Switch Boost™ 120V System
Overview
RedHawk Energy‘s innovative and patented Switch Boost™ 120V System utilizes one or two Ultracapacitor modules to provide enhanced power for high voltage railway power switches. The Switch Boost™ 120V System offers built-in safety & security and can be easily installed and wired in the field for quick deployment.
Patent No. 11,482,880 B1.
Application
Railway Power Switches
A railway power switch 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 of current for a longer duration as the switch throws.
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 the these applications do not always provide the desired (or even expected) service life and reliability.
A relatively new device for energy storage known as an Ultracapacitor or Supercapacitor can provide significant improvements in both service life and reliability and are ideally suited for the short-time, high current nature of the load profile of a railway power switch.
Switch Boost™ 120V System
Short Duration High Power
Well suited for short duration high power demands common with railway power switches.
Rapid Recharge Time
Can be recharged extremely fast – from seconds to just a few minutes.
By comparison lead acid batteries can take between 4 and 7 hours with a “suffcient” charging source to recharge from 10% SOC to 100% SOC.
Exceptional Charge Efficiency
Up to 98% efficient on charging throughout its life.
By comparison lead acid batteries charge acceptance efficiency is typically in the 70% to 85% range and is based on the state of charge, charge rates and plate construction. Charge efficiency also decreases as the battery ages.
Wide Operating Temperature Range
Capable of delivering energy down to -40°C and even -50°C with minimal impact on performance and efficiency.
By comparison lead acid batteries will struggle to perform as temperatures dip below 0°C.
Unmatched Cycle Life
Can achieve 1,000,000 cycles when operated between full rated voltage and 50% voltage at constant current which equates to approximately 10+ years of service. End-of-life (EOL) is measurable and predictable compared to lead acid batteries.
By comparison lead acid batteries will achieve 300-1,200 cycles and are depth of discharge (DOD) dependent – the deeper discharge the shorter cycle life.
Integrated NEMA 1 Rated Enclosure
Electrical components are internally mounted for operator safety.
Available in two sizes and weights:
– 25.5″W x 24″H x 12″D (68 lbs)
– 21.5″W x 21.25″H x 10.25″D (48.5 lbs)
Minimal Maintenance Needs
We recommend a yearly inspection – check cabinet, clean debris/dirt and check terminal tightness and integrity.
Configurations
Option 1
Pair w/Cabinet Style 120VDC Power System (New or Existing)
Option 2
Pair w/12V signal (or separate) Battery and 12V to 125V DC-DC Converter
In either scenario when the Switch Boost™ 120V System is paired with a battery for “charging“, the Switch Boost™ can dramatically improve the performance, life and reliability of the overall system.
Optional Accessories
– Dual Ultracapacitor Modules in Single Enclosure
– 12V Battery & Charger Pkg (Ni-Cd or Lead Acid)
– 12V to 125V DC-DC Converter Pkg
– Spare Parts Kit
Please inquire for optional accessory availability and pricing.
Other Switch Boost™ Systems
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™ 24V System
Our Switch Boost™ 24V System utilizes a Hybrid Ultracapacitor (HCAP) module to provide enhanced power and energy for 24V railway power switches. Customization (integrated cabinet, charger, battery and other accessories) available.