Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries play a crucial role in various deep-sea applications, including autonomous vehicles and offshore oil and gas operations, where they power sensors and serve as energy storage systems. High power and energy density are vital,but so is unwavering reliability and safety,as any failure can lead to significant costs.
In this piece, Stefan Marx, the CEO of SubCtech GmbH, discusses their latest innovation in underwater power solutions. Based in Kiel, Germany, SubCtech GmbH specializes in marine technology, research, and offshore solutions.
SubCtech has introduced a cutting-edge battery solution tailored for underwater environments. The PowerPack™ 416,proudly manufactured in Germany,offers enhanced performance to meet the growing demands of underwater applications while ensuring top-notch safety and reliability: an increase in voltage,power,and energy capacity.
The PowerPack™ 416 marks the launch of a new product line. This highly efficient Li-ion battery includes multiple controllable power output channels (PDU: Power Switch & Distribution Unit), allowing continued operation even in the event of an external failure by isolating the outputs. Individual control of outputs, such as thrusters or pumps, is also possible.
With voltage options ranging from 14 volts to 600 volts, the Series 416 battery delivers 7 kWh per SmartPowerBlock™ module, scalable to approximately 100 kWh per battery canister. Depending on the configuration,these 150 mm wide blocks can be connected in series for higher voltage applications. Each block weighs 32 kg and has a diameter of 416 mm.
By connecting these deep-sea batteries in parallel, cost-effective scalable redundant solutions can be achieved, even for high current outputs. Up to 12 modules can be interconnected to provide a total energy capacity of 1 MWh. Additionally, suitable housings for depths of up to 6,000 meters are available.
the optional embedded Charger 416 can be integrated into the current product version, facilitating underwater charging through docking stations or ROVs, which significantly lowers operational costs.
This battery system adheres to MIL-STD and API17F standards, with optional UN T38.8 certifications available.
The SubCtech powerpack™ 416 is perfectly suited for ROVs, AUVs, subsea offshore oil and gas operations, and energy storage systems (ESS). Both large AUVs (underwater drones) and manned vehicles have successfully utilized the initial systems. Smaller variants, with diameters of 260 mm or 310 mm, have been in active customer use for several years.
Permits for air freight,export,and import,along with special authorizations,have been secured from the Federal Aviation Office LBA,US D.O.T., IATA, and other regulatory bodies. Our certified experts ensure safe storage and transport by road, sea, and air, and our after-sales team is always available for larger project implementations.
Join SubCtech at AUVSI XPONENTIAL 2021 to discover more about our latest technologies. Register for XPO21 and visit our virtual booth.
About SubCtech GmbH
Founded in the 1980s, we maintain strong international ties with research institutions and industrial partners. Our innovative products and system solutions in marine technology are developed in Germany. Our extensive experience with research vessels and racing yachts, which operate under extreme conditions, as well as our work in deep-sea environments up to 6,000 meters, significantly informs our product development.
