31 minute read
Batteries & Charging: Power up with batteries and chargers
CHALLENGES OF CAR BATTERY TESTING
AutoTest says the key problem lies in the difficulty of testing batteries, and this applies to repair shops, retail outlets, and service garages
There is a significant shortfall in a reliable method of estimating the state-of-charge, which is based mostly on voltage and charge counting, says AutoTest. Assessing capacity is the leading health indicator of a battery. Measuring the open circuit voltage and checking the internal resistance do not provide conclusive evidence of battery state-of-health, it explains. A dead battery is easy to check, and most testers are 100 percent accurate. The challenge comes in evaluating a battery in the 80–100 percent performance range while in use. AutoTest says most service and repair workshops struggle to introduce good battery test procedures. It states that when testing a battery and trying to determine the state of health, the following must be considered: • Capacity – the ability to store energy. • Internal resistance – the ability to deliver current. • Self-discharge – cell integrity and health. The top indicator of a battery’s health is capacity (energy storage). A new battery should deliver 100 percent of the rated capacity. This means a 10Ah pack should deliver Ten amps for one hour. If the battery fails to perform after 20 minutes, then the capacity is only 33 percent – AutoTest states, capacity defines end of battery life. Lead acid starts at about 85 percent and increases in capacity through use before the long and gradual decrease begins. Lithium-ion starts at peak and begins its decline immediately, but at a very slow pace. Knowing when to replace a battery is difficult – battery problems only become apparent with increased breakdowns, which may be caused by a lack of battery maintenance. AutoTest explains that battery replacement depends on the application. Using battery Analysers typically set the replacement threshold at 80 percent capacity but in some applications, you can keep the battery longer than others and cost decisions need to be made in different situations. More than 40 percent of all roadside car failures are battery-related, and 30 percent involve either a discharged or defective battery. Additionally, only a few starter batteries reach the average age of five years. The average car is driven 13 kilometres per day and mostly in cities. The most common reason for battery failure is undercharge or sulfation. Battery failure in the warranty period is uncommon, and driving habits are the main culprits. AutoTest says its Battery System Tester uses the adjustable load test to decide whether your battery is still usable or needs to be replaced. These testers measure the voltage drop when a voltage load that is half the battery’s CCA rating is used. The load is applied for about 15 seconds and the voltage drop is measured. If the drop reading does not fall below 9.6 volts, then your battery is ideally conditioned, and is therefore, considered good. This accurate method of testing is exactly how the AutoTest Battery System Tester evaluates a battery. AutoTest says it not only gives a complete view of battery health, but is a conveniently portable, easy to use battery analysis tool designed for automotive service, fleet maintenance and breakdown assist diagnostic use – taking the guess work out of battery diagnosis and alerting you to replace batteries before they fail. AutoTest says the Battery System Tester is a professional quality unit that tests all 12V auto batteries, including new auxiliary batteries for hybrids. It reportedly uses advanced conductance testing technology to easily, quickly and accurately measure the actual cold cranking amps capability of the vehicle starting battery, the health of the battery itself, and common faults in the vehicle starting system and charging system. AutoTest says it can help maintenance personnel to identify problems quickly and accurately, thus leading to efficient vehicle repair. For more information, visit www.autotest.net.au
CHARGE UP
A modern 4WD’s alternator is not designed to fully charge auxiliary batteries. An insufficient charge can cause sulphation, resulting in shorter battery life and impaired performance of the vehicle’s battery. CoolDrive Auto Parts says the answer to this is the Hulk Professional Series DC-DC Battery Chargers, which it states are “some of the most powerful and reliable units on the market.” Available in either 25 or 40 Amp with a 12V output, CoolDrive Auto Parts says they are engineered to operate in the toughest conditions Australia provides, whether mounted under the bonnet or elsewhere. The units can charge auxiliary batteries to their optimum levels whilst driving, and can accommodate optional solar power. Fully automatic with a unique seven-stage charging algorithm, the Hulk Professional Series DC-DC battery chargers reportedly ensure that the batteries are charged to 100 percent, irrespective of size or type. With reverse polarity protection and a built-in battery isolator, the Hulk DC-DC Battery Chargers are also sealed against dust and water ingress and are safe to operate in temperatures from -20°C to 85°C. Remote LCD displays, terminal blocks, mounting brackets, and more are available in the Hulk 4X4 range available through CoolDrive Auto Parts. For more information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au or www.hulk4x4.com.au
