The Logistics World Summit & Expo 2024-BSL Battery debuts Top Lithium Battery Product
China Huizhou, BSL Battery-Industrial a provider in designing and manufacturing smart lithium-ion batteries (up to 50% more efficient than its peers in the market) for industrial forklifts used in the storage and distribution industries, exhibited at its first participation at the 2024 The Logistics World Summit & Expo, April 10-11, 2024 in Centro Citibanamex, Mexico. With a rich manufacturing history of more than 10 years, BSL Battery-Industrial has become a trusted manufacturer of lithium battery solutions for material handling. With significant investment, lean manufacturing capabilities, seamless supply chain integration, and a 180-year professionally designed technical team in the lithium battery industry, BSL Battery-Industrial is fully capable of providing high-quality products and the best-tailored lithium battery solutions to forklift manufacturers, forklift dealers, and battery dealers. Exhibiting for the first time at The Logistics World Summit & Expo, BSL Battery-Industrial was bustling and attracted a lot of visitors, including friends from all over the Americas. The company representatives had in-depth discussions with the participants, exchanged views on the industry trends, and demonstrated BSL Battery-Industrial’s firm determination to enter the North American market and achieve excellent results. The future is very exciting In the highly anticipated process, our new third-generation forklift lithium battery was finally lit up at 10:00 am on April 10th, which was warmly welcomed and highly praised by our customers! BSL Battery-Industrial Chief Technology Officer Mr.Lin Peng said, “This third-generation forklift lithium battery is a leading product in the material handling industry. Using a UL2580-certified BSL lithium battery module and a proprietary cloud-based BMS ™ remote information processing and asset management system independently developed by BSL. Outstanding performance in food and beverage, third-party logistics (3 PL), warehousing and manufacturing, and other industries, easily meeting customer needs. Medium to large fleets with fleet management systems will notify you before the problem occurs. View battery performance, monitor fleet activity generate real-time metrics, optimize performance, and save energy. In addition to the above products, we have also demonstrated a variety of lithium battery products used in AGV, GSE, aerial work platforms, and golf carts. It is worth noting that we have deployed about 12,000 batteries throughout North America and provided China’s first UL2580-certified lithium-ion battery pack for material handling equipment. BSL Battery-Industrial, AMER Area Manager, Bebinca Wu, said: “The Logistics World Summit & Expo is a key stage for us that not only strengthens our foothold in the Americas but also introduces novel products to our respected product portfolio, demonstrating our commitment to providing excellent quality, superior service and strong support to our customers in the Americas. Missed us at The Logistics World Summit & Expo 2024? Reach out today! If you didn’t attend The Logistics World Summit & Expo 2024, explore BSL Battery-Industrial’s 3.0 lithium battery solution. Don’t worry, our commitment to 3.0 lithium battery product samples and cost reduction continued after the event. Whether you are still hesitant about lithium-ion batteries or want to bring the advantages of proprietary cloud-based BMS ™ telematics and asset management systems into your operations, our energy experts will answer your questions here! Although you may have missed the opportunity to visit our Logistics World Summit & Expo, you can still contact us by virtual means. BSL Battery-Industrial is committed to providing customers with the best lithium battery solutions and building mutually beneficial partnerships worldwide. Over the past 10 years, BSL Battery-Industrial has gained good recognition in many markets, including China, ASEAN, Australia, South Asia, the Middle East, the Americas, and Europe. To better serve local customers, BSL Battery-Industrial is actively seeking local dealers and partners to enhance its competitiveness in these areas.
AMPURE appoints John Thomas as Global Head of EVSE Sales
EV Industry veteran brings extensive experience in accelerating growth AMPURE, formerly Webasto Charging Systems, appoints John Thomas as Global Head of EVSE (Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment) Sales to grow its business. Transom Capital Group (Transom) recently acquired AMPURE as a portfolio company. John, former President and Chief Executive Officero of Webasto Charging Systems from 2017 – 2020, rejoins the AMPURE leadership ranks with the target of continuing the growth journey for its EVSE OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and Aftermarket businesses. “John is the right person to lead our continued growth; he brings a wealth of industry knowledge, a strong reputation with the vehicle OEMs, and a unique ability to create partnerships across the entire energy ecosystem,” said Russ Roenick, co-founder and managing partner of Transom Capital Group. We are aggressively investing in people and products to continue positioning our portfolio company as a global leader in electric vehicle charging. John and his peers will pursue the international market, create strong partnerships, and accelerate our business.” Thomas brings over 30 years of global automotive, government relations, and transportation expertise, including more than seven years of leadership in the EV space. He recently served as Chief Operating Officer of a charging start-up, leading that organization’s transition to the North American stage, and was formerly President and Chief Executive Officer of Webasto Charging Systems from 2018-2020. “The electrification transformation is here to stay, and AMPURE brings the missing pieces to complete the puzzle with the industry’s most robust and reliable products. AMPURE is poised to lead the industry through this transition by combining automotive-grade hardware and user-friendly software, enabling our partners to operate their businesses seamlessly,” said Thomas. “AMPURE uses highly skilled engineering, a methodology of working directly with vehicle OEMs, market intelligence, and a focus on level 2 charging, which covers 90% of all EV charging applications. This unique mix allows our organization to design, develop, and manufacture high-quality, regulatory-compliant hardware and software for vehicles, homes, and commercial applications across the globe. I’m confident we possess the correct balance of phenomenal user experience and market-changing innovation that will complement the brand image of any customer or partner.”
