Sponsored Announcement Click here to have your company's message featured! |
|
|
Argonne’s Lithium-Ion Battery Technology
to be Commercialized by BASF
The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory and BASF, the world's largest chemical company, have signed a world-wide licensing agreement to mass produce and market Argonne's patented composite cathode materials to manufacturers of advanced lithium-ion batteries. BASF will conduct further lithium-ion battery material application development in its current Beachwood, Ohio facility. Contingent upon winning a DOE grant under Recovery Act – Electric Drive Vehicle Battery and Component Manufacturing Initiative (DE-FOA-0000026), BASF plans to build one of North America’s largest cathode material production facilities in Elyria, Ohio.
The patented cathode materials licensed to BASF are part of a large and diverse suite of lithium-ion battery inventions and patents developed at Argonne with funding from DOE's Vehicle Technologies Program. The further development and commercialization of the cathode materials will result in advanced batteries that are higher-performing, longer-lasting and safer when compared to the existing technology that has dominated the market for nearly two decades.
“BASF is excited to begin this partnership with Argonne National Laboratory as we look to advance the lithium-ion battery market in North America,” said Joseph Breunig, BASF Corporation President of Market and Business Development. “The aim of our application development team in Beachwood, Ohio, along with our funding proposal to DOE for a world class facility in Elyria, Ohio is to make lithium-ion battery use realistic, affordable and widely available. Partnerships like this are exactly the type of public-private investment commitment that will create a more sustainable environment, help move the economy forward, and create new jobs.”
"This licensing agreement has the potential to put the United States several steps closer to reaching President Obama's goal of having one million Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles on the road by 2015," said Argonne Director Eric Isaacs. "The transfer of Argonne developed battery technology to BASF provides a stellar example of why DOE invests taxpayer dollars into scientific research and development. When federally-funded R&D is commercialized, it enhances our economic competitiveness, energy security and quality of life through innovations in science and technology."
When completed, the proposed BASF facility in Elyria, Ohio is expected to be the largest cathode material production facility in North America. The cathode material licensed from the DOE has been shown to be a material of choice among the largest North American and Asian cell manufacturers that are actively engaged in providing lithium-ion battery solutions to the automotive and other commercial marketplaces. The impact of such a facility is anticipated to be significant as the facility construction and staffing will have a positive economic impact for Ohio and will attract further businesses to North America.
“The strong relationship between BASF and Argonne National Laboratory will accelerate our efforts to commercialize lithium-ion battery materials,” said Dr. Thomas Weber, Managing Director, BASF Future Business. “It will strengthen our competencies, speed up our efforts and show our continued commitment within BASF’s Energy Management cluster. Together we are taking a major step forward in cultivating economically viable opportunities to provide an already proven source of clean energy in North America.”
“With this new license and proposed production plant, BASF will invest substantial financial resources in Ohio to bring good-paying, clean energy jobs to our state,” said U.S. Representative Betty Sutton (D-OH). “The company’s subsequent innovation will spur critically needed jobs in Ohio, where the unemployment rate in April was 10.2 percent. Further, the development of next generation lithium-ion batteries is essential for our country to compete in today’s global economy. Through this development, Ohio can be especially influential in the clean energy jobs of the future.”
“This is one example of how we will make Ohio the Silicon Valley of clean energy manufacturing,” said U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH). “Lithium-ion batteries will be used in electric cars, which represent the future of the auto industry. The agreement with Argonne and the proposed building of the factory will enable Ohioans working in BASF facilities in Beachwood and Elyria to research, develop, and manufacture lithium-ion battery components. This will help bring new economic activity and a cleaner future to our state.”
Argonne's composite cathode material employs a unique combination of lithium and manganese rich mixed metal oxides in a revolutionary materials-design approach to extend the operating time between charges, increase the calendar life and improve the inherent safety of lithium-ion cells. Moreover, the enhanced stability of the composite material permits battery systems to charge at higher voltages, which leads to a substantially higher energy storage capacity than currently available materials through both the higher voltage and higher capacity per unit weight of active material. BASF intends to commercialize these cathode materials for transportation and other applications.