OZCHARGE LITHIUM PRO SERIES
From Zylux
Zylux has been developing world-leading battery chargers and automotive accessories for over 20 years and it was in 2001 that it began the development of automotive battery chargers and maintainers. After four years of development and testing the OzCharge battery charger and maintainer was released – an easy-to-use solution to combat rapidly deteriorating batteries and allow the consumer to avoid needing to purchase an expensive new battery or risk damaging their current battery by charging it incorrectly. Next came the OzCharge Lithium Pro Series – Zylux’s most advanced charger yet and completely re-designed to charge and maintain batteries with improved performance, efficiency, and safety. The PRO-L range of battery chargers have the versatility to work with any 12V vehicle battery, including lithium (LiFePO4), making them the ideal solution for both the professional and hobbyist. All OzCharge battery chargers tailor the charging profile specifically for the individual battery to ensure a safe, and fast charge is delivered and now have a dedicated lithium (LifePO4) charging profile catering for all types of 12V LifePO4 batteries. Key features and benefits:
• Multi-Chemistry: charge, maintain and repair
AGM, Calcium SMF, EFB, GEL, WET and
Lithium (LifePO4) batteries. • Multi-Output: customise the rate at which you deliver charge to your battery. • Repair, rejuvenate and revive dead batteries. • Automatic diagnosis: the charger will automatically diagnose the battery upon connection and repair if required. • Automatic battery rejuvenation: break down battery sulphation and bring dead batteries back to life. • Over-temperature protection • Reverse polarity protection • Short circuit protection • Over-charge protection • Redesigned micro-clamps which are sleeker, sturdier and more versatile • Integrated ring terminals: connect your way
with two options in one harness. Ring terminal for more permanent charging solutions or crocodile clips for quick access. • Super-wide access: connect with ease to any battery terminal with the new ultra-versatile clamp design. • Textured casing: the textured casing provides greater grip when accessing hard to reach battery Terminals. For the full range of OzCharge products including chargers, jump starters, batteries and accessories, please visit www.ozcharge.com.au
REPCO AGM STOP-START BATTERIES
Repco can help you save fuel and reduce emissions
Vehicles with stop-start engines are becoming increasingly more common on our roads, and with the advancement of this technology, you and your customers need to rely on the battery in these vehicles, time and time again. With Repco’s range of AGM Stop-Start batteries, made by Century, Repco says you can rely on your battery. Offering outstanding value, coupled with superior and reliable starting power, your new AGM StopStart battery from Repco will provide long term reliability and confidence every time you start your car, at every start at a traffic light and for all the driving in between, says Repco. The batteries have been designed to deliver superior cycling performance, rapid recharging between repeated engine starts, and the extra power required to run your vehicle’s on-board electrics whilst the engine is stopped. Repco states its batteries represent the latest in performance for vehicles with AGM Stop/Start and Micro Hybrid technology. Across the latest six-part number range, 54 makes and 391 models of cars are covered, so Repco says it is bound to have the stop/start battery that you need. Repco’s AGM Stop/Start batteries also come with a 36-month warranty. Repco explains that it works alongside Century to help the environment, and make it easy for you to do your part too. By recycling your battery at Repco, you too can make a positive change to the environment – it explains that 98 percent of a battery can be recycled with the plastic, lead and acid components all able to be reprocessed and manufactured into products like cabling, detergents and more. Through its recycling program, Repco has recycled more than 31,000 batteries in 2021 and in 2022 and states that it wants to continue to increase this number. You can recycle batteries by dropping them down to your local Repco store during opening hours. Battery recycling through Repco is free and can be done at all stores. Repco explains there are plenty of benefits to recycling batteries including: protecting wildlife from harmful chemicals, reducing landfill, conserving natural resources, and helping to build a cleaner Australia for future generations. For more information, visit www.repco.com.au