BSL Battery receives certification for LiFePo4 forklift batteries
Innovation, quality, and safety have always been fundamental factors in the design and manufacture of BSL Battery – Industrial’s Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries. With the breakthrough of UL2580 and IEC 62619 certifications, BSL Battery-Industrial’s commitment to safety and design excellence remains unmatched. This milestone solidifies BSL Battery-Industrial’s position as a leader in the power industry. BSL Battery – Industrial, a recognized manufacturer of lithium-ion forklift batteries, has announced that the B-LFP24-205MH, B-LFP36-820MH, B-LFP48-460MH, B-LFP48-615MH, and B-LFP80-460MH lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery portfolios have received UL2580 and IEC 62619 certifications. UL2580 is the standard provided by UL, the global safety science organization, for battery products at the cell, module, and battery pack level to ensure safe use in a variety of power or transportation-related applications. IEC 62619 specifies requirements and tests for the safe operation of rechargeable batteries and battery packs in industrial applications. This prestigious certification will now apply to BSL Battery – Industrial Forklift Lithium Batteries. The UL2580 and IEC 62619 safety testing of forklift lithium-ion batteries has several benefits: By complying with the requirements and tests specified in the standard to ensure product safety, manufacturers can ensure that consumers use their batteries safely. It is well known that lithium-ion batteries can catch fire or explode if not properly designed, manufactured, or used. UL2580 and IEC 62619 mechanical testing and electrical testing help identify potential safety hazards and reduce the risk of accidents. Many countries have regulations that require products containing lithium-ion batteries to meet certain safety standards. Testing UL2580 and IEC 62619 can help manufacturers meet these requirements in the global marketplace. Consumers are becoming more aware of the potential safety hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries. By testing UL2580 and IEC 62619 and complying with the standards, manufacturers can gain consumer trust and differentiate their products from competitors. The mechanical testing, electrical testing, environmental testing, and test procedures for tolerance to battery failure specified in UL2580 and IEC 62619 can help identify potential quality issues with lithium-ion batteries, thereby improving product quality, design, manufacturing, and performance.
Russelectric emergency power system redundant PLC controls and manual backup capability
Reliable paralleling switchgear ideal for emergency backup power Russelectric, A Siemens Business, offers its robust and reliable Emergency Power System which provides backup power during a utility power loss. The paralleling switchgear systems offer redundant programmable logic controller (PLC) controls and manual backup capability. Trusted by the largest critical facilities in the world, the Russelectric Emergency Power System has been used by hospitals, data centers, telecommunications and banking facilities, as well as airports, water and wastewater treatment plants, and renewable energy facilities. Complete systems are custom-designed and fully manufactured by Russelectric. All systems are UL-listed and can incorporate such sophisticated control functions as peak shaving and load curtailment. Russelectric paralleling systems incorporate dual, redundant, hot-synchronized PLCs for system control. The unique system design allows manual start and synchronization of generator sets if automatic controls malfunction. Discrete switches, meters and control devices are standard to allow manual control capability if both system PLCs fail. Designed for maximum safety and operating simplicity, the systems are supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA)-capable. A 23-inch LCD HMI touchscreen display enables operators to view system one-line diagrams, alarms, and setpoints. Load demand sensing determines the number of engine generators in operation based on the loading. The system permits first-priority loads to transfer to the connected engine generator set while delaying the transfer of lower-priority loads until additional generator capacity has been connected. Lower priority loads then transfer to the emergency power system as generator sets are added to the bus.
Webasto Charging Systems expands access to ProCore Edge 10 Bay Industrial Charger
PosiCharge, the industrial charging division of Webasto Charging Systems Inc., a subsidiary of Webasto Group, its divestment of the charging business to Transom Capital Group, has announced the expansion of its PosiCharge ProCore Edge™ line with the introduction of the ProCore Edge 10 Bay. Formerly reserved for select key customers, the ProCore Edge 10 Bay is now available to all Material Handling Equipment customers and other interested parties. The ProCore Edge 10 Bay seamlessly integrates into Webasto Charging Systems’ intelligent charging solutions, catering to various industrial material handling batteries of different types, brands, voltages, and sizes. Leveraging proven technology from the ProCore line, the Edge series features intelligent controls, a universal board, and proprietary algorithms for optimal lead acid and lithium battery performance. Tailored to meet the charging demands of large-scale operations, the ProCore Edge 10 Bay is an ideal solution for facilities that require continuous charging. It is particularly suitable for environments that operate around the clock or have double shifts. This innovative charging system optimizes operations, enhances productivity, and ensures workplace safety. It achieves this by freeing up warehouse space, reducing personnel requirements, and eliminating the need for battery rooms. The ProCore Edge 10 Bay is equipped with wireless BMID, delivering real-time battery data, and ensuring safe and efficient charging. It is a cost-effective solution that offers maximum ROI and strengthens Webasto Charging Systems’ presence in conventional, opportunity, and fast charge sectors. The ProCore Edge 10 Bay is available for immediate shipping, making it an attractive option for businesses that require quick and reliable charging solutions. The ProCore Edge’s intelligent system offers multi-voltage flexibility and seamless adaptability to any battery chemistry, and a user-friendly interface supports it. Utilizing the same innovative app as the original ProCore series, operators can easily program, download data, and manage their fleet from smartphones. Remote setup, troubleshooting, and real-time monitoring capabilities ensure efficient charging management from any location.
