Thanks Frostie but my knowledge only goes as far a google, FB or LinkedIn takes me. I used to work in the Telco space so have some appreciation of what the company is doing.
There are a number of reasons why the Gen 3 ZBM2 will be a more successful product than the existing Gen 2.5.
Note, info has been taken from the “Redflow Gen 3 Battery Explained” video.
- Clearly past feedback will be applied to enhance the product. The improvements will reduce manufacturing complexity, serviceability, reliability which will all mean the better that 30% cost reduction will make the product more viable and sellable.
- Advancements in the technology, including stack technology, tank architecture, improved cooling, new electronics control system and less parts count all lead to a positive outcome for customers.
- The advancements allow Redflow to use mass manufacturing techniques for the first time allowing more automated production methods to allow scaling manufacturing in the future.
- They also say the the improved stack design with the simplified flow distribution manifold improves by reducing shunt currents in turn reducing losses in the battery. The simplified flow distribution manifold has a novel foil welding process to improve manufacturability.
- Their tank architecture making the tank side by side rather than a tank inside a tank reduces complexity, cost and improved reliability.
- The cooling system utilises new improved materials improving efficiency, safety and durability, due to less diffusion off bromine through the plastics.
- They also say a big step forward is the new advanced battery controller. It contains onboard DC-DC conversion allowing a range of voltages that can allow the battery to mimic other battery chemistries in terms of discharge capabilities. This opens up other markets including supporting ageing lead acid strings that may be uneconomical for a customer to replace their battery system.
- Black looks better than white. The new colour scheme IMO can play a role in peoples perception of the product. Appearance in products can make or brake personal choice for some, even so called professionals believe it or not. It does look like a better overall product and that is before we have seen a completed unit. Also on cosmetics, the new internal case is IMO much more appealing.
There are also some new additional form factors like the 'Industrial Battery Housing' (IBH).
In terms of the product fit in the Telco sector, from what I have heard from a few in the industry is the reliability of the pumps. Having moving parts that wear needs parts that have a high reliability. Telco expect very high reliability with all their infrastructure. Redflow will need to convince/demonstrate the reliability of these moving parts and having an alarming system that can proactively notify customers of ageing parts will go a long way.
The product already has a number of positive capabilities versus lead acid and lithium ion for Telcos and with the ability to mimic chemistries that telcos will retire over time allows Redflow to get their foot in the door much easier than previously for brownfield sites.
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