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 “sufficient” 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.
2000+ 120V Switch Boosts installed
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.