Delta’s 30 kW Wireless Charging System for electric forklifts, heavy-load AGVs, and yard trucks
Delta has recently obtained Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval and METus* certification. The M∞Vair 30 kW model boasts 95% contactless power conversion efficiency and can be applied to large industrial e-vehicles, such as electric forklifts, heavy-load AGVs, yard trucks, and airport ground support equipment. Dave Morse, Vice President of Delta Americas’ Industrial and Automation, said, “As Industry 4.0 continues to evolve, Delta has leveraged its core competence in high-efficiency power electronics to develop innovative wireless charging systems capable of supporting the surging demand for electric forklifts and AGVs in smart factories. Our state-of-the-art 30kW wireless charging model is ready to enhance productivity and energy efficiency of electric industrial vehicles used in the logistics and manufacturing industries across the U.S. market.” Delta’s M∞Vair Series Wireless Charging Systems adopt industrial wireless charging technology, which is licensed by WiTricity, a U.S. wireless charging technology company. The Series features 1 kW and 30 kW models, along with the 3.3 kW and 10 kW ones, expected to arrive later this year. Each model is composed of a primary unit, which is connected to the AC supply, and a secondary unit for battery connection in industrial vehicles. The Series allows wireless charging over a gap of 20 mm to max. 150 mm for various batteries with 93% – 95% power conversion efficiency to reduce unnecessary energy waste for clients. The Series’ FCC and CE certifications are testaments to the safety and stability of its inductive coupling for power transmission and the use of the wireless communication Pad-to-Pad Link (PPL). The PPL communication is developed exclusively by Delta for wireless electrical transferal. It successfully solves the cross-talk issue of WIFI devices and allows a secondary unit of the Series to communicate only with the primary unit at a distance of 200 mm, ensuring the control of the wireless transfer of 30 kW power. This innovation demonstrates both Delta’s capability of cutting-edge technologies and the reliability of our wireless charging solutions. *Note: METus mark indicates that a product has met the minimum requirements of the applicable safety standards. It also validates the product’s continued compliance with these standards as evidenced by periodic factory follow-up inspections.
EnerSys® shows customer-driven solutions at MODEX 2024
EnerSys ® has outlined its commitment to providing customers with solutions to achieve true optimization during an onsite press conference at MODEX 2024. Opening with remarks from Lisa Hartman, Vice President Investor Relations & Corporate Communications at EnerSys, and the company’s President of Motive Power Global, Chad Uplinger, both leaders briefly commented on current market trends and customer challenges, how these trends have influenced product development and 2024 (FY25) growth initiatives for its Motive Power line of business. “Helping customers tackle change and its subsequent challenges drives everything we do – from the development of our advanced technologies, to how we align with OEMs on integration, to how we work with customers to identify and help achieve their goals,” said Uplinger. “Ultimately, our success rests on that of our customers – developing and offering optimized power solutions that enable them to address market headwinds and keep their operations productive and resilient.” Noting some of the key market drivers mentioned by Chad Uplinger during the press conference, Harold Vanasse, Senior Director of Marketing, Motive Power Global at EnerSys, also discussed a few of the company’s newest solutions being showcased by EnerSys ® at MODEX in booth B8032. “Labor is a big challenge our customers have been facing – even before the pandemic. With a roughly 43% turnover rate in warehousing 1, many customers are looking to become more resilient by automating their operations as much as possible,” said Vanasse. “To help achieve true automation, we are showcasing our NexSys ® AIR wireless charger that eliminates the need for workers to monitor and maintain mechanical charging connections. While compatible with all our major battery technologies, it’s a perfect match with our NexSys ® maintenance-free batteries to help AGV fleets operate more productively and autonomously.” The NexSys ® AIR wireless charger features contact-free charging pads – eliminating the maintenance and wear associated with physical connections. It integrates into a range of AGV applications with charging stations that can be installed in a variety of locations throughout facilities. Each NexSys ® AIR wireless charger station offers intuitive touchscreen controls with added safety features that include Foreign Object Detection (FOD) and Live Object Detection (LOD). “Between price volatility for fossil fuels and 67% of companies planning to hold supply chains responsible for environmental KPIs 2 , customers running outdoor fleets or specialized attachments are looking for alternatives to internal combustion engine-powered equipment,” added Vanasse. “As a powerful option, we’re featuring our new 80-volt NexSys ® iON battery and NexSys ® + Outdoor charger. Whether alone or used together, these provide many traditional Class 4 and 5 internal combustion engine fleets the ability to go electric – reducing emissions and carbon footprint. In addition to being highly energy efficient, our entire line of maintenance-free NexSys ® batteries does not require watering, which results in water savings as well.” Designed for high-demand applications, the 80-volt version of the NexSys ® iON battery offers the same UL2580 and ISO26262 ratings as the rest of the NexSys ® iON line of batteries – providing rugged, dependable power for indoor/outdoor equipment and applications involving specialized attachments. The new IP54-rated NexSys ® + Outdoor charger brings the advanced performance of the popular NexSys ® + charger to equipment operating at building material yards, airports, farms, rental facilities, ports, cargo terminals, and other working environments exposed to the weather. “We’re always trying to understand customer needs and apply a ‘total systems approach’ to achieving their goals. These new products expand our ability to apply that approach for customers deploying AGVs and electrifying outdoor equipment,” concluded Vanasse. “Our full array of options enables us to address a lot of our end-users application challenges – whether indoors or outside, human-driven or automated.”