REDARC GROWS GOBLOCK CAPABILITIES
New accessories have been launched
REDARC says it is pleased to introduce the newest additions to the GoBlock accessory and wiring range. New to the range is REDARC’s PowerDock to Terminal Block Wiring Kit and its GoBlock Inverter Accessory Cable. The PowerDock to Terminal Block Wiring Kit provides the parts necessary to connect the dock terminal to a terminal block behind the PowerDock installation. This kit makes wiring from the vehicle and solar simple, as only an allen key is required to complete the installation. REDARC says this kit is perfect for those replacing an existing battery installation with a GoBlock, or for customers who prefer to supply their own wiring. The GoBlock Inverter Accessory Cable is designed to allow the connection of a 350W REDARC inverter to your GoBlock. Featuring lug terminals to connect to the inverter and an Anderson plug on the opposite end, this allows users to have a portable, plug and play 240V power solution. “It’s never been easier to go off grid on our own terms with REDARC’s newest additions to the award winning GoBlock range,” REDARC General Manager of Aftermarket Sales ANZ, Ben Marsh, said of the new accessories. “The Inverter Accessory Cable and Terminal Block Wiring Kit add further flexibility to the GoBlock and the newly released PowerDock.” Both accessories are designed to be used with REDARC’s latest innovation in portable power, the GoBlock, and the accompanying PowerDock docking system. Featuring REDARC’s proprietary DC charging technology and paired with lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) battery cells, REDARC says its GoBlock provides up to four times more charge cycles than other portable power solutions available on the market. Further, REDARC states that its PowerDock not only provides a secure way to transport the GoBlock in a vehicle, but it also allows for rapid charge from both the vehicle and solar. PowerDock has been tested to suit relevant crash and vibration standards and features a patented design, providing both restraint and connection with a single-action mechanism, as well as a neat anti-theft feature. The winner of a Good Design Award in 2021, REDRAC says the GoBlock is the culmination of customer feedback and extensive market research relating to the limitations of some existing 4WD dual battery systems. Designed, engineered, built and tested from the ground up in Australia, it has been purpose built to thrive in Australia’s harshest conditions. Available in both 50 or 100ah models, REDARC’s GoBlock, PowerDock and accessories all come with nation-wide support, including a two-year “hassle free” warranty and after-sales service. REDARC invites you to make the most out of the system which has been built for the most rugged and remote adventure and create a true all-in-one solution with PowerDock and GoBlock accessories. For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au/powerdock
ACDELCO AUTOMOTIVE BATTERIES
The brand says you can depend on its products
ACDelco says it has built a worldwide reputation as a premium source of experience, dependability, technology and performance. The brand is well recognised as a leader in the automotive aftermarket and says its backing by General Motors further reinforces its range of quality products. Among its range of batteries, ACDelco Automotive and Commercial ranges consist of batteries of various sizes to suit a wide spectrum of applications. The ACDelco range of automotive batteries consists of Premium (SMF), Enhanced Flooded Battery (EFB) and Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) products. The Premium automotive range carries sizes to suit all makes and models of vehicles. Featuring leadcalcium alloy grid, full-frame technology plates and calcium/calcium chemistry, ACDelco says these batteries are built to meet or exceed original equipment specifications from manufacturers around the world. ACDelco EFB and AGM batteries are specifically designed for modern vehicles with advanced systems such as Stop/Start which puts extra demands on batteries compared to their conventional counterparts. These batteries are built to perform in extreme conditions and challenging situations. ACDelco EFB batteries are constructed with full frame positive and negative plates, giving them the durability and reliability needed by stop start vehicles. ACDelco says its AGM range represents the very best in advanced battery technology. They are designed with high compression Absorbent