Optimising investment costs

In logistics and production, every square meter counts. Operators want to use the available space as efficiently as possible to keep production and storage costs low. For this reason, size plays an important role when purchasing machines and devices: the more compact the device, the less valuable space it occupies. This also applies to battery charging technology, particularly for operators of large forklift truck fleets who usually have numerous devices in operation.

Fronius battery charging systems are light and compact. Compared to conventional 50 Hz devices and high-frequency technologies from other manufacturers, they are much lighter and smaller. This opens up many possibilities for the operator, as the battery charging systems can be mounted in space-saving locations such as on pillars or between loading ramps and roller shutters. The battery charging technology can thus be adapted to the spatial conditions available, thereby guaranteeing the best possible use of costly production and storage areas.

More efficient and higher-quality charging

A high-performance intralogistics operation involving electrically-powered forklift trucks requires a suitable charging infrastructure. However, the standard alternating voltage in Europe of 230 volts is not sufficient for every system. Converting the infrastructure to three-phase current with a voltage of 400 volts provides additional capacities, but also generates high costs.

 

Fronius battery charging systems guarantee a much more efficient and higher-quality charge than other 50 Hz or high frequency battery charging systems. The innovative Ri charging process ensures optimum charging with minimum energy consumption depending on the age, state of charge and temperature of the battery. As a result, Fronius devices are often used with a 230 V mains voltage, whereas other systems would require a high voltage mains connection. This means that the operator can avoid expensive investments in the charging infrastructure whilst achieving the same output.

When particularly high demands are placed on electrically-powered forklift trucks, an electrolyte circulation system (ECS) is often used to charge the traction batteries. This guarantees an ultra-gentle charging process and thus reduced warming of the battery. The charging time can be reduced considerably and the battery is ready for use again in a shorter space of time. There are disadvantages, however: purchasing a circulation pump attracts high costs and the systems are technically demanding, which can lead to problems during operation. An electrolyte circulation system is therefore not suitable for every application.

Fronius battery charging systems with the Ri charging process offer such a high-quality charge that in many cases the operator does not need an electrolyte circulation system. With the Fronius solution, the charging characteristic is adapted to the age, temperature and state of charge of the battery. Every single charging cycle is therefore unique and has its own characteristic, protecting the battery even during rapid and frequent charging and increasing its service life. Users can thus avoid the high costs involved in purchasing an electrolyte circulation system as well as uncertainties during operation, even in cases where the use of such a system with conventional battery charging technology is unavoidable.