Stryten Energy launches new line of lithium batteries at MODEX 2024
The M-Series Li600 available in Class I, II and III is the latest addition to Stryten Energy’s portfolio of motive power battery solutions. Stryten Energy LLC, a U.S.-based energy storage solutions provider, will launch the M-Series Li600, a new line of Class I, II, and III lithium batteries, at MODEX 2024 in Atlanta. Li600 batteries, the latest addition to Stryten Energy’s extensive motive power offerings, are available in Class I, II, and III, in a full range of voltages with optional cold storage capability down to -40 C. The Li600 for Class III features an onboard charger option. The full line of Li600 batteries is compatible with the M-Series X-3 and X-7 chargers. Visitors to Stryten Energy’s Booth #B1813 will see: Lithium and Advanced Lead Batteries: New M-Series Li600 Class I, II, and III Lithium Solutions: The Li600 is based on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry. This chemistry has a longer calendar life and a longer cycle life than other lithium chemistries. It is a cost-competitive option, comprised of readily available materials, and is one of the safest lithium technologies. Key features include a fully configurable CANbus protocol, remote monitoring capable, comprehensive diagnostics via a color touch screen, and auto hibernation/sleep mode after a period of inactivity to prevent unintended discharge. The M-Series Li600 products are designed to meet UL2580, and UL certification is in process. M-Series T310 Lead Solution: The T310 low-maintenance tubular offers the best level of power, performance, cost and reduced maintenance for medium to heavy-duty lift truck applications. Stryten Energy’s round tube design is more efficient and delivers longer run times than competitive square tube designs. Opportunity and Fast Charging Solution: The M-Series X-7 4-bay charger delivers 30kW of power while handling lead and lithium battery types, and can be configured for standard, opportunity or fast charging. Its modular design offers flexibility, reduced operating costs, and accelerated charging times to meet the demands of the toughest fleets. Energy Performance Management Software: Stryten Energy inCOMMAND™ is an energy performance management software tool that makes it easy to design and deploy web-connected battery and charger solutions. inCOMMAND allows dealers and end users to monitor and manage their batteries and chargers right from their computers. A demo of inCOMMAND will be available at the booth. “At Stryten Energy, we understand the dynamic needs of today’s material handling industry,” said Matt Gould, Vice President of Industrial Sales and Service at Stryten Energy. “With the addition of the M-Series Li600 line, we are a “one-stop-shop” to serve our customers’ needs with a complete portfolio of battery technologies.” Stryten Energy also provides comprehensive, nationwide motive power services that ensure fleets operate at full capacity at all times. The Li600 line is field serviceable by Stryten Energy’s service network strategically located across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Trained stored energy experts provide planned maintenance, repair services, predictive service, installations, de-installation, recycling, application audits, power studies, training, and inspections.
Green Cubes Technology announced Lithium SAFEFlex PLUS Batteries for motive power applications
As electrification of material handling equipment continues to gain traction, Green Cubes offers modular battery technology to ensure safety and sustainability for electric fleets. Green Cubes Technology (Green Cubes), a producing Lithium-ion (Li-ion) power systems that facilitate the transition from lead-acid batteries and Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) power to green Lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery power, has announced Lithium SAFEFlex PLUS Motive Power Lithium Batteries. The batteries are sized to fit the standard material handling lead acid battery compartment and meet truck battery weight requirements. “With an enhanced feature set developed based on ten years of experience with the groundbreaking Lithium SAFEFlex product line, Lithium SAFEFlex PLUS is a comprehensive battery solution designed to meet the cost, performance, efficiency, and durability requirements of the rugged warehouse environment,” said Robin Schneider, Director of Marketing for Green Cubes. “The Lithium SAFEFlex PLUS drop-in replacement batteries make upgrading from Lead Acid to Lithium simple and the modular design improves serviceability and facilitates family safety certifications.” The battery’s flexible design is ideal for high-current truck applications and will perform safely and efficiently even in extremely low-temperature cold storage operations. Additional features include modular design with individual cell monitoring, distributed BMS intelligence and data logging, advanced Wi-Fi connectivity, and network security protocols. Charge ports or single-point battery connections replicate today’s lead acid without special truck or charger modifications. Lithium SAFEFlex PLUS Motive Power Lithium Batteries will be available for shipment in 36V and 48V models in the second half of the year.
Green Cubes announces battery pack to power computer cart systems
Slim, rugged portable pack is UL-certified to power multiple devices at different voltages with built-in DC adapters. Green Cubes Technology (Green Cubes), the leader in producing lithium-ion power systems that facilitate the electrification of mobile workstations, today announced the Green Cubes Power Bank, a slim, rugged portable battery pack to extend the runtime of laptops and small computer systems. “Powering a laptop or computer system has never been easier using the adjustable DC output from the Power Bank,” said Robin Schneider, Director of Marketing for Green Cubes. “Simply connect any commercial power supply up to 100W with a USB-C connection for dependable, extended power.” With a universal DC output and built-in charger, the Power Bank simplifies running mobile computing platforms for longer with a fully configurable output voltage and 230 Whr capacity rating. “The Power Bank features two independent DC outputs and built-in DC regulators, so multiple devices can be powered at different voltages from the same battery,” said Wayne Pavlovic, Founder and CTO for Simplifi Medical. “We simply program the voltage of the battery to the requirement of our devices, and we can power a monitor and a micro-PC from the same battery pack on our portable medical cart.” The Green Cubes Power Bank is now available for implementation with OEM cart systems.
Forklift-International and Material Handling Wholesaler will be at MODEX 2024
Forklift International.com and Material Handling Wholesaler will have a booth at MODEX 2024 on March 11 – 14 in Atlanta, GA. All industrial equipment dealers should stop by booth #B7214 and demo the Forklift software and see how you can get your equipment online, plus much more. There will be a special offer for dealers who sign up for an annual dealer membership. Stop by the booth for details. Forklift-International.com is the largest online market for used forklifts, attachments, and work platforms.
