Switch Boost™ 24V System
Overview
Our Switch Boost™ Systems redefine the standards of power supply for railway switches, harnessing the cutting-edge technology of ELDC Ultracapacitors and Hybrid Ultracapacitors to deliver unparalleled performance and reliability. Designed to enhance railway operations, our systems optimize power delivery, extend equipment life, and streamline deployment processes. Explore how Redhawk Energy is revolutionizing railway switch power solutions with our Switch Boost™ 24V System.
Application
Railway Power Switches
A railway power switch application requires an AC or DC power source that can provide a high initial current to meet the the in-rush/break-away current demand of the switch or hydraulic motor. This momentary in-rush is followed by a lower level current for a longer duration as the switch throws. Finally, a small rise in current towards the end of the operation usually occurs as the switch drives home.
Batteries have long been used for railway power switch applications. Batteries provide an “instantaneous” and generally “reliable” source of power for operating a railway switch when called upon. However, the batteries often used in these applications do not always provide the desired (or even expected) service life and reliability.
Ultracapacitor Technology
ELDC Ultracapacitors
Ultracapacitors, also known as Supercapacitors or Electrical Double Layer Capacitors (ELDC) are a relatively new energy storage device with capabilities that are a cross between a capacitor and a battery. The fundamental difference between an Ultracapacitor and a battery relates to how energy is stored in the device. In a battery, the energy is stored in an electrochemical form where reactions inside the cell release their charge to create a usable electric current. An Ultracapacitor works on a different principal. Ultracapacitors store energy in electrostatic form where an electric field is created when opposite charges are held separated from each other. Once the field reaches its maximum voltage the Ultracapacitor is charged. When a conductive path is established, electric current flows and the device begins to discharge.
Hybrid Ultracapacitors
Hybrid Ultracapacitors (HCAP) combined with Lithium Ion are an emerging technology for energy storage. HCAPs can replace traditional batteries and offer a more reliable, cost effective solution for 24V railway power switches. The hybrid technology provides a source of short-duration power and energy for long-duration backup. HCAPs are an environmentally friendly power source which do not contain heavy metals (RoHS Compliant), is non-flammable, and poses no risk of explosion or thermal runaway.
Switch Boost™ 24V System
Our innovative Switch Boost™ 24V Systems utilizes either an ELDC Ultracapacitor or Hybrid Ultracapacitor module to provide enhanced power for 24V railway power switches. Taking advantage of the high current and exceptional cycling capability of ultracapacitors and hybrid ultracapacitors, our Switch Boost™ Systems can dramatically improve the performance, life, and reliability of railway power switches, compared to battery-only systems.
Our Switch Boost™ 24V System can be provided as a module-only system or completely integrated system with built-in safety & security and plug-and-play integration for rapid field deployment.
Integrated System
25″W x 25.25″H x 10.25″D
Module-Only
13”L x 6.8”D x 10.88”H (Group 31 Tall)
Integrated System Features
NEMA 1 Rated Enclosure
Electrical componets are internally mounted for operator safety.
Front Mounted Analog Meter
Ability to safely monitor ultracapacitor voltage condition without needing to open the cabinet door.
Front Mounted On/Off Switch
Allows operator to discharge the ultracapacitor module(s) down to a safe voltage for module maintenance, troubleshooting or replacement.
Minimal Maintenance Needs
We recommend a yearly inspection.
Discharge Circuitry
Ability to safely discharge ultracapacitor for service and maintenance.
Overcurrent & Backfeed Protection
Added safety for operation and maintenance by limiting allowable current.
12 to 24V DC-DC Converter (250W)
For charging ultracapacitor from 12V DC power source.
Technology Advantages
Short Duration High Power
Ultracapacitors are well suited for short duration high power demands.
Exceptional Charge Efficiency
An Ultracapacitor is up to 98%+ efficient on charging throughout its life.
By comparison, the charge acceptance efficiency of lead acid batteries is typically in the 70% to 85% range and is based on state of change, charge rates, and plate construction. Charge efficiency also decreases as the battery ages.
Rapid Recharge Time
Ultracapacitors can be recharge extremely fast – from seconds to just a few minutes.
Comparatively lead acid batteries take between 4 and 7 hours with a “sufficient” charging source to recharge from 10% SOC to 100% SOC.
Wide Operating Temperature Range
Ultracapacitors are capable of delivering energy down -40 degrees C with minimal impact on performance and efficiency. While batteries may struggle to perform as temperatures dip below 0 degrees C, Ultracapacitors will be negligibly impacted even under the coldest conditions.
cycle Life
Ultracapacitors have a substantially longer cycle life than lead-acid batteries, capable of providing years of trouble-free service before needing a replacement.
Other Switch Boost™ Systems
In addition to our Switch Boost™ 24V System for high voltage railway switches we also offer 12V and 120V systems that are suitable for powering mainline track switches, yard switches, dark territory switches and more.
Switch Boost™ 12V System
Our Switch Boost™ 12V System utilizes a Hybrid Ultracapacitor (HCAP) module to provide enhanced power and energy for 12V railway power switches. Customization (integrated cabinet, charger, battery and other accessories) available.
Switch Boost™ 120V System
Our Switch Boost™ 120V System utilizes one or two Ultracapacitor (HCAP) modules to provide enhanced power and energy for 120V railway power switches.