Groundbreaking batteries
December 1st 2005

New from industrial battery specialists, Hoppecke, the trak fnc is the first traction battery to be based on a metallised fibre-structured glass mat.

The fibre-structured technology (FNC) was first introduced by the company in 1983 for standby operation and was originally used in demanding aerospace projects, as well as electric and hybrid vehicles.

In comparison with traditional pocket plates and sintered electrodes, glass mat is an extremely lightweight carrier material.

It is so porous that 90% of the volume for the fibre electrode remains free for filling with active material. As a result it is able to cope with very high currents during charging and discharge, with low nominal capacity ratings.

The fibre-structured electrodes have a conductive nickel matrix.

These are protected from aging oxidation by a special no-additive filling method.

As a result the need for electrolyte change - an issue with conventional NiCad batteries - is eliminated. Life expectancy and long-term stability of the battery are also enhanced thanks to the flexible characteristic that the glass mat retains after the active material has been introduced.

One of the major benefits of the new trak fnc is its 24hr operation. With battery changeover and waiting times eliminated, greater availability and utilisation of trucks is possible.

The battery also boasts extremely low life-cycle costs and an extended maintenance interval. Suited to applications where alternative lead acid systems have reach their performance limits, thanks to its fibre-structured technology which is resistant to shock and vibration, the trak fnc is also ideal for extreme temperature conditions from -30 to +50°C.

For those looking for a lead acid battery with virtually zero maintenance requirements, Hoppecke has developed the trak eco. New charging technology, an electrolyte filling level indicator and an optimised cell structure mean the time and cost of maintenance have been greatly reduced.

The battery lid and central degassing system also help minimise maintenance outlay and protect from damage and contamination.

Hoppecke also used CeMat to introduce its first range of chargers. The trak premium charge range, primary-cycled HF chargers offer an efficiency level of over 92%. The intelligent processor control of the output modules allows a power factor of 0.97.

Hoppecke claims a reduction in operating/energy costs of more than 10%, as well as better utilisation of mains power.