EnerSys® to premier latest NexSys® charger innovations at MODEX 2024
EnerSys® will premier its latest NexSys® charging innovations at MODEX 2024 – the NexSys® AIR wireless charger and the NexSys®+ Outdoor charger. Engineered for a wide range of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), the new NexSys® AIR wireless charger offers a space-saving design to provide integration flexibility while eliminating mechanical charging connections and related maintenance. It also provides advanced safety features that help protect workers and equipment – giving facility operators and AGV Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) an integrated, safe charging solution to optimize both efficiency and equipment autonomy. Designed to withstand the elements, the new NexSys®+ Outdoor charger provides the advanced performance and features of the NexSys®+ charger, protected by an IP54 rated enclosure for protection against dust, water, and seasonal temperatures. The NexSys®+ Outdoor charger is ideal for use at farms, airports, building material yards, rental facilities, ports, cargo terminals and other working environments exposed to the weather. Both the NexSys® AIR wireless charger and NexSys®+ Outdoor charger are compatible with all EnerSys® battery technologies, including traditional flooded lead-acid, Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) and lithium-ion (Li-ion). “As material handling applications continue to migrate towards automation and electrification, EnerSys is committed to offering customers advanced charging systems, like the NexSys®AIR wireless charger and the NexSys®+ Outdoor charger to complement our proven battery technologies – including our advanced NexSys® line of maintenance-free batteries,” said Harold Vanasse, Senior Director of Marketing, Motive Power Global at EnerSys. “Our goal is to ensure fleet managers and OEMs have the broadest possible selection of motive power technologies to support their operations – including those that are automated or outdoors.” These next-generation chargers will be showcased at MODEX 2024 in EnerSys booth B8032 from March 11-14, 2024, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, GA. Both chargers will also be displayed in EnerSys trade show stands at Intermodal (booth M010) in Sao Paulo, Brazil from March 5-7, 2024, and LogiMat (booth 10B09) in Stuttgart, Germany from March 19-21, 2024.
Flux Power appoints Kevin Royal as Chief Financial Officer
Veteran Financial Leader to Fortune 500 Technology Companies to Lead Next Phase of Company Growth Flux Power Holdings, Inc., a developer of advanced lithium-ion energy storage solutions for electrification of commercial and industrial equipment, has announced the appointment of Kevin Royal, CPA, a seasoned finance and accounting executive, as Chief Financial Officer of the Company, replacing Chuck Scheiwe as part of a planned transition given the Company’s strong financial performance and inflection point. Scheiwe will remain with Flux Power in a consulting role for the near term to help facilitate the transition. Kevin Royal brings over 20 years of experience as a Chief Financial Officer for four publicly traded companies, with oversight of Finance, Accounting, IT, HR, Legal, Investor Relations, and M&A. He has a history of demonstrated achievements contributing to superior corporate performance through expert alignment of financial initiatives and operational goals with organizational objectives. Before joining Flux Power, Kevin was Executive Vice President and CFO for Zovio Inc. (formerly Bridgepoint Education) where he led vision, strategy, and execution for all facets of corporate finance and accounting. Previously he was Senior Vice President and CFO of Maxwell Technologies, a publicly traded developer and manufacturer of energy storage and power delivery products for automotive, heavy transportation, renewable energy, wireless communications, and industrial and consumer electronics applications. There he introduced product cost reduction and pricing controls that substantially increased gross profit margins from the sale of the company’s energy storage, power delivery, and radiation-mitigated microelectronic products. He also served as CFO at Blue Coat Systems and Novellus Systems. Kevin holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting, from Harding University and is a Certified Public Accountant. As Chief Financial Officer of Flux Power, Royal will provide financial leadership to assist in building on the Company’s goal of delivering value to its shareholders by implementing short, medium, and long-range financial planning, budget development, risk management, corporate strategic development, system implementation, process improvement, regulatory compliance reporting, financial reporting for management, internal controls and tax advice. “On behalf of our board and management team, I would like to welcome Kevin as our Chief Financial Officer, and we are privileged to have someone of his caliber and financial skill set serve as our CFO,” said Ron Dutt, Flux Power Chief Executive Officer. “I would like to thank Chuck for successfully leading the finance team and for his contribution in helping move Flux Power to this inflection point. We now look forward to leveraging Kevin’s expertise in energy storage and power delivery products. His achievements as well as expertise in financial management of listed companies will make a significant contribution to the strategic operation and development of our company going forward.” Royal added, “I am excited to be appointed as CFO as we prepare Flux Power for the future with a pipeline of orders and new customer opportunities that combined with cash profitability improvement initiatives, is leading the company toward near-term profitability. I look forward to working with Ron, the senior leadership team, and our finance team as we continue to execute our strategic and financial priorities and our commitments to all shareholders.”