"This licensing agreement has tremendous potential," said Stephen Ban, Director of Argonne's Office of Technology Transfer. "As the world's largest chemical company, BASF's ability to make these advanced materials widely available is beyond compare and will be a significant factor in aiding the penetration of the next generation of lithium-ion batteries into the U.S. marketplace through production facilities planned for the Midwest and elsewhere."
About BASF Future Business GmbH: BASF Future Business GmbH, a 100 percent subsidiary of BASF SE, was founded in April 2001. It aims to open up business areas with above-average growth rates that lie outside BASF's mainstream activities. The company focuses on chemistry-based new materials, technologies and system solutions. BASF Future Business GmbH commissions research from BASF’s R&D units but also cooperates with startup companies, industrial partners, universities and potential customers. Other alternatives include the acquisition of direct stakes, joint ventures with partner companies or provision of venture capital via the subsidiary BASF Venture Capital GmbH. Further information on BASF Future Business is available on the Internet at www.basf-fb.de.
About BASF: BASF Corporation, headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF SE, Ludwigshafen, Germany. BASF has more than 15,000 employees in North America, and had sales of $17.5 billion in 2008. For more information about BASF’s North American operations, or to sign up to receive news releases by e-mail, visit www.basf.com/usa.
BASF is the world’s leading chemical company: The Chemical Company. Its portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics and performance products to agricultural products, fine chemicals as well as oil and gas. As a reliable partner BASF helps its customers in virtually all industries to be more successful. With its high-value products and intelligent solutions, BASF plays an important role in finding answers to global challenges such as climate protection, energy efficiency, nutrition and mobility. BASF has approximately 97,000 employees and posted sales of more than €62 billion in 2008. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt (BAS), London (BFA) and Zurich (AN). Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.
About Argonne: Argonne National Laboratory seeks solutions to pressing national problems in science and technology. The nation’s first national laboratory, Argonne conducts leading-edge basic and applied scientific research in virtually every scientific discipline. Argonne researchers work closely with researcher from hundreds of companies, universities, and federal, state and municipal agencies to help them solve their specific problems, advance America’s scientific leadership and prepare the nation for a better future. With employees from more than 60 nations, Argonne is managed by UChicago Argonne, LLC for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science.
Saelig Introduces New Dynamic Current Loggers for
Automotive Hybrid or Electrical Powertrains
Saelig Company, Inc. (Saelig) has announced the availability of KLARI-MOD SC 1000V, new dynamic measurement modules specially designed for current and voltage measurements in automotive hybrid or electrical powertrain systems. A unique feature is the 1000V safety isolation between measurement circuitry and data output. KLARI-MOD SC 1000V enables fast measurements of up to 8,000 samples per second, previously unavailable in a logging module with these specifications.
For safe and proper automotive hybrid vehicle integration, OEM’s and suppliers must be able to reliably and repeatably measure energy flow of system and individual currents and voltages over the full measurement range, without temperature drift. KLARI-MOD SC 1000V modules are especially designed to assist in the collection of dynamic voltage and current measurements, offering 16-bit resolution, extremely wide dynamic range, and isolation of 1000V between measurement circuitry and data output, gathering data at up to 8,000 samples per second, the fastest technology available for this market. Modules can be easily adapted to meet changing measurement requirements via the use of different shunts or voltage probes for low, medium and high current applications, with data output available via CANbus or RS232 serial interface. Measurement connection points can be customer-specific, or simply via fuse replacement.
An automotive hybrid measurement system must work transparently without affecting vehicle performance, and independently of sensors installed on the production vehicle. It must also meet emerging automotive legislative and OEM safety requirements, such as SAE J1711 Emission and Fuel Economy Testing, J1772 Conductive Charging, J2464 Battery Pack and Capacitor Pack Safety and J2894 Charging Power Quality. These standards are only just beginning to be defined within the global automotive hybrid market. Overall safety of both sensor and measurement modules is absolutely essential to such hybrid vehicle testing applications, ensuring that both possess sufficiently high insulation for safe measurements on the high-voltage side (per EN 60664).
