Raeon has used its patented FloLock technology to create marine batteries that can be made to fit any space on board, reducing cost and improving lead-in times
Cylindrical battery cells wired in both series and parallel are still the most popular way of making large battery banks, but standard manufacturing processes can restrict the shapes available. Raeon has developed a way to build batteries to custom shapes by using a ‘reactive, fluid-assembly’ approach. We saw some examples at Seawork.
Part of the solution is to tap into the variables available, and then build the battery around the best combination. This means the cooling can either be active or passive, the voltages can be anywhere from 12V to 360V, and from 5Ah to 750Ah. The chemistry can also be selected, including NMC (nickel manganese cadmium) LFP (lithium iron phosphate) and sodium, with cells either 18650, 21700 or 46XX format.
Raeon serves several markets with this configurable package, including defence, aerospace and niche auto, with marine also a speciality. In the literature for its shortlisting for an innovation award, the technology is described as ‘dramatically reducing the cost of accessing application-optimised batteries.’
The narrative continues “Raeon’s patent-pending technology builds custom battery modules using its FloLock resin system. This resin effectively constrains battery cells instead of using traditional injection moulded plastic carriers. The method drastically reduces the development costs and lead time of custom batteries by a factor of 10. Custom batteries are now accessible for low-to-medium volume manufacturers, offering unparalleled design flexibility. Raeon’s innovative assembly method means they have a standardised process, utilising a single production line, which can be customised according to shape, voltage and chemistry. Delivery from concept to realisation can be as little as 12 weeks.”
The sample on display has been developed to power an unmanned submersible vehicle, but the cell configuration and outer casing can be matched to any type of electric propulsion project afloat.