy, a joint venture between Toyota and Panasonic Batteries, will continue to enjoy over 60 percent market share for at least three more years while the other developers are establishing their production capabilities.
To produce this study, Dr. Anderman, president of Advanced Automotive Batteries, a consulting firm that carries out technology and market assessments and organizes an annual industry conference, conducted over 35 site interviews with key players in the industry, including all major automakers, automotive system suppliers, and battery producers on three continents.
Lithium Technology Corp. Drives Ahead with Battery Applications for Advanced Automotives
Advances in lithium-ion battery technology and a shift in the mindset of auto manufacturers, have made hybrid-electric vehicles ( HEVs), plug-in hybrid-electric vehicles ( PHEVs) and electric vehicles ( EVs) a viable alternative to traditional fuel-powered automotives for the near future, according to officials at Lithium Technology Corp, (LTC), a provider of large lithium-ion rechargeable power solutions . LTC has focused solely on the development and production of large format lithium-ion batteries for more than twenty years and offers solutions today to drive the future.
“There has been a change of mindset within the car industry over the past two years triggered by the success the Japanese have had with the HEV,” comments Dr. Klaus Brandt, executive vice president of LTC and managing director of LTC subsidiary GAIA Akkumulatorenwerke (GAIA). “Large lithium-ion solutions have proven to be a technical reality for passenger cars and have achieved respectable performance.”
LTC has powered a project in conjunction with Innosys Engineering in which a four passenger Daihatsu Cuore was converted into an electric car using the lithium-ion batteries and a three-phase asynchronous electric motor. The battery, built with cells manufactured by LTC subsidiary GAIA, has a capacity of 25 kWh and an approximate highway range of 100 to 125 miles at 56 to 60 mph). These results are similar to the expected performance of the recently announced Volt slated to be made available by General Motors in 2010.
“The technology is here today. LTC has it, and we’ve demonstrated it,” says Dr. Brandt. “Price is the biggest factor holding back the production of these more environmentally friendly, fuel efficient vehicles. By commiting to work together, the auto manufactures and battery companies can bring the cost down and make cars like the Volt an affordable reality for the consumer.”
The lithium-ion battery has the same capacity as the original metal hydride battery but with half the weight. The battery can be charged by either the internal combustion engine (ICE) or a standard AC household electrical socket and can drive over 40 miles on the overnight electrical charge. The converted vehicle has a fuel economy of 36 mpg in the city, and 38 mpg on the highway, as compared to the original Chevy Equinox range of 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway.
SmartSpark Completes Phase II SBIR Grant for ForeverPower
Much attention has been brought recently to areas of concern with homeland security, particularly in the many remote areas of our borders. SmartSpark Energy Systems continued development to address such problems by completing the second phase of development for a highly reliable and scalable power supply system, ForeverPower.
SmartSpark received a Phase II SBIR grant in October 2005 to support ForeverPower. In November, 2006, that phase of development was completed when SmartSpark delivered a working prototype of the ForeverPower product to the Department of Defense for advanced testing. The testing is scheduled for the first part of 2007.
“This is a great milestone for us to reach on what we believe will be a valuable and important product development for years to come,” SmartSpark CEO Rick Krein said. “We’ve been able to pick up a lot of momentum on this project and are looking forward to the next stage. It’s really innovative and exciting to develop.”
ForeverPower is a power supply system that uses a combination of solar power, energy storage and sophisticated power electronics to provide reliable power in even the most extreme circumstances. Using technology licensed from the University of Illinois, SmartSpark engineers are developing ForeverPower for use in surveillance, communications, monitoring and tracking applications for homeland security. The
easy-to-install system is ideal for remote areas because it can be left unattended for up to 10 years while providing consistent power during day and night with reliability levels of up to 99.999 percent. The system does not use a costly utility power connection, does not require maintenance, and can be customized to meet customer demands for capacity, current and voltage.
Greatbatch Introduces nanoSVO Battery Technology
Greatbatch , Inc. has announced the qualification of its first battery model to incorporate nanoSVO for use in next-generation implantable medical devices. This announcement marks an advancement in the clinically-proven Silver Vanadium Oxide (SVO) high-rate battery product line. NanoSVO results from a proprietary, highly efficient synthesis process that vastly improves cathode material homogeneity, yielding more reliable and superior battery performance. The qualification of this novel cathode manufacturing process represents the successful integration of Greatbatch’s commercialization expertise and the intellectual property gained from the acquisition of NanoGram Devices Corp. in 2004.
