Ultracap knowledge
Graphene Supercaps - Revolutionary Energy Storage
Ultracap-Knowledge | Rainer Hake | reading time: 4 minutes
Graphene revolution in the energy storage market
Graphene-enhanced ultracapacitor energy storage systems are being labelled a revolution in the industry. The physical and chemical properties of this alternative to activated carbon in supercapacitors clearly speak in favour of this.
In principle, the use of graphene layers just one molecule / atom thick instead of the usual activated carbon is about further optimising the main properties of ultracapacitors: Storing and releasing large amounts of energy in a short space of time.
Reports from materials research on improved graphene derivatives have raised many hopes in recent years. The extraordinarily high electronic mobility and the extremely high surface area in relation to volume are not the only advantages of graphene. It also has higher thermal conductivity than activated carbon, greater chemical stability and particular mechanical strength. All aspects that are decisive factors in the production of high-performance ultracaps in thinner, lighter designs with a long service life.
The biggest limitation of this material innovation is its production. Production costs are significantly higher compared to conventional ultracaps that use activated carbon. However, processes such as chemical vapour deposition (CVD) and the development of hybrid materials (graphene with nano-materials) are ensuring a positive development in economic efficiency. It is clear that graphene ultracapacitors and their embedding in energy storage systems are a very useful addition or alternative to the current ultracap technology standard. Due to the current cost situation, this is primarily where particularly high charging and discharging capacities or high energy densities are required.
The Dubai-based supercap manufacturer ENCAP is developing into an important player in this market for high-end energy storage systems. CAPCOMP GmbH has been distributing ENCAP energy storage solutions since January 2024 in cooperation with the Swiss company BIRR energy. Ask us for advice and detailed product information.
Specification of ENCAP energy storage systems with graphene
Direct current energy and direct current voltage
The system offers a remarkable 10kWh DC energy storage with a voltage range between 43.2 VDC and 60.8VDC and a nominal voltage of 48VDC. The internal resistance is impressively low at less than 4 mΩ. Everyone knows what that means for efficient energy transfer.
New: Encapsulated cells
The core of ENCAP's innovation lies in the technology of encapsulated cells. Each cell operates at a nominal voltage between 6.4~6.6 VDC.
Charging and discharging characteristics
- Charging: The ENCAP system allows a maximum charging current of 1C at 25°C and utilises the CC/CPNP charging method for fast and efficient energy absorption.
- Discharging: Similarly, the system can operate with a maximum continuous discharge current of 1.5C at 25°C, utilising the CC/CPNP method for smooth and safe energy delivery.
EN-CONNECT: Integrated software
The associated EN-CONNECT software monitors and manages the energy storage system. Further features:
- Real-time data: Total voltage, individual cell voltages, current, temperature,
instantaneous power and more. - Safety functions such as circuit breaker status, SOC and energy consumed
Mechanical specifications
- Dimensions of the device: 433 X 335 X 650 mm
- Weight: 120kg
- Housing: robust aluminium oxide/GI powder coating; 300A clamping column
- OLED display
- Connectivity: WIFI, CANBUS, BLUETOOTH
- Safety alarms: Buzzer alarm system for over/under voltage,
overcurrent and overtemperature. - Dry contacts: Both output and input contacts offer additional hardware
additional hardware protection and terminal disconnection for improved
safety.