A couple weeks ago, we wrote about ABB’s new ultrafast flash-charging bus. At the time, I noted some reader speculation about some of the details: “I’m betting a hybrid ultracapacitor and battery pack….”
I sent the following questions over to an ABB rep as a result: ” Can you say if this is using a hybrid capacitor + battery pack? And could you (or the CTO) provide a bit more information on the technical details of the system that allow for the superfast charge?”
Due to my being out of service for a week, I couldn’t relay the answer to you all for awhile. But now that I’m going strong again, here it is:
In the Flash Feeding Station we have supercaps, no battery. Charging of supercaps at 50kVA (400VAC) grid side. Discharging (bus charging) at 400kW (500VDC) bus side.
By means of using supercaps, we avoid using a MV grid connection. Instead, we just need the main LV (3phase 400V AC). The benefits are: reduction of the connection fee to the grid; reduction of energy cost by providing peak shaving (SmartGrid aspect); eases deployment in city center (so easy to find the main).
Satisfied? More questions? 😀
Want more ABB news? Check out:
- ABB To Set Up $130 Million HVDC Link In Finland To Facilitate Renewable Energy Transmission
- Big Boost For Renewable Energy In Store: ABB Develops “Game Changing” Hybrid HVDC Breaker
- Offshore Wind Power: ABB Wins $1 Billion North Sea Contract
- ABB Wins $225 Million Order For Two South African PV Plants
- GM And ABB Demonstrate Microgrid Backup With Old Volt Batteries
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