Susan Campbell, Vice President of Medical Power for Greatbatch, said, “We are committed to providing the most reliable implantable medical components available. The qualification of nanoSVO is a validation of the Greatbatch intellectual property investment strategy and is consistent with our history of delivering the technology necessary to enhance performance and reliability for our customers.”
Micro Power Electronics Acquires SelfCHARGE
Micro Power Electronics, Inc. has acquired SelfCHARGE, Inc., a Redmond, Wa.-based provider of battery chargers, docking stations and battery packs. Micro Power is a global provider in portable power solutions for mission-critical equipment and provides custom battery solutions to leading portable medical, rugged handheld computing and commercial military equipment manufacturers. The closing of the transaction is still subject to several conditions, including final shareholder approval. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“ SelfCHARGE is well-known for its battery chargers, and its business is a natural complement to Micro Power’s existing portfolio. Our complementary product lines provide our OEM customers with a more comprehensive portfolio of portable power products, including power supplies, battery chargers and battery packs,” said Greg Love, president and CEO of Micro Power. “The combination of the Micro Power and SelfCHARGE customer base is another step towards Micro Power achieving its $100 million annual revenue target. The SelfCHARGE facility in Redmond will become Micro Power’s “center of excellence” for battery charger design and manufacturing,” he continued.
SelfCHARGE designs and manufactures custom OEM portable power products including battery chargers, docking stations, charge cradles and battery packs for industrial equipment manufacturers.
mPhase Technologies Smart Nanobattery Designed to Be ''Green''
mPhase Technologies recently announced that the Smart Nanobattery it is developing could be equipped with features that would allow it to be disposed of safely. The company has applied for patent protection for a set of design strategies to create batteries that use advanced chemistries but are still safe to dispose.
"Protecting the environment is critical," said Ronald A. Durando, CEO of mPhase Technologies. "We are pleased to have developed a green strategy that can help minimize the impact of various chemistries on the environment."
The prototype batteries use various chemicals as electrolytes residing on top of nano structures in a dormant state and when triggered, cause an electrochemical reaction to produce a measurable voltage and current under a load. Some cells are reserved to create the neutralizing chemical reaction at the end of life. The Smart Nanobattery promises an energy source that can be packaged in various configurations, with shelf life lasting decades, yet still able to be activated almost instantaneously on demand.
The innovation is based on a breakthrough in micro fluidics research making possible dynamic control of surfaces when interacting with a liquid - a key enabler for making "Smart Batteries" a reality. Batteries based on this technology may deliver a new and unique component for system design across many fields, including defense, industrial and consumer electronics.
ElectriTek AVT to Expand Reach with Custom Battery and Battery Charger Solutions
Inverness Capital Partners, a $125 million private equity fund affiliated with the Graham Group, has invested in ElectriTek AVT, Inc., a designer and manufacturer of custom battery pack and battery charger solutions for OEM customers. The investment will enable ElectriTek AVT to leverage and build upon its significant battery chemistry expertise and to continue its rapid growth with world-class OEM customers.
" ElectriTek’s ability to provide custom battery and charger solutions that meet the complex energy density, discharge, and recharge needs of their customers is driving considerable growth at the company,” explains Skip Maner, managing principal of Inverness Capital.
ElectriTek AVT CEO Jim Martin says the investment from Inverness allows ElectriTek to expand operations, invest for growth and take advantage of its industry leading chemistry capabilities, design and application knowledge on a broader scale. "The funding from Inverness Capital Partners validates the strength of our design capabilities and technology. We are building resources to provide high value, complex solutions for OEM customers globally,” Martin said.
Portable Rechargeable Battery Association Announces May 2007 Industry Forum on Standards-Setting
The Portable Rechargeable Battery Association (PRBA) plans to host a May 2007 forum in Washington, D.C., to discuss ongoing revisions to lithium-ion battery standards. The purpose of the forum is to address lithium-ion battery standards initiatives being considered by UL, IEC, ANSI, IPC and IEEE and to foster coordination with other industry participants.
The meeting will build on the progress made on a number of issues at a January 17 th PRBA standards forum in Washington, D.C., attended by PRBA members, representatives from standards-setting organizations, the Battery Association of Japan and other groups.
