Battery backup unit system reduces railway modernization times

Powerbox has launched its second generation Battery Backup Unit System (BBU-S) to support the modernization of railway networks and industrial applications that require flexible power backup systems with extended monitoring and control. Responding to the needs of a large range of applications and designed for use in enclosed outdoor environments, the device comprises an industry standard 19-inch rack unit with sub-modules. System-wise, the device includes an active power factor corrected input, micro controlled smart charging, automatic battery test, output distribution and several control and monitoring signals. Developed for fast deployment in heterogeneous railway and industrial applications, the versatile unit is available with AC or DC input voltage and can charge and control multiple battery pack configurations. It starts at 340W and is available up to 1200W. For remote monitoring and control, the device offers multiple options such as LAN interface, a radio communications module (GSM, 3G, LTE) and can be reconfigured to match specific demands as needed for different applications. “Railway modernization programs are now integrating digital control and additional safety functionalities that require a new generation of equipment for signaling, one that includes monitoring and independent battery backup. Most, if not all modernization programs will require it necessary to maintain and upgrade existing systems without any traffic disruption. This demands a high degree of flexibility in the power solution deployed at the trackside.” said Patrick Le Fèvre, Powerbox’s chief marketing and communication officer. “To achieve this goal, we developed the modular concept BBU-S, making it easy to adjust and adapt to different configurations. Existing power modules and monitoring units can be substituted by fitting the new generation ones into the existing chassis, and in the cases of expansion or high level upgrades that require a very short time to achieve operational status, the new modular racks can be customized to specific configurations to power new signaling equipment such as optical fiber transmission.”