Following intensive development work, battery charging systems specialist Fronius will be exhibiting its new generation of chargers at IMHX in March 2013. The company has written a new chapter in the history of battery charging systems with its innovative Ri-charging process.
Fronius supplies a complete range of primary switched mode battery chargers, specially designed for traction batteries and vehicle starter batteries. The Selectiva product range includes solutions for ground conveyors, working and lifting platforms and electric vehicles, whilst the Acctiva product range consists of professional chargers for use in workshops with cars, commercial vehicles, motorcycles, construction equipment, agricultural machinery and emergency vehicles.
Battery charging systems manufactured by Fronius have been enjoying growing popularity. And no wonder. The “Active Inverter Technology”, which is based on high frequency technology, enables significant savings. In addition, battery maintenance requirements are reduced, battery service life is longer, valuable storage space is freed up and there is a significant reduction in CO2 emissions. The charging technology is an advance on conventional inverter (HF) technology and is far superior to the old 50 Hz transformer technology.
Fronius uses “Selectiva” battery charging systems for its intralogistics portfolio and the first products of the new Selectiva generation are now available. Fronius has completely overhauled the three-phase devices designed for the 24, 48 and 80 V traction batteries commonly found in electric forklift trucks, narrow-aisle trucks and electric tow tractors.
Based on the proven “Active Inverter Technology”, the next generation of three-phase Selectiva Plus D (7 and 14kW) chargers have adopted the new innovative Ri charging process – a completely new technical approach. Once connected, the current charge level of the battery is permanently measured and its temperature and discharge level are monitored. The charger software uses this information to adjust the individual charging phases as required.
The new generation of Selectiva devices have many user benefits. The efficiency of the battery charging systems is 93%. Charging efficiency, as well as process efficiency have each increased by up to 10% from the previous series. In addition, the Ri characteristic has the added advantage of less battery warming during charging, thus longer battery service life.
In addition to the new Ri charging process, the new devices boast many other enhancements. Maximum output power has been increased from 7 to 8 kW and 14 to 16 kW respectively, the largest variant (80 V with 180 A) now weighs only 30 instead of 40 kg.
Mains voltage monitoring, safety cut-out, de-energised charging plugs, reverse polarity protection, external start-stop, time-delayed end of charging and a collective fault display round off the new safety features. The new devices also have a modern USB interface for system monitoring, and easy software update installation.
For 60 years, Fronius has been carrying out research and development of battery chargers, working closely with battery and forklift truck manufacturers and research institutes.
Battery Charging is one of three Fronius divisions. For decades Fronius has made significant contributions to advances in welding technology, providing solutions for MIG/MAG, TIG, electrode, laser, plasma and resistance spot welding and automation. Fronius entered the solar market in 1992. The mains-connected inverter, the unique Fronius Service Partner programme and products for monitoring photovoltaic systems make Fronius one of the leading suppliers in the field of solar electronics.
Fronius
Tel: 01908 512 300
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