Saft Presents a Full Range of Battery Systems for Rail Applications
12 September 2006 15:39
Berlin , September 14, 2006 - At InnoTrans 2006, Saft, the battery systems expert, is presenting its extensive range of nine rail battery systems developed specifically to enable rail operators to benefit from the proven reliability, long-life and guaranteed performance of rechargeable nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) technology. However diverse the application, from the simple replacement of existing equipment to innovative turnkey solutions, designed and assembled as complete power modules for mounting directly onto trains, Saft has the capability to supply the ideal Ni-Cd battery.
Saft is also showing its new advanced traction nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) systems, designed specifically to meet the more sophisticated demands of new rail applications, such the city of Nice's hybrid trams.
Integrated On-board Battery Systems
Saft has a wealth of experience in providing Ni-Cd battery systems from 24 V up to 110 V for engine starting and backup power, as well as auxiliary power for emergency lighting, air conditioning, computing systems and door opening controls. Saft's rail business is continuing to evolve to meet the market challenge of the many global customers who rather than seeking a battery supplier prefer to work with on-board battery system integrators. Saft is now established as a global supplier of fully integrated on-board battery systems customised to meet the requirements of OEMs for:
- Almost any current or future LRV (Light Rail Vehicle)
- Metrom
- EMU (Electrical Multiple Unit)
- DMU (Diesel Multiple Unit)
- Locomotive or high speed rail project
Over the last six years, there have been major changes in the OEM supply chain. OEMs are now seen increasingly as vehicle integrators and providers of after market services. This means that they are forming relationships with fewer partners - those who are capable of supplying fully integrated systems that are ready to 'plug and play'.
Saft has responded to this challenge by enlarging its scope of supply to fully integrate the on-board power function around its traditional core business, the battery. This has called for the development of expertise in the integration of energy, mechanical and monitoring functions as well as design, manufacturing, project management, qualification to all relevant international standards, logistics and local after sales service.
This fully integrated approach enables customers to appoint Saft as a total service provider to take global responsibility for their battery systems, facilitating management of global projects and ensuring that the Saft systems are completely integrated in the supply chain with logistical support for JIT (just in time) delivery.
Simplified Battery Integration
Saft's service simplifies battery integration to the train by taking overall responsibility for the design, manufacture and supply of the entire battery power system supplied complete and ready to fit - including rafts, trays, access mechanisms, water filling systems, isolators, fuses and connectors.
By combining its advanced Ni-Cd rail batteries such as the MATRICS MRX, SRX and SRM series with custom-made containers, Saft can reduce the weight and volume of the total assembly, improving energy efficiency and offering more space for passengers.
Working in close cooperation with the overall rail project team, Saft offers a total design and development service for the production of the optimum integrated battery system including selection of construction materials and locking systems, design of mechanical and electrical interfaces, and vibration and shock testing to all internationally accepted rail standards. This service is backed up by the capability to meet tight production deadlines, with delivery on a JIT basis, and extensive after sales service including collection and recycling of batteries at the end of their life cycle.
Ni-MH Integrated Traction Battery Systems
Saft's new generation integrated Ni-MH (nickel-metal hydride) battery systems offer excellent power storage in a compact, weight-saving, maintenance-free package, making them the ideal solution for various hybrid applications. Each battery system incorporates an active cooling device and battery management control. The whole unit is supplied ready to 'plug and play' in a custom built tray complete with power and communication capabilities and all necessary safety features.
Alstom has already ordered Saft Ni-MH battery systems for its CITADIS trams currently under construction for the city of Nice, in the South of France. The new hybrid trams, due to commence service in 2007, will be able to switch their source of traction power between overhead catenaries and the on-board batteries for wire-free operation as they cross Nice's two historic town squares (Place Masséna and Place Garibaldi), In addition to providing autonomous operation for distances of around 500 metres, the battery systems also needed to be compact enough for installation in the vehicle roof.
For more information on this company:
Saft - Nickel-Cadmium Batteries for Mass Transit Applications
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