Glass Mat separators which significantly increases the cycle life and improves charge acceptance compared to standard flooded lead-acid batteries. These batteries provide high cranking power even when the state of charge is low. ACDelco Commercial batteries are built with the understanding that commercial vehicles are subjected to gruelling environmental conditions and varied terrains on a regular basis. The batteries in the range provide both high cranking power and the reserve capacity needed for continual demand applications. Suitable for a wide range of commercial applications, the combination of commercial grade plates made from lead calcium alloy and liquid gas separator lids deliver a maintenance-free experience for commercial fleet and business operators across Australia. The commercial range batteries consist of tough PE separators and lock-bonded plate groups for the highest durability and service life. All ACDelco batteries are laboratory-tested, field-proven and have undergone numerous quality control checks prior to being available in the market. The strong warranty coverage on all ACDelco batteries is another testament to its quality and performance capabilities. ACDelco Batteries are available from R&J Batteries branches and stockists in Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, the Northern Territory and New South Wales. For more information, contact your local R&J Batteries branch or stockist, call 1300 769 282 or visit www.rjbatt.com.au
TAG PORTABLE JUMP STARTERS
Get back on the road quickly with a TAG Portable Jump Starter
On top of its range of high-quality towbars, TAG also offers a wide variety of towing accessories. The newest addition is the JS02 Portable Jump Starter, a handy compact tool that will offer peace of mind to a lot of drivers that get off the beaten track. TAG Portable Jump Starters have a variety of functions and can be a lifesaver when stuck in a remote location. Of course, the main function is as a jump starter, and it has you covered whether you need to jump start your jet ski, tractor, or daily commuter. The JS02 is able to jump start a vehicle up to 30 times in one charge with the 16000mAh (1000 Peak Amps) 12v battery, while the JS01 is a great option for smaller passenger vehicles with a smaller 12000mAh 12V battery. The TAG Portable Jump Starters also serve as a backup battery charger for your mobile devices. You can charge your smartphone, tablet, laptop, and most other mobile devices using any one of the various charging options including USB (5V/9V Output), 16V DC Output and USB-C Quickcharge Input. Both the JS02 and JS01 devices offer Wireless Qi Charging, making them a great compact tool that can be used every day while on the go. Each Jump Starter has an energy efficient ultra-bright LED Flex-Light, a great feature that becomes invaluable for those night-time roadside emergencies. TAG says another great attribute of TAG Portable Jump Starters is their size. Both units are light and easy to carry with one hand, and once put away the slimline carry case is smaller than most first aid kits and easy to hide under your seat for when you need it. TAG says its Portable Jump Starters – available now – offer peace of mind and will get your vehicle back up and running no matter what the vehicle. For more information, visit www.tagtowbars.com.au
REDARC ANNOUNCES BCDC FIRMWARE UPGRADE
The upgrades deliver a number of enhancements
REDARC is excited to announce an update to the firmware of its BCDC in-vehicle dual battery chargers, its flagship range of DC to DC automotive and off-road battery chargers. “The improved firmware offers additional features that have become relevant with changing needs of our customers,” REDARC Product Manager, Dylan Pinkard, said. “There is no change to the form factor, and they will continue to connect and integrate with the range of BCDC accessories.” The additional features include: • Enhancements to the charging conditions for
Smart alternator systems, especially with Idle-
Stop vehicles. This includes new Turn On, Turn
Off voltage thresholds coupled with a better explanation of these voltages and new Blue wire connection points, as described in the
Installation Manual. • An increase in the Boost charging time limits on the Lithium charge profile from two hours to three hour and 40 minutes before activating a timeout. The charging in boost will resume at four hours if the lithium auxiliary battery still needs boost charging, meaning only a