Manufactured in Europe by Stefan Klaric GmbH & Co. AG and widely used by European automobile manufacturers, KLARI-MOD SC 1000V is now available in North America from Saelig, with units starting at $2000. For detailed specifications, technical assistance, or additional information, contact (toll-free in the US) 1-888-7SAELIG, via email: info@saelig.com, or visit www.saelig.com.
About Saelig Company, Inc.: Founded in 1988 in Rochester, New York, Saelig is a North American distributor with a growing reputation for finding and sourcing unique, easy-to-use control and instrumentation products and related active components, for use in a variety of industries, including: automation, automotive, aerospace & defense, computers, controls, embedded systems, medical & pharmaceutical manufacturing, motion control, R&D, wireless, etc. Products lines are continuously added from sources across the globe, and are offered at highly competitive prices, accompanied by full in-house technical support, exceptional customer service, and fast delivery. For full details of available product lines, please visit www.saelig.com.
Quickly turn your fork lift into a “portable crane”. Caldwell’s new Precision Lifting Boom combines the reach of a fork lift boom with the precise lifting of a hoist, adding value and functionality to your lift truck. The Precision Lifting Boom fits standard fork lift trucks and is an economical alternative to an overhead or gantry crane.The self contained power supply allows you to use the boom with no special power requirements. Available in fixed, telescopic, and pivoting telescopic models with hook block capacities of 2,000 or 2,400 pounds.
For more information on Caldwell’s new Precision Lifting Boom, contact our inside sales department at 800-628-4263, fax your request to 815-229-5686, or visit us on the web at www.caldwellinc.com.
Trombetta’s Diesel Pre-Heat Module Ensures
Safe, Efficient Engine Start in Cold Weather
Providing designers of diesel engine controls with an environmentally robust and economical device that assists in controlling engine temperature and improves starting, Trombetta has developed a temperature-dependent “pre-heat” module designed to provide optimum control of diesel engine “glow plugs and air intake” heating elements. Designated the S500-B100 Series, the Diesel Pre-Heat Module features an ISO standard footprint and is sealed to IP 66/67 standards to protect against harsh environmental conditions such as moisture, vibration, and extreme temperatures.
When the ignition switch is turned to the run position, the S500-B100-02 module powers the glow plugs and/or air intake heating elements. This keeps them energized for a predetermined time based on the ambient temperature.
At the same time, the module can activate a dashboard “wait” indicator light, which remains ‘on’ until the glow plug or air intake heater reaches the required temperature then turns ‘off’, signaling the operator to turn the key to start the engine. “Trombetta’s Diesel Pre-Heat Module improves the reliability of starting a diesel engine.” said Charles Trayner, National Sales Manager at Trombetta. “Our S500-B100-02 modules are ideal for single-switch ignition systems, such as three and four cylinder diesel engines that require temperature compensation and an accurate wait time indication for the operator.
Diesel Pre-Heat Module Ensures Safe and Efficient Engine Start
The S500-B100-02 module is rated for a 40A resistive load, and a voltage range from 6VDC to 18VDC. In addition, the Diesel Pre-Heat Module provides transient protection up to 30V to safeguard the module from damaging voltage spikes within the engine compartment. It is also designed to withstand non-clamped load dump incidences.
The modules are configured to activate the engines glow plug or air intake heater elements from 3 - 30 seconds based on the ambient temperatures. In addition, Trombetta can customize the modules to meet specific customer requirements. All Trombetta Diesel Pre-Heat Modules feature industry standard ISO Pin-Out configurations which are IP 66/67 rated in a potted nylon housing.
Typical pricing starts at $8 for volumes greater than 5,000 pieces with a lead time of four weeks.
For more information about the S500-B100 Series Diesel Pre-Heat Modules, contact Trombetta at N88 W13901 Main Street, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051; call 262-251-5454, or visit www.trombetta.com.
About Trombetta-Tympanium: Trombetta - Tympanium is a leading worldwide manufacturer of power switching and power management products. Founded in 1932, Trombetta specializes in DC Contactors, Industrial Work Solenoids, Key Switches, and Electronic Controls. Founded in 1970, Tympanium specializes in Voltage Regulators, Time Delay Switches, and AC Generators. In 2007 Trombetta - Tympanium became one company combining years of collective experience and expertise in the design, development, and manufacture of cost-effective electromechanical and electronic products that are used for application solutions. Trombetta - Tympanum’s products have become the industry standard for Powersports, Lawn and Garden Equipment, Agriculture and Construction, Medium and Heavy Trucks, RV, and Marine applications.
