23.06.2006

MAXWELL TECHNOLOGIES Introduces Compact Ultracapacitor Cells for Automotive and Industrial Applications

Maxwell Technologies, available through Glyn High-Tech Distribution, has introduced Power-type versions of its BOOSTCAP “D-Cell” ultracapacitor cells, packs and modules to provide high-performance, “life-of-the system” alternatives to batteries for automotive electrical power network stabilization and industrial applications.

Dr. Richard Balanson, Maxwell’s president and chief executive officer, said that the new, flashlight or torch battery size, BCAP0310 P250 310-farad cell and compact, fully integrated, six-cell 15-volt packs and modules provide simple, low-cost, backup power solutions to avoid malfunctions that occur when multiple simultaneous electrical power demands cause a “voltage sag” that can upset microprocessors that manage electrical subsystems in modern vehicles.

Representative industrial applications include power on demand for robotic systems, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), telecommunication power buffering and back-up, aircraft door and air bag actuation, and solar energy system augmentation.

“With more than 60 million new cars rolling off assembly lines around the world each year, and the proliferation of power-consuming luxury and safety features in current and future vehicles, automotive power network stabilization represents an immediate and very sizeable opportunity for ultracapacitor-based solutions, so we continue to move aggressively to capitalize on Maxwell’s position as the global technology leader,” Balanson said.

Dr. John M. Miller, Maxwell’s vice president for advanced transportation applications, said that the BCAP0310 P250 is the latest addition to company’s line of Power-type ultracapacitor products whose versatility and high performance make them a compelling alternative to battery-based solutions for hybrid drive systems, idle stop-start, all-electric braking and steering and other applications in addition to power network stabilization.