20-minute rest period, every four-hours, maximising charge time. • Charging profiles for smaller capacity batteries (recharged in less than two hours) and other types of batteries (acid, gel, etc) will retain their existing settings of two hours before activating a timeout to maximise customer safety and battery life. REDARC will transition to the new version of the BCDC across the next six months, with the update only applying to REDARC’s dual-input dual battery chargers (part numbers BCDC1225D, BCDC1240D and BCDC1250D.) Customers with existing BCDC products seeking the firmware upgrade can contact REDARC via power@redarc.com.au to have their unit’s firmware updated for a fee. The existing BCDC will need to be returned to REDARC to facilitate the upgrade. For stockists, REDARC says the firmware upgrade has been designed to be as seamless as possible. Part Numbers and pricing of the BCDC range remain the same and a subtle silver sticker on the retail packaging will confirm which units contain the new firmware to assist with inventory management and product recommendations. REDARC says BCDCs featuring previous firmware versions continue to lead the market and the firmware upgrade only improves the new units so far as the above enhancements. For the past 40 years, REDARC says it has pioneered DC-DC charging systems that can perform in extreme conditions on vehicles in offroad and long-haul situations, serving five primary markets including automotive, outdoor recreation, defence, mining and industrial. For more information, please visit www.redarc.com.au
OMEGA PRO FULLY AUTOMATIC BATTERY CHARGER
Available from Shinn Fu Australia
The Omega Pro Fully Automatic Automotive Battery Charger is made for professional workshops who need a versatile 12 Volt car battery charger. With its variable charging rate, you don’t need to buy multiple chargers for differing battery capacities. It is suitable for Automotive, Calcium, Marine, Deep Cycle, AGM, GEL and LiFePO4 Batteries. The Omega Pro Fully Automatic Automotive Battery Charger provides extra value with built-in alternator check, battery tester and maintenance; to help promote a longer-lasting battery lifespan. Alongside several safety features including overcharge and overheat protection, the charger boasts spark-free terminal clamps and short-circuit protection; meeting the AS/NZS 3350.2.29:2001 safety standards. With a Intec Power XT3 microprocessor, the charger delivers pulsating charging current throughout eight charging stages: 1. Analysis – checks the battery’s condition. 2. Soft Start – to prevent damaging the plates from sudden change in voltage. 3. Bulk Charge – the charging rate is at full power of the set Amps. 4. Absorption – to slowly top up the battery and fully saturate it. 5. Equalisation – a controlled overcharge to remove sulfate crystals. 6. Dynamic Analysis – performs test to determine the battery’s health. 7. Reflash – helps improve battery condition if the previous stage detects poor health. 8. Auto Maintenance – dispenses a float charge to keep batteries in fully saturated charge and optimum condition. Key features:
• Eight stages of charging, with auto wake-up to keep batteries fully charged and in optimum condition. • Pulse charging to help desulfate built-up Leadsulfate deposits on plates, ensuring consistent and reliable battery performance. • Has a battery maintenance charging mode, to promote longer battery lifespan. • LiFePO4 compatible, provided the batteries are 12V with a minimum capacity of 15Ah. • Comes with several safety features, including spark-free terminal clamps, overcharge and overheat protection. • Designed with an integrated carrying handle, with cable and clamp storage. For more information, visit www.shinnfu.com.au
LV ALTERNATOR SENSING IGNITION RELAY 12/24V
Available from JAS Oceania
JAS Oceania Technical, Training and Quality Control Manager, Paul Keenan, explains that the LV Alternator Sensing Ignition Relay 12/24V product ((LV4505) is a game-changer – providing an ignition source anywhere quickly, easily and safely, while being “practically Plug’n’Play.” Paul says the LV Alternator Sensing Ignition Relay from the Australian Auto Electrical Specialist has a compact design, with the same footprint as a five-pin mini relay and is ECU safe. Plus, it says it removes the headache of dealing with a CANBUS system for an ignition source. The product is said to be unique in that it differs from VRS (Voltage Sensing Relays) as its input trigger is sourced by the frequency of the alternator, sensing the ripple produced as the alternator charges. This feature overcomes the issue of modern vehicles that have smart alternators, whose charge voltage drops below 12.8 (cut-out voltage of VSR) when the battery is fully charged. These modules can be mounted in a caravan to operate a DC-DC without the need to run ignition wiring through to the towing vehicle, sensing the frequency as far away as 50 metres. It also has the added flexibility, if so required, to connect in the same way to operate as a VSR. For example, wiring to a generated circuit that doesn’t produce a ripple. Key features and benefits:
