On-demand charging for AGVs
June 1st 2011 Hawker XFC batteries from EnerSys
are being used in a project with
automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
manufactured by JBT Corporation
for handling print reels and other
loads.
The batteries feature a compact
size/shape, heavy duty performance,
and quick/on-demand charging,
without the need for maintenance.
These features enabled the batteries
to be integrated into the AGVs and
delivered round-the-clock operation.
Each XFC battery is
approximately 30% smaller than
comparable conventional units and
can be placed in any orientation,
including upright, on its side or on
its end because the dry gel
electrolyte will not leak.
The XFC battery stores around
30% more charge than conventional
units and can be charged from
around 60% discharge to full
capacity in under three hours when
used with a Hawker Lifetech high
frequency charger. The battery is
also said to be no-gassing and
maintenance-free.
Another critical consideration in
the choice of the Hawker XFC
battery was its performance in use.
The AGVs are designed for almost
continuous operations and battery
changing or swapping - which is
sometimes used on AGVs - was not
preferred by the customer. The XFC
battery delivers maximum
performance because it stores
around 30 per cent more charge
than conventional units which
extends the amount of time the
AGV can operate before recharging. More articles from Enersys Ltd: | 
