Saft is at DSEi 2011 to highlight two significant new hybrid concept applications of its advanced lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery technology in delivering secure, reliable and energy efficient power for military field bases and marine propulsion systems. Visitors to stand N4-365 will also see Saft’s full range of capabilities as a global, multi-technology battery specialist for the most demanding defence applications on land, at sea and in the air. This includes acting as a single-source provider of primary and rechargeable battery solutions, provided ready to ‘plug and play’, for a wide range of military installations from infantry communications and weapon systems to torpedoes, UAVs/UUVs, aircraft and hybrid armoured vehicles.

Li-ion batteries deliver green power for military field bases

Field bases deployed across the globe to support military operations require autonomous power supplies to ensure the reliable operation of their vital systems, especially communications. Currently, they rely completely on conventional diesel gensets. However, the high risks - and consequently high costs - associated with maintaining constant supplies of fuel to bases in remote, and often hostile, locations are now a major concern for all defence agencies.

A new paradigm for energy management is needed, with a focus on the use of local renewable energy sources (wind and solar) combined with efficient energy storage to convert these inherently intermittent power sources into a continuous and reliable supply of electricity for critical systems.

In the civilian world, Saft is pioneering the deployment of Li-ion energy storage technology across a broad spectrum of applications from stand-alone off-grid renewable energy schemes at the kilowatt level to major on-grid installations at the megawatt level. This expertise is now being translated across to military applications where Li-ion technology offers a number of important features, such as: excellent cycling capability, long calendar life (over 20 years at ambient temperature), high energy density, very short response time, high power capability, maintenance free design.

For centralized generation applications requiring a large battery, such as at a Main Operation Base (MOB), Saft’s Intensium Max containerised Li-ion system is the ideal solution. For smaller micro-grid applications, to support decentralized generation at living shelters / accommodation units such as a Forward Operation Base (FOB) Saft offers its Synerion Li-ion modules.

Hybrid marine propulsion

Li-ion technology offers innovative approaches for the creation of highly efficient and costeffective marine propulsion and auxiliary systems, with the capability to achieve significant gains in performance, while saving weight and optimizing the TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) of the complete installation. Saft’s own discussions with industry experts indicate that Li-ion technology will be of particular interest for hybrid propulsion systems in which the batteries work in conjunction with diesel (or possibly gas turbine) generators and electric motors. The specific advantages of this hybrid power approach will vary according to the type of application.

Total battery reliability

Whatever the military application, total battery reliability is key, even when exposed to extreme temperatures, vibration and shocks. Saft uses its sophisticated, fully tested and field proven primary lithium and rechargeable nickel-based and Li-ion technologies to develop the ideal compact, lightweight, robust high performance battery for every requirement. Customised design, to precise specifications, coordinates power storage, electrical systems and charging into autonomous, easy to use, units.

Worldwide reputation

Major defence OEMs and armed forces worldwide, such as the French and German armies, UK MoD, Australian Defence Forces and the US Armed Forces rely on Saft batteries to deliver reliable, high performance, cost-effective and fully integrated power systems. Thanks to its well developed and highly experienced sales and support infrastructure, Saft is able to offer these customers a unique end-to-end programme management service, from initial design concept, through development, prototyping and testing to volume delivery, with comprehensive through-life support and service.