- New battery technologies will be applicable in se, land and air transportation. This will help reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases from these sectors.
- The condensed batteries will open up a new era of electrification centred on high safety and light weight.
The most significant battery breakthrough by CATL has been announced recently. The lithium battery manufacturer discovered a new condensed battery with a 500KW/kg expected to go into production this year. These condensed batteries will be applicable in areas like the sea, land and air transportation. This will open up more possibilities of the development of the industry and fasten the goals of achieving global carbon neutrality. The new technology will surpass the current energy intensity of Tesla’s 4680 cells which rate a 272-296 Wh/kg. the new batteries integrate the technologies like ultra-high energy density cathode materials, innovative anode materials, separators and manufacturing processes.
Suspension clamp protect the conductors and devices from the aerial vibrations and swinging from the strong winds and storms. They help to reduce loose connections that lead to electrocution. Suspension clamps are from aluminum alloy and galvanized steel. These materials help them to resist rust and corrosion for durability. The presence of such materials helps to reduce repair and maintenance costs of the overhead transmission lines.
Electric plane sustainability with the breakthrough in battery technology
Electric planes offer the potential for sustainability benefits as battery technology continues to grow. The advancement of battery technology help to revolutionize the aviation industry. This is through providing a more sustainable and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. Suspension clamps wok with other pole line fittings such as bolts, nuts and washers which help to securing a connection on the overhead lines. This also helps to reduce overcrowding and loose connections. Breakthroughs like energy densities, fast charging times and longer flight times also increase the sustainability. Below are the various ways that the electric planes contribute to sustainability.
- Noise reduction
Electric planes have the potential to be much silent than traditional planes. This means that the electric planes can reduce the noise pollution in areas surrounding airports.
- Reduced carbon emissions
Electric planes have potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions in the aviation industry. This is because the aviation industry is one of the largest contributors to the greenhouse gas emissions globally. The electric vehicles can reduce the emissions from jet fuel combustion.
- Lower operational costs
Electric vehicles are energy efficient than traditional planes. This means that they require less fuel to operate. They can also be charged which takes less time than 20 minutes to charge. This also helps in reducing the downtime and charge times. This could lead to lower operating costs and potentially lower ticket price form consumers.
Challenges facing CATL in battery technology advancements
CATL is the leading manufacturer and one of the largest lithium-ion battery manufacturers in the world. The company recently announced a new breakthrough in battery technology that increases the energy density of the batteries. Suspension clamps vary in functionality and operability in different applications. This is because the clamps have different designs and mechanical abilities. This makes the batteries be able to store a lot of energy in a small space. The company however, faces several challenges in battery technologies which are as discussed below.
- Cost
The cost of battery production is one of the challenges facing the company. This is because the company works to reduce the costs by improving manufacturing processes. Increasing production capacity and developing more advanced battery chemistries also reduces the costs. Battery production is still expensive and the high cost can limit the adoption of electric vehicles and other battery powered technologies.
- Safety concerns
Any safety occurrences can damage the company’s reputation and trust in the industry which makes it a serious aspect in the production. CATL has experienced challenges such as batteries catching fire in a parked car in China. They have since established measures to improve safety which still remains a challenge.
- Supply chain issues
Supply chain for batteries is complex and subject to geopolitical risks. The companies face challenges in securing a stable supply of raw materials such as lithium, cobalt and nickel which are key in battery production.
- Environmental concerns
Manufacturing can have significant impact on the environment on the environment. This is especially in the resource consumption, waste generation and carbon emissions. CATL has faced criticisms for the environmental impact and has been working to reduce its carbon footprint and adopt more sustainable manufacturing practices.
- Competition
The battery industry is highly competitive and CATL faces competition from other established battery manufacturers. These includes Tesla, LG Chem and Panasonic.