“The frank exchange of information and ideas on standard setting and other issues of importance to the lithium-ion battery industry proved so valuable that the participants concluded it would be useful to hold another meeting to build on January’s success,” said PRBA executive director George Kerchner.
At the January meeting, IEEE committee members updated the attendees about ongoing efforts to revise IEEE 1625 – Standard for Rechargeable Batteries for Portable Computing, which was originally approved in 2004. A UL representative explained the current revisions to its lithium battery standard – UL 1642. Other representatives provided updates on IEC and ANSI standard-setting activities and the IPC’s work.
The current testing requirements for lithium-ion cells and batteries under the international dangerous goods regulations were also reviewed and discussed in anticipation of possible changes in these rules. In addition, attendees from the Battery Association of Japan provided an update on standards activities in Japan.
Representatives from battery industry and the standards organizations also exchanged ideas on ways to achieve harmonization of the various standards and the importance of developing standards that factor in the design, testing and manufacturing of the cell-battery pack and host system.
Philadelphia Scientific Introduces iBOS, an Intelligent Battery Operating System
Philadelphia Scientific, a international manufacturer of industrial battery components, accessories and tools, has introduced the iBOS: Intelligent Battery Operating System. A breakthrough in battery room management, iBOS organizes a battery pool by ensuring that usage is spread evenly across all available batteries, extending their life and effectiveness.
The iBOS monitors all batteries in a pool and eliminates operator judgment in battery selection by determining which battery has had the longest cooling time since charging. Once charged, each battery is placed in queue, so the batteries that finish charging first are taken first.
According to Harold Vanasse, vice president of sales and marketing for Philadelphia Scientific, “Site tests have shown that if battery selection is left to each operator, 30 percent of the batteries will be underutilized and 20 percent will be overused. Within a few years, an unmanaged fleet of batteries will consist of many that are old and tired before their time, while others are virtually unused. The result: premature battery failure and lost productivity."
The iBOS uses three separate components—the Sentinel, Controller and Display. The Sentinel monitors the charge condition of each battery and can be mounted on any type of charger, including replacement chargers or even a mixed fleet of chargers. The Sentinel communicates directly with the Controller, a wall mounted electrical enclosure containing the brains of the system that feeds the number of the next available battery to the Display unit. The iBOS Display is a multi-color scrolling LED sign that displays which battery is to be deployed next. The Display can be mounted at the decision point of the battery selector. The iBOS can also be equipped with an audible alarm called the Shouter that triggers when an operator does not take the next battery in line.
With the use of an on-site computer, iBOS continuously monitors battery selection activities and produces both efficiency and diagnostic reports. Efficiency reports are used to make sure that the battery fleet size is compatible with its application. Diagnostic reports identify faulty equipment and record when a battery has been taken from the wrong place in the queue. These downloadable reports help ensure that an optimal number of batteries are available for each system and that all of the battery room equipment is in working order.
Ultralife Batteries Introduces New Tactical Solar Handheld Radio Battery Charger
Ultralife Batteries, through its McDowell Research operating unit, has introduced the MRC-197, a new tactical solar handheld radio battery charger that will allow the individual war fighter to safely and effectively recharge a standard tactical handheld radio lithium-ion battery and a high capacity lithium-ion battery. With its rugged construction, ease of use, intelligent charging, and ability to function in the most severe environments, the MRC-197 is the best choice for on-the-go charging.
East Penn Expands Unigy I Line with New Telecom Battery
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| Unigy I batteries feature tank formed plates to ensure full formation for optimum capacity. The Unigy line also comes in reinforced cases, complete with carrying handles. These cases resist bulging and meet safety requirements (rated 28 LOI). |
East Penn Manufacturing Company has expanded its line of Deka Unigy I absorbed, valve-regulated (AVR) batteries for cell sites and other telecommunication applications. The new 12AVR-90 battery complements the Unigy I line offering more coverage for cabinet sizes and multiple application demands. The 12AVR90 is also a direct replacement for batteries used in the Nortel EBE battery enclosure.
The 12AVR-90’s dimensions (12.01 inches by 6.80 inches by 8.24 inches and footprint maximizes shelf space and is an ideal length for a compact fit. Special design features like epoxy-sealed posts and recessed terminals extend the design life of the 12AVR-90 further than standard batteries used in telecom applications. The 12AVR-90 is designed to deliver 10 years in full float applications at 77°F (25°C) with the proper charging care and maintenance.