• Multi-modal: this single unit has several modes of operation; it can be frequency operated, voltage sensing and manually turned on or off remotely. • Flexible uses: the unit can be used as a controlling device to switch large amperage relays, giving the customer complete flexibility in how they use the product. • Varied applications: it will supply a ready solution for daytime running lights, DC to DC converters and beacons and comes with a three-year warranty. • Simple and easy installation: it can be installed with as little as three wires and is a sturdy, solid-
state construction with no moving parts. It also offers zero risk to CAN or ECU lines. • Reduces risk: there is no need to locate an ignition source for accessories under dashes or in engine bays. It eliminates warranty issues with vehicle manufacturers. • Save time and money: easy installation saves time in labour costs running long cables to activate accessories in the rear of vehicles or trailers. Paul said, “the aim of the LV Automotive brand is to be a trusted leader in the Australian market for quality and reliability, offering the latest technology and durable components. This latest product reinforces the value and quality of our own-branded product.” For more information, visit www.jasoceania.com.au
Four new models are available
Projecta has released an all-new range of Australian designed and engineered Modified Sine Wave Inverters, that provides several benefits over outgoing models, while maintaining the affordable pricing of the predecessors. Available in four models (300W to 2000W) with six variants including two 24V options, a key characteristic of the range is 200 percent startup power for half a second – meaning a 2000W inverter can briefly output a peak power of 4000W. Projecta says this provides the necessary ‘kick’ to power up common household appliances that require more power to start up than they do to run – something inferior inverters with similar (continuous) power output can struggle to do. Other range-wide features include a 5V DC 2.1A USB socket offering convenient power and charging for small devices such as phones, tablets, cameras, power banks and toys. There is also noise-free EMC filtering which combines with large capacitors to deliver smooth power delivery and reduced sound and screen interference in sensitive appliances. The new Projecta Modified Sine Wave Inverter models are ideal for a range of recreational and trade applications. Starting the range is the IMW300 which is capable of supplying power for charging and powering equipment including phones and tablets, digital cameras, radios, portable gaming consoles and fans. The larger IMW600 can also power a desktop and laptop computer, some power tools and site lighting. Next-up in the range are the IMW1000 and IMW1000-24, which have additional capacity to handle a microwave, small fridge, iron and coffee machine. The range-toppers are the IMW2000 and IMW2000-24 variant, which further up the ante, providing enough output to satisfy more powerhungry versions of the equipment described earlier, along with hairdryers and toasters. With low battery voltage and overload protection, approved mains sockets designed to Australian standard AS4763 and a full internal bonded earth system, the new inverters are engineered to deliver safe and hassle-free performance, whether for powering the smallest devices right through to high-consuming equipment. And along with the safety and functionality that the latest range delivers, Projecta says the new inverters also introduce a stylish and contemporary design that’s highlighted by smooth, rounded edges, making them more visually appealing for open view installation. The latest Projecta Modified Sine Wave Inverter range is available now from leading automotive, camping and trade outlets Australia-wide. For more information, visit www.projecta.com.au
ENERGY ANYWHERE
Federal Batteries launches Remco Lithium
It is hard to ignore the market’s growing desire for Lithium battery technologies. Increasingly, well known and unknown brands are launching Lithium products to gain market share in this rapidly growing product segment. As Lithium is a relatively new automotive and recreational product category, it can be difficult to navigate the market and locate the products that are both high quality and reliable. Federal Batteries has responded to the market demand for Lithium technologies with the launch of its new Remco Smart Lithium Deep Cycle battery. It says the new battery range boasts all the most attractive benefits of Lithium: lighter weight, longer lifespan, higher power density and faster charging. Federal Batteries says the new Smart Battery Management System (BMS) is an outstanding feature of Remco Lithium batteries. The BMS is built into the battery and is paired with a mobile phone app, so battery owners can monitor and manage their battery’s condition and performance in real-time. Over the past 30 years, Remco has become a