BBI expands nation-wide field sales team
Battery Builders is excited to announce several new additions to our Field Sales team: Trey Hitson, Director of Sales Trey joined the BBI team in April 2023 and brings a wealth of knowledge from his over 15 years of experience in the Industrial Motive Power industry. When asked about the motivation behind transitioning to the BBI team, he responded, “I have always known the product was top tier from my days selling against them at the beginning of my career. After conversations with the new executive leadership team, I was excited to embrace their vision and recognize the opportunity to expand this business. I am grateful to be entrusted with this responsibility.” Trey currently lives in Maryville, TN, with his wife Crista, 4-year-old daughter Willow Grace, 3 dogs (Buddy, Chippy, & Kirby), and Willow’s American Quarter Horse (Charlotte). Mark Rigor, Regional Sales Manager Mark joined the BBI team in September of 2023. Previously working at Raymond, Power Designers, and Bulldog Batery, Mark has been in the material handling industry for over 22 years. Currently living in Yorba Linda, CA with his wife (Judy), Mark says he was excited to join BBI “because of the exponential growth opportunities and BBI’s reputation for making a quality product”. He shares a lot of excitement about his only daughter (Lisa) who is a Bio-Surgical Specialist in Las Vegas, CA. Andy Trout, Regional Sales Manager Andy joined BBI in August of 2023 and came to us with over 10 years of experience in the battery industry. Before Battery Builders, Andy served as the Customer Support and Sales representative at Complete Power Systems, an independent battery dealer in TN. Earlier this year, Andy relocated from Nashville and accepted the position to head the Mid-East sales region for BBI, sharing it was “a great opportunity to further [his] experience in the material handling world.” Andy now lives in Cincinnati with his fiancée, two cats (Waffles and Olive), and their senior dog (Jack). Led by the direction of John Gaughan, VP of Sales, the creation of our Field Sales team allows BBI to expand our nationwide support to assist in the sales and service of your motive power applications.
Flux Power to exhibit at MODEX 2024 Tradeshow March 11-14 at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta
Company to Showcase its New G2 Product Line of Heavy-Duty Battery Packs and SkyBMS® Telematics Solution Flux Power Holdings, Inc., a developer of advanced lithium-ion energy storage solutions for the electrification of commercial and industrial equipment, has announced it will exhibit at MODEX 2024 in Hall C Booth C4085 at Georgia’s World Congress Center March 11-14. Flux Power will showcase its next-generation battery packs, including lithium-ion solutions for Class I-III material handling equipment. These next-generation lithium-ion battery packs are equipped with newer technology and more capacity for fleet operations with a heavy workload. Along with showcasing the new line of heavy-duty products, Flux Power will also conduct demonstrations of its SkyBMS® telematics solution, which helps operation managers better manage their fleet by providing them with real-time data and actionable insights. ”We look forward to showcasing our complete line to new and existing customers,” said Tod Kilgore, VP of Sales at Flux Power. “Our state-of-the-art lithium-ion solutions solve a variety of existing performance challenges with a common theme: longer run times, sustained high power performance, limited maintenance, and a more sustainable solution. Flux Power delivers these advantages at price points that significantly lower the total cost of ownership compared to conventional battery offerings.”
Analysis of the Top Nine misunderstandings about forklift lithium-ion batteries
Interest in and use of lithium-ion batteries in industrial trucks is growing. There are many advantages to this revolutionary technology, most notably its fast charging and ability to charge “on the go” rather than “charge to full” all at once. However, there remains widespread confusion and misunderstanding about battery technology and its suitability for material handling applications. Visit our Forklift Lithium Battery website or read on for what BSL Battery – Industrial technical experts have to say about some misconceptions. 1. We do a lot of heavy lifting that electric machines can’t handle With modern battery-operated equipment, lifting capacity is not an issue. If the capacity plate rating is the same as the equivalent internal combustion engine (ICE) model, the ability to lift heavier loads is also the same. For example, Hyster®’s updated J2.5-3.0XNL trucks are designed to match hydrostatic IC trucks. Also, remember that while lifting uses a lot of energy, electric forklifts are more energy efficient than IC forklifts, so the only real potential drawback is the machine’s ability to store and use that energy. This means the end user must consider whether there are sufficient opportunities to recharge the battery throughout the day. This video provides an in-depth look at how lithium-ion technology works and how Hyster® can replace multiple lead-acid batteries depending on truck power requirements while increasing productivity! 2. You can get all the benefits by replacing your lead-acid batteries with lithium-ion batteries Of course, aftermarket lithium-ion batteries are a huge improvement over lead-acid batteries, but to enjoy the real benefits, you should consider a forklift factory-approved OEM lithium-ion battery manufacturer, which has inherent advantages. For example, the integrated battery has CANbus connectivity, which means the truck’s factory BDI still works accurately. The OEM technician can connect to the battery and diagnose any issues through the truck software, eliminating the need to call a 3rd party provider. In addition, BSL Battery is a major lithium battery supplier in China. It serves Toyota Material Handling, Combilift Forklift, Clark Forklift, Xilin Forklift and Raniero Forklift. When considering a swap solution (lead-acid batteries replacing equivalent lithium-ion batteries), users must determine whether their application allows sufficient time to charge the batteries. They also need to consider additional energy infrastructure costs, such as cables and sockets capable of handling higher power consumption. In addition, they need to install new power points closer to work areas or break rooms to avoid unnecessary trips to existing lead-acid charging room distances. 