Battery Power 2007 Calendar of Events Updated
The editors at Battery Power Products & Technology have updated the 2007 Calendar of Events, featuring all conferences, exhibits and seminars relating to the battery industry. Visit the Web site today to see what events are on the horizon: http://www.batterypoweronline.com/bppt_cal.htm.
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March
19-22 - 24th International Battery Seminar and Exhibit, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Contact Florida Educational Seminars at 561-367-0193 or email.
20-22 - Aviation Industry Expo, Orlando, Fla. To register, call 800-827-8009.
27-29 - CTIA Wireless, Orlando, Fla. Contact CTIA at 301-694-5243 or email.
28-30 - IWCE, Las Vegas, Nev.
April
11-13 - Entelec, Houston, Texas.
16-19 - SAE 2007 World Congress, Detroit, Mich.
22-25 - Battery Industry Council, Myrtle Beach, SC.
2007 MRS Spring Meeting & Exhibit
April 9-13, 2007
San Francisco, CA
Registration is now open for the 2007 MRS Spring Meeting & Exhibit in San Francisco, April 9-13. The meeting, with 35 technical symposia and over 3700 oral and poster presentations, is divided into four topical clusters that represent the current trends in interdisciplinary materials research and include a blend of new areas as well as established research fields. Topical clusters include advances in electronic and magnetic materials; polymers, hybrids and biomaterials; optical materials and phenomena; and nanoscale materials, properties and applications. In addition to the technical meeting, a large-scale exhibition featuring over 100 international exhibitors from all sectors of the global materials science and engineering communities will be held Tuesday through Thursday.
Register before March 23 to enjoy discounted pre-registration rates.
IPSS Symposium
25th International Power Sources Symposium & Exhibition
April 23 - 25, 2007
Assembly Rooms, Bath UK
The overall aim of the International Power Sources Symposium is to advance the education of the general public by improving understanding and knowledge in the field of research and development in the use of non-mechanical power sources, particularly batteries and fuel cells, as well as photovoltaic and other non-electrochemical power sources.
International Power Sources Symposium (IPSS) was formed in 1958. Today it is run by a board of trustees drawn from UK Government departments, academia, battery and fuel cell manufacturers and supply companies. The main functions of IPSS are to hold major Symposiums every two years, together with regular educational seminars. To learn more about the 2007 Symposium visit the web site: http://www.ipss.org.uk/
UTC TELECOM 2007
May 6 - 9, 2007
Austin, Texas
For every telecommunications, information technology and networking professional at every utility anywhere the Utilities Telecom Council's Annual Conference and Exposition-UTC TELECOM 2007-held May 6-9 in Austin, Texas - will be 2007's ultimate professional experience. UTC TELECOM 2007 will feature unique opportunities for everyone in the critical infrastructure communications business to: LEARN about the most important communications issues that will impact them over the next year. CONNECT with peers in other critical infrastructure organizations through shared learning and special social events. CELEBRATE the unique value and special contributions that critical infrastructure communications professionals make to the communities they serve and the organizations where they work. Find out more information and register at www.utctelecom2007.utc.org.
211th ECS Meeting 
May 6-11, 2007
Chicago, Illinois
Hilton Chicago
ECS holds international meetings in the spring and fall of each year, providing a forum for exchanging information on the latest scientific and technical developments in the fields of electrochemical and solid-state science and technology. ECS meetings bring together scientists, engineers, and researchers from academia, industry, and government laboratories to share results and discuss issues on related topics through a variety of formats, such as oral presentations, poster sessions, panel discussions, and tutorial sessions. For more information on the spring meeting in Chicago, IL please visit http://www.electrochem.org/meetings/biannual/211/211.htm.
EDS 2007
May 15 – 17, 2007
Paris Hotel - Las Vegas, NV
EDS, Electronic Distribution Show and Conference, is the annual meeting place and market place for the global community of manufacturers of electronic components, instruments and accessories and the distributors and manufacturers' representatives through whom their goods are brought to market.
EDS includes product exhibits, educational programs, networking opportunities, as well as scheduled meeting between participating companies. The emphasis at EDS is not on technology but on marketing -- on forging and maintaining business relationships among manufacturers, distributors, and representatives.
EDS 2007 takes place May 15 to May 17 at the Paris Hotel, Las Vegas. www.edsc.org
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