reputable aftermarket brand, known for being reliable, superbly built and trusted by leading Australian OEMs and resellers. Remco is supported by the Federal Batteries’ team of product experts who are involved in every aspect of the product development and production process. Each battery is designed to suit Australia’s unique environment. Federal Batteries says Remco has always strived to provide customers with an all-encompassing energy solution. The addition of the new Lithium range has increased Remco’s SKU offering to more than 50, ensuring that customers have access to the right batteries to fit their specific applications. These applications may range from camping and caravanning, 4x4 touring and marine to industrial uses such as UPS systems, solar and mobility. Staying true to the brand’s new tagline ‘Energy Anywhere,’ Federal Batteries says the Remco Lithium range will be available to consumers from Autobarn and Opposite Lock stores Nationwide, whilst the entire Remco battery range is available to the trade via Bapcor’s Trade networks such as Federal Batteries and JAS Oceania. “More than two years of research and development has been invested in the Lithium range to ensure that this new generation of Remco batteries perform to the standards expected by our customers,” Remco Product Manager, Anthony Trigona, said. For more information, visit www.remcoenergy.com.au
A COMPLETE PLUG & PLAY LITHIUM BATTERY SYSTEM
Topo DC Power presents the wireless-ready 144AH Long Range Lithium and Wireless Battery Monitor
Topo’s lithium power systems are a complete allin-one Plug and Play 12V power system. The Topo DC Power wireless-ready 144Ah Long Range Lithium Model (T-LRR-144AH-MO) is the first in its product line to include its world’s first innovative design features and technologies. Three different battery capacities and models are available to choose from to suit user’s needs. Simply packed full of features, Topo DC Power says the plug and play system keeps your 12 Volt power easy, neat, and straightforward. Built-in a tough protective slimline steel casing is a powerful 12Volt/144Amp, Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery. Topo DC Power says it is long-lasting and a vastly more stable battery than other lithium types, providing you with safe and convenient energy storage and transfer. The complete portable 12V System weighs in at 21kg(144AH), making it a much lighter alternative, and its slim design makes it fits behind seats, tucked away easily and nicely. Protection
Topo’s power management system ensures your battery is protected through a number of avenues: • Protected from over and undercharging and over-discharging. • Built-in Audible alarms. • Built-in Automatic High and Low Voltage shutdown. • Built-in Vehicle Charge Sense protects your vehicle starter battery from going flat when connected to vehicle charge. • Outputs protected with Magnetic circuit breakers. • Individually Colour coded, keyed, and clearly labelled Inputs and Output connections for
Vehicle, Solar, Mains charging, and 12V
Output make it truly Plug and Play. Built-in fast charging
Utilise Topo’s built-in 40Amp DC/DC Charger for vehicle fast charging when out on the road where Mains power is non-existent. A dedicated Solar charge input is available for an unregulated solar power source, so you can charge, collect and store solar power from the sun when stationary to be used later in the evening. Topo DC Power says its product and design are the first systems of their kind to allow charge from one or all input charging sources simultaneously. Battery Monitoring and Wireless feature
Wireless-ready to suit Topo’s Plug and Play handsfree wireless monitor, the product features: • Mode indicators for available Charging sources, Mains, Vehicle, Solar. • Mode indicators for Boost, Float, and Alarm. • State of Charge Battery Fuel Gauge. • Net Positive or Negative Amp meter display. For more information, visit www.topodcpower.com.au
CTEK’S CS FREE
A “world first” battery charger and maintainer
CTEK’s CS FREE battery charger and maintainer gives you the power to go, wherever you are. It is the first of its type to offer Adaptive Boost technology, says CTEK, which allows the innovative charger to get a flat battery going quickly and safely, without needing to plug into mains power. The CS FREE features an internal lithium battery that charges the battery through the unit’s fast USB-C input, and when fully charged, the unit will hold its charge for up to a year, allowing it to be stored in a vehicle for whenever it is needed. Unlike traditional boosters or jump starters, the CS FREE analyses the battery using Adaptive Boost technology, which works out the quickest and safest way to power up and protect the battery to get motorists back on the road within 15 minutes, without damaging the battery or the vehicle’s electronics.