Sky-Trax Partners with LogTrek
Sky-Trax Inc. is proud to announce its newest Premier Partner Program member and Value Added Reseller (VAR), LogTrek, a division of Dr. Schniz GmbH.
The partnership between Sky-Trax, a technology company specializing in optical technology for precision tracking of vehicles and assets inside warehouses, and LogTrek, a service provider that links process management and simulation techniques, will bring revolutionary warehousing solutions to the areas of materials handling in Munich, Germany and throughout Europe. As strategic partners, Sky-Trax and LogTrek look forward to sharing new and exciting opportunities for process analysis and improvement.
“The knowledge in process analysis and improvement that LogTrek offers, coupled with Sky-Trax systems, will change the way companies manage warehouse operations,” said Larry Mahan, President and COO of Sky-Trax. “Sky-Trax is always looking for ways to improve its products and services thru partnerships with companies whose offerings complement Sky-Trax; LogTrek is one of these partners”.
Dr. Karl Schniz, Managing Director of Dr. Schniz GmbH, looks forward to expanding the consulting firm’s breadth of knowledge, keeping Dr. Schniz in the front of their industry by being an early adopter of Sky-Trax’s revolutionary technology. “With our new LogTrek division we will combine the unique technology developed by Sky-Trax with our expertise in process optimization.”
The Sky-Trax VAR Premier Partner Program provides companies with a competitive advantage, allowing them to grow, expand, and differentiate their product lines with Sky-Trax solutions. This distinction positions system resellers, like LogTrek, as industry leaders with optical technology. The Premier Partner program also presents Sky-Trax and its partners with global distribution channels, stronger reseller relationships, and increased availability of products that are growing in demand.
About Sky-Trax Inc.: Sky-Trax is the inventor and commercial provider of Optical Real-Time Location Systems for tracking goods, vehicles and guiding autonomous vehicles in any size facility. Sky-Trax revolutionary inch-accurate location tracking and automatic data collection systems are designed for indoor industrial vehicles; primarily in warehouses. Applications employing Sky-Trax Optical RTLS are economical and practical to deploy, allowing warehouse professionals to substantially increase safety and improve warehouse efficiency. The results are fewer safety incidents, much lower operating costs, improved inventory accuracy, and greater throughput. For more information, please visit www.Sky-Trax.com.
About Dr. Schniz GmbH / LogTrek: Dr. Schniz GmbH was founded in 1998 and has since then developed a unique profile combining process analysis and optimization with dynamic simulation techniques. The consulting team of Dr. Schniz is focused on optimizing the whole value chain, usually including the optimization of supply chain processes and warehouse activities. The customer base includes leading companies from automotive and pharmaceutical industry.
The new LogTrek division is focused on solutions and services bases on Sky-Trax technology. From the current office in Munich and the New Berlin based office LogTrek covers both the German and neighboring European markets.
New Univac® Economy Vacuum Upender
The new Univac® Economy Vacuum Upender is a faster and easier way to lift and manipulate sheet, plate, or glass. Upender’s are fully adjustable to handle varying lengths/widths of materials.
The standard power tilt will increase your overall productivity. Non-marking neoprene vacuum pads protect the load from damage while the linear actuator provides smooth continuous tilting.
Standard features include vacuum reservoir, indicator gauges and isolation valves; push button tilt control, adjustable handle and pads. Models are available with 2 or 4 crossarms (4-8 pads) and capacities from 100 to 2000 pounds.
For more information on Caldwell’s Vacuum Lifters or to fill out an application evaluation, contact our inside sales department at 800-628-4260, fax your request to 815-229-5686, or visit us on the web at www.caldwellinc.com.
Please feel free to forward this message to friends or colleagues in the industry!
For advertising information, to be removed from this distribution list, or to change the status of any contact information, please contact Peter Armour, President & Publisher, by emailing or calling 518.329.0067.
