Lithium-ion truck range expanded

Linde Material Handling has expanded its range of trucks using lithium-ion (Li-ion) technology following a positive response from the market.

The existing range of pedestrian pallet trucks Linde T16 ION and Linde T18 ION has been extended, with the introduction of pallet trucks with stand-on platforms, low level order pickers and tow tractor models, all with more powerful batteries of 4.5 and 9.0Wh capacity. 

Since the introduction of Li-ion into Linde MH’s product portfolio, these maintenance-free batteries have proved their worth in a range of applications, including cold storage and the food logistics sectors. 

David Bowen, sales support and training manager at Linde says: “With a guaranteed 2,500 recharging cycles, the new range of Li-ion batteries have been proven to last twice as long as lead acid batteries, offering higher energy density and providing more power from the same physical size of battery. Results have shown more than 90% of the charged energy can be used to drive the vehicle, compared to 60% when using conventional lead acid technology.”

In addition, after reaching the end of its guaranteed service life, the Li-ion battery continues to function. With 75% of its original storage capacity still available, the battery can be used for up to 10 years or longer depending on the application.

Li-ion batteries can be recharged using a standard lateral charging plug and are mainly suitable for logistic applications which do not involve continuous operation over a full shift, such as loading and unloading of lorries. Breaks in activity can be used to recharge the batteries – 60% of full charge is restored after 40 minutes and a full charge takes 90 minutes.

The use of lithium-iron phosphate technology enables the batteries to function at extreme temperatures (from -35 to +45°C) and also to withstand vibrations from the trucks during daily operation.

When converting to the new technology, Linde MH will supply the appropriate charging equipment.

The Battery Management System (BMS) communicates with the truck and the charger via a Controller Area Network (CAN) bus interface. The BMS indicates the state of charge, the remaining operating time, and ensures the battery is neither completely discharged nor overcharged, contributing to optimum service life.

Preparations are underway in Linde MH’s development department for the first generation of rider counterbalance trucks featuring lithium-ion batteries. Unlike the present range of warehouse trucks, these will be designed with a 48V electrical system.

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