3. Lithium-ion batteries are very expensive It’s imperative to think about long-term costs. Although lithium-ion batteries have a higher initial purchase price than lead-acid batteries, their cost per cycle is lower due to their longer lifespan, making them the most cost-effective solution in the long run. BSLBATT’s lithium-ion batteries, in particular, have extremely low internal resistance and the most efficient technology, which means less grid energy is wasted and saves 30% (charging and CO2 emissions) compared to lead-acid batteries. Therefore, in the long run, with the decline of lithium carbonate, now comparing the prices of lithium-ion batteries and lead-acid batteries, purchasing a lithium battery with the same capacity only costs 1.5 times that of a lead-acid battery. Lithium batteries are cheaper in the long run. 4. We need to replace our entire lead-acid fleet with lithium-ion machines Of course, it often makes sense to replace the entire fleet so that operators don’t have to switch between different charging regimes and operating procedures. It also makes sense for the aging fleet, which has decided to retire all existing machines and “start over.” Replacement is also recommended when a business has an incentive to replace. This could be a commitment to reduce overall CO2 emissions or a desire to eliminate hazardous battery replacement or reduce ongoing maintenance requirements. However, if the utilization of certain trucks is not sufficient to warrant lithium-ion batteries, a mixed fleet is possible and we have helped many customers with phased rollouts. If you operate a mixed fleet, you need to know that lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries often require different chargers, so charging areas may need to be marked and instructions provided to staff. 5. Our power supply must be upgraded Yes, lithium-ion battery chargers have higher output, which means they require higher input current than lead-acid chargers. However, BSL Battery – Industrial offers a variety of battery/charger combinations based on utilization, application intensity, and available charging window. At the same time, to reduce customers’ charger investment, we have communicated with the world-renowned SPE, Fronius, and Delta-Q, which means that customers do not need to purchase additional chargers when switching to BSLBATT lithium batteries using chargers from these three brands. Charger! 6. Our drivers must be retrained and change their work habits Agreed, retraining is required as standard AS2359:2 practice states that each user should have a safe work systems policy in place, including supervisory practices, on-the-job training, and ongoing regularly updated training. Therefore, users must maintain records of ongoing training. The good news is that lithium-ion batteries are easy to use The battery management system communicates with the charger to prevent overcharging. It manages power delivery to prevent excessive discharge. It does not require charging or watering to work properly. The operator must simply know how to plug it into the charger when not used. Our clients found that their work habits needed to change, but for the better. Battery maintenance tasks are virtually eliminated, as are hazardous battery replacement and battery damage due to battery misuse. Unlike lead-acid batteries, lithium-ion batteries thrive on opportunistic charging, meaning operators can charge the forklift during breaks. The charging process will be faster and easier since there is no longer a need to open the hood to connect the charger to the truck. 7. Lithium-ion batteries are not as stable as lead-acid batteries and pose safety threats This is a common myth, but lithium-ion batteries are safer than traditional lead-acid batteries. Although the energy density is higher than that of lead-acid batteries, BSLBATT lithium-ion batteries have multi-level safety systems such as cells, modules, and casings, as well as a battery management system (BMS) with comprehensive protection functions.
DESTACO presents all-electric clamping system
The 92W Series Power Clamp saves costs, CO2 and energy on the way to Industry 4.0 DESTACO, a provider of automation, clamping, and gripping solutions, has introduced the new intelligent 92W Series Electric Power Clamps. Operating completely without compressed air, the 92W power clamps set a new standard for efficient and environmentally friendly production operations. They reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions – and as a plug-and-play solution, they pave the way for exceptionally flexible production processes. “Electric drives have clear advantages over pneumatic drives,” explained Christian Schubert, Global Product Manager for DESTACO. “They reduce CO2 emissions and energy costs by up to 85%. Their use of electric motors helps eliminate the need for lossy compressed air lines and associated pneumatic equipment. Electric drives also offer a high degree of flexibility, which significantly reduces the need for an expansive spare-parts inventory.” The 92W power clamp’s integrated intelligence also reduces the need for additional components, as it provides essential data for process optimization even without external sensors. Even during installation, these values allow the user to conveniently adjust the speed, positioning and/or torque to “fine-tune” production. During subsequent operations, the values are used to analyze process quality. The control of the electric clamps is decentralized and attached directly to the production devices, which reduces cable lengths and cabling costs. In this way, all automation functions can be implemented decently. This not only frees up space, but also ensures seamless integration of the clamping technology into the production system. Reliable voltage, signal, and data management also facilitate digital planning, along with providing quick and easy installation and commissioning. All of these features save time and, together with process optimization, reduce labor costs. Higher initial investments are therefore amortized in one to three years, depending on the configuration. The advantages of the new 92W power clamps will be able to help many manufacturing companies switch their production from pneumatic to electric drives. Many innovative companies are already using the first 92W power clamp units in their production processes and achieving excellent results. The powerful 92W electric power clamps hold workpieces in several positions; for example, during the production and assembly of body shells. Thanks to the power clamp’s integrated component control, no external sensors are required. In combination with the unit’s integrated tolerance compensation, this enables the control and production of different component types. In parallel to the smart electric clamps of the 92W Series, further economical variants of the series are being launched to the market. DPE/RPE Grippers, GTB/RPE Servo Positioners, and EcoCup Vacuum Cups also feature the advantages of electric drives.