“The CS FREE is the first in a new generation of battery chargers that you can simply charge up, and take with you – it’s a complete charging solution you can take anywhere, just throw in the boot of your car and forget about,” CTEK Regional Sales Manager for APAC, Paul Oddy, said. “There’s no need to be tied to a power outlet, so when you’re out on the road, or simply don’t have access to mains power at your home, it’s a really convenient tool to have.” In addition to its portable capabilities, when plugged into mains power the new CS FREE acts as a maintenance charger, allowing it to be a complete four in one product that is capable of maintaining the long-term health of your battery. For the modern workshop, CTEK says this useful tool is perfect for use for day-to-day maintenance charging, while also having the benefit of portability for battery related issues when testing out on the road. The CS FREE comes with a two-year warranty. For more information, visit www.ctek.com.au
GROWING OPTIONS
Including a new aftermarket alternative
Independent workshops are progressively seeing more hybrid and electric vehicles arriving for service and repair. The heart of these vehicles is battery technology and it’s moving fast. Thankfully so are the aftermarket solutions available to keep these vehicles on the road and your customers happy. In February 2020, the Injectronics’ hybrid battery remanufacturing exchange program was announced, delivering Australia’s first scalable component re-use and resource recovery program of retired battery packs from hybridelectric vehicles. Part of IM Group, Injectronics says it is Australasia’s leading supplier of quality new and remanufactured automotive electronic components, as well as the preferred repairer of electronic and mechatronic parts. In September 2021 hybrid.injectronics.com.au launched, and sales of newly re-manufactured Prius and Camry 40/50 series batteries began. Fast forward to June 2022 and the solutions from Injectronics have progressed significantly with re-manufactured batteries and a new option of a aftermarket hybrid battery. The range now covers 11 models commonly found on Australian roads. Propulsion, or drive batteries work best when operating in a stable environment. If the cells become too hot or too cold, their life span is reduced significantly. OE manufacturers carry out heat management of their battery packs in different ways with the option of forced air-cooling using ECM controlled fans the most popular. One of the problems encountered by OE manufacturers of traditional prismatic cells (commonly found across the Toyota Hybrid range of vehicles), is the ability to keep them cool while performing charge and discharge cycles. This is due to the lack of airflow around the closely assembled cell packs. New Aftermarket
The engineers at Injectronics use cylindrical cells in their new aftermarket hybrid batteries. These cells carry the same capacity as their predecessors but due to their shape and size, allow even airflow and therefore heat transfer away from the pack. If you have tried to purchase an OE battery in our global economic state, you will no doubt be aware that these are in very short supply. Injectronics - a local Australian business, have genuine alternative battery solutions for your customer’s vehicle. Remanufactured
Injectronics says that as Australia’s first largescale hybrid remanufacturing program, it can provide a cost-effective and sustainable solution. Giving hybrid batteries a second life, NiMH batteries can be remanufactured to provide exceptional battery performance and efficiency. All Injectronics hybrid batteries whether remanufactured or new aftermarket are said to be true “Plug and Play” components. This simply means the pack comes fully assembled – no extra purchases, no extra time, no confusion, and no hassle – it is Plug ‘n’ Play. Injectronics says it has a high standard when it comes to environmental sustainability and states this is evident right down at the packaging and shipping level where each battery pack is delivered in a purpose-built case which is used to return the core for remanufacturing. Injectronics says the Circular Economy is at the heart of its program, whereby waste is minimised or eliminated from landfill and handled in the safest possible way. Injectronics is currently offering replacement battery packs for Gen 2, Gen 3 and C model Toyota Prius, Toyota Camry 40 and 50 Series, ZWE186 Corolla, Estima, and LEXUS vehicles including GS450H, RX400H and RX450H. With access Australia-wide, Injectronics says its battery packs are a convenient option for automotive technicians, providing a cheaper repair solution for your customers, along with a vastly reduced environmental impact. For more information, visit www.hybrid.injectronics.com.au or call 1300 308 060.
