The global e-commerce market is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 14.7% from 2020-2027, according to Grand View research. The warehouse and logistics industry is seeking to meet this demand by carrying out multi-shift operations with optimum efficiency. This means equipment has to be reviewed, including the power source of forklifts, whether that be ICE or batteries. Warehouses with multi-shift operations may want to consider investing in lithium-ion batteries. Although they have a higher upfront cost than alternatives, lithium batteries require less time to charge and do not rely on watering, cleaning and equalising. The performance of forklifts will not start to deteriorate as the lithium batteries run out of power.
This article was first published in the June 15th 2021 issue of Warehouse & Logistics News, subscribe to the magazine by clicking here.
Li-ion and lead-based batteries will be the two mainstream technologies by 2030 and both are required to serve the anticipated increase in demand and the different applications, according to a new report. EUROBAT, the association of European Automotive and Industrial Battery Manufacturers, has released the “EU battery demand and supply (2019-2030) in a global context” independent market report, produced by leading energy consultancy Avicenne Energy. Motive Power applications, where lead-based batteries are today still dominant, will gradually shift to lithium-based by 2030, the report says.
The advantages of enhanced lead batteries for fleet operators and users of material handling trucks are clear. Greater available energy and more power extends the running time of the truck, while reduced heat generation contributes to longer battery lifespans. In addition, lower heat generation feeds into greater energy production and correspondingly lower CO2 emissions.
Hoppecke UK’s trak uplift Air employs innovative vented lead-acid battery technology. The product offers a longer battery life, faster charging, reduced downtime and better battery availability. There is less topping, at only six times a year, while less gassing improves the charging environment.
Fronius Selectiva 4.0 battery chargers are genuine all-rounders when it comes to day-to-day intralogistics activities. Conservation charging, preventing deep discharge as well as rapid and opportunity charging of lead-acid batteries are just some of the options offered by these devices. Special characteristics designed especially for charging lead-acid batteries ensure reliable, gentle and cost-effective charging to suit the condition of the battery.
ECOBAT Logistics offer a premium service which involves the collection of end of life industrial batteries for transporting, storage, processing and recycling. The majority of industrial batteries collected today from warehouses and industrial businesses are still lead acid. The closed loop, operated by the wider ECOBAT group of companies, fully recycle lead acid batteries, and up to 96% of the recovered components are reused in the manufacture of new batteries amongst many other products.
As the logistics sector continues to meet the demand created by the growth of e-commerce, it is encouraging to see LPG and batteries provide the power to keep warehouses running.
George Simpson
Features Editor
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