Hyster introduces Power Cellect™, providing forklift operations freedom and flexibility
The new Hyster Power Cellect option enables users to easily change among major battery sources with no external accessories, software downloads, or integrations required Hyster Company has announced the launch of Power Cellect, an optional package available on 27 Hyster® electric forklift models. Power Cellect empowers users to easily switch power sources in electric trucks between traditional lead acid and low-maintenance battery solutions like thin plate pure lead (TPPL) and lithium-ion. The solution provides a straightforward path for customers to change the truck’s battery type, and it is particularly effective for fleets transitioning to low-maintenance battery solutions over time as well as for equipment that will be used for different applications with varied battery availability throughout its life. Hyster previously offered a lithium-ion-ready option on electric trucks, which enabled a smooth switch between lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries. Power Cellect expands on the compatibility of lithium-ion ready by adding TPPL batteries to the mix and uses an electronic Controller Area Network (CANbus) for communication between a qualified battery and the truck. Once the battery is changed out, truck settings can be easily changed to switch power sources. “Whether sustainability goals, regulations compliance or other forces are driving electrification decisions, the common thread is that operations need flexibility. Power Cellect avoids locking operations into a single power option for the life of their equipment, and eliminates the complications and compromises of third-party setups,” says James Nielson, Hyster Senior Business Product Manager for Motive Power and Electrification. “Facilitating this fluidity across battery types is the latest example of Hyster powering possibilities for forklift fleets working in all our customers’ applications, even the toughest, most demanding jobs.” In addition to providing a convenient shift in motive power sources, Power Cellect offers major functional benefits. The truck-side battery early warning system includes lift interrupt and traction performance cutback capabilities, and the truck’s battery discharge indicator (BDI) accurately portrays a state of charge across approved battery types, thereby eliminating the need for secondary displays and indicators. An internal battery protection function triggers a controlled shutdown when the battery reaches complete discharge, and operations can view additional battery data, such as battery state of health and lifetime discharge when the Hyster Tracker telemetry system is added.
Dialight unveils award-winning battery backup model LED High Bay
Dialight, a hazardous and industrial LED lighting innovation, has announced an all-new battery back-up model for its iconic LED High Bay. These state-of-the-art fixtures now offer even greater peace of mind for enhanced safety in harsh industrial environments, such as Oil and Gas Refineries, Metal and Steel, Petrochemical Plants, Pulp and Paper Mills, Water/Wastewater Treatment Plants, General Manufacturing facilities, and more. Proper lighting is one of the most important ways to ensure safety for workers in harsh and hazardous industrial work sites. These applications are often hampered by extreme conditions, including dust, debris, high temperatures, vibration, and power outages. In particular, power outages pose a significant safety risk by instantly plunging areas into darkness. Workers must remain safe and have adequate egress lighting to safely exit a potentially dangerous area. Dialight’s solution ensures that the fixture will stay illuminated throughout the emergency loss of power. “Since 2009 the Dialight High Bay has been the flagship of our Solid State Lighting division,” said Dialight CEO Fariyal Khanbabi. “Over the years, this fixture has received numerous awards for advancements in energy efficiency, longevity, and specialized protections for harsh industrial environments. Integrating our all-new battery backup system into the High Bay gives our customers operating in challenging conditions even greater peace of mind and demonstrates our continued dedication to innovation in the field of Industrial Lighting and safety.” Dialight’s new auxiliary battery backup solution comes factory-installed with premium NiMH battery technology making installation quick and easy. It boasts the widest operating temperature range for any industrial battery backup LED lighting fixture from -20°C to +55°C (-4°F to +131°F) and can provide illumination for a field-selectable duration from 60 minutes to 180 minutes to meet Life Safety Codes by National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 101® guidance on emergency lighting. Available with either permanent maintained or switch-maintained operation and 10W and 20W battery options, the Dialight Battery Backup LED High Bay covers a wide range of lighting needs in industrial and hazardous locations and has been certified to UL1598/A, UL924, UL844, CID2, CIID1, and CIIID1&2. The fixture’s self-testing and diagnostics functionality removes the need for push-button tests or costly installation of a separate wire run from the High Bays to a switch or button on the ground for testing. Red and Green indicator lights on the fixture make visual inspection easy, and automatic weekly and yearly testing offers peace of mind, ensuring the battery is charging and operating properly on an ongoing basis. The new Dialight Battery Backup LED High Bays are compatible with advanced sensors and controls, including microwave occupancy sensors and Dialight IntelliLED™ wireless controls. Best of all, Dialight’s LED High Bay products are backed by an industry-leading 10-year warranty (excluding batteries) and are recognized by the National Lighting Bureau’s Trusted Warranty Program. The all-new Battery Backup LED High Bay is currently available for sale in North America.
Raymond implements energy storage and solar energy generating system
New behind-the-meter storage practice demonstrates potential benefits, including lower costs The Raymond Corporation has finalized its deployment of a full-scale battery energy storage system, solar microgrid array, and warehouse energy management system at its distribution warehouse in Greene, New York. The goal is to demonstrate continuous system benefits of lower energy costs, peak demand management, and resiliency for warehouses. “With the implementation of behind-the-meter storage at our distribution center, we have gained insights into the benefits of the system in material handling applications specifically related to alleviating increased demand associated with charging of advanced power solutions including lithium,” said Jennifer de Souza, vice president, energy solutions, procurement and leasing, The Raymond Corporation. “We are excited to continue to demonstrate a new energy storage process and solution for warehouse energy management that will reduce utility costs for warehouse owners.” This energy storage program began as a joint project in March 2019 with Binghamton University and was partially funded by a $1 million award from the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority. The first phase included the installation of a 200kW Photovoltaic (solar) system and a 250kW/420kWh Battery Energy Storage System at Raymond’s distribution warehouse. The second and third stages of the project developed and demonstrated the installation of advanced lithium-ion battery chargers utilizing proprietary software to balance grid and microgrid charging for power optimization with a priority on renewable energy as the primary goal. The microgrid installation has demonstrated the benefits of behind-the-meter energy generation and storage combined with forklift-to-grid charging systems. “The energy storage solution can help transform warehouses into controllable energy hubs or Virtual Power Plants (VPP), which can be optimized to support the power grid during normal and peak grid conditions while improving sustainability and carbon neutrality,” de Souza said. With insights from this project, Raymond is now deploying the installation of a front-of-the-meter rooftop system at its Syracuse, New York, parts distribution facility. See Raymond Corporation at MODEX 2024 Booth #B5406