Lithium-ion Technology

Lithium-ion technology from Bidvest Materials Handling

Lithium-ion battery powered trucks are able to run reliably and consistently over multiple shifts, reducing time spent on maintenance and charging. As a top supplier of lithium-ion, we make it simple for you to benefit from this cutting-edge technology.

Our Lithium Batteries have a considerably greater energy efficiency, making them an excellent choice for material handling equipment such as forklifts, warehousing equipment, cleaning equipment, ground support equipment, and other industrial applications.

If total cost of ownership is of concern, it’s hard to beat Lithium-ion technology. Lithium-ion powered trucks are able to run reliably and consistently over multiple shifts, reducing time spent on maintenance and charging.

The total cost of ownership is much lower than that of conventional lead acid batteries, enhancing competitive advantage and increasing profitability. The higher energy density and opportunity charging capability of lithium-ion batteries means that there is no requirement for double or triple battery sets for multiple shift applications. This means no battery rooms, expensive changeover equipment or attendant salary costs. Furthermore, being maintenance free, Li+ offers savings on battery water, battery checks and intermittent acid adjustment. Furthermore, being maintenance-free, lithium batteries offer savings on battery water, battery checks, and intermittent acid adjustment.

Lithium battery packs can be configured to fit all battery-powered industrial equipment. The full range includes 12 V, 24 V, 36 V, 48 V, 72 V, 80 V, and 96 V units, from 135 AH up to 700 AH. The approximate typical lead-acid range that is covered is from 75 AH to 1170 AH. Our design team can provide customised solutions for any specific battery requirements, including cold storage below the standard –45°C ratings.

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Lithium-ion batteries do not emit any harmful acidic gases and hydrogen during charging, such as those given off by lead acid batteries. These gases pose a health, corrosive and fire risk. The sulphuric acid-based electrolyte of lead acid batteries also results in corrosion and premature failure of cables, connectors and battery tanks. In addition, the disposal of poisonous lead and sulphuric acid poses an environmental risk. Lithium-ion batteries, on the other hand, can be recycled into their benign base elements of lithium, iron and phosphorus. There is no risk of acid spills causing injury, property damage or environmental contamination. Due to the chemical composition of Lithium-Ion Phosphate (LiFEPO4), the batteries are the safest and most stable of all lithium ion batteries. Each lithium-ion battery pack is equipped with an advanced Battery Management System (BMS) to monitor critical parameters such as short circuit protection, over voltage protection, over current protection, over temperature protection, and under voltage protection, etc. The BMS measures and balances the cells continuously, and can cut the battery if required. It determines the precise input for each cell, and communicates relevant instructions to the charger through the CAN bus communications system. Lithium ion battery ‘super-charging’ eliminates the need for multiple batteries and battery changeovers. This means batteries can be boost-charged during breaks or idle times. This reduces the risk of accidents, and eliminates the need for battery bays with forced ventilation and battery attendants, cutting costs and freeing up valuable space.

The energy density of our lithium-ion battery pack is about 140 Wh/kg, which is three times greater than that of lead acid batteries. Comparatively, the volume of lithium-ion batteries is only about 33% that of lead acid, and only 25% of the weight. This means much higher capacity batteries can be installed in the same compartment, along with greater configuration flexibility. In addition, during charge and discharge, the energy-conversion efficiency of lithium ion is about 98%, compared to a maximum 85% efficiency for lead acid, a 15% improvements that saves on electricity costs and reduces the carbon footprint.

Lithium-ion batteries represent the most advanced battery technology available globally. Their production does not require the use of heavy metals such as cadmium, lead or mercury as present in many conventional traction batteries, which contribute directly to environmental pollution. What’s more, no hydrogen is generated when charging lithium-ion batteries, as is the case with lead acid batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries require no maintenance. This means no additional investment in a battery bay or specialised handling equipment. The lithium-ion batteries are sealed units, meaning they do not require topping up of electrolyte or periodic acid adjustment. As such, they are completely service-free. There is also a handy on-board display to monitor the lithium-ion batteries. Other advantages are that no equalisation charge or cooling periods are required. Simply charge, plug in, and you are good to go!

Lithium-ion battery packs can be configured to fit all electrically-powered industrial equipment. The full range includes 24 V, 36 V, 48 V, 72 V, 80 V and 96 V units, from 150 Ah up to 700 Ah. The approximate typical lead-acid range that is covered is from 190 Ah to 940 Ah. Our design team can provide customised solutions for any specific battery requirements, including cold storage below the standard –20°C rating.

Lithium-ion batteries feature integrated telematics for remote access via the internet, allowing customers to monitor the status of their batteries and charging habits anywhere, anytime.

The absence of corrosive gasses and sulphuric acid, ensures that there is no deterioration to equipment or property due to aggressive corrosion associated with lead acid batteries. This absence of acidic gasses also means that corrosion of battery cables and connectors, forklift cables, harnesses and electronics is a thing of the past, directly reducing machine running costs.

The constant voltage supplied by lithium-ion batteries is also much softer on the forklift electronics – ensuring longer life of expensive forklift components, and forklifts in general, and further reducing lifecycle running costs. This is, of course, also true for industrial equipment other than forklifts. There are no costly cell replacements during the guarantee period common to lead acid batteries. Once lithium-ion batteries fall below an efficient operating nominal capacity of 65%, they can still be used in lighter-duty forklift applications. After completing their life as traction batteries, they can be retained as storage batteries. This means significant added value beyond the initial purpose of the batteries.