It's now widely recognised that the massive array of electrically powered tactical systems being installed on both new and legacy military vehicle platforms has expanded far beyond the level anticipated just a few years ago. It's an accelerating trend and it's likely to get worse.
In many cases, vehicles are simply not designed to cope with the additional power burden. This can lead to electrical power shortages in theatre, causing systems to turn off without warning. This is a worrying safety concern as well as a significant tactical disadvantage. It also costs a huge amount of money.
The financial problem is two fold. Firstly, delivering replacement vehicle batteries to the front line is expensive. At an estimated 80 - 100 USD per Kg, a 120 ampere hour battery can cost $4000 dollars by the time it's where it's needed. Tactical and combat vehicles usually carry between four and six of these batteries and they can be damaged regularly when not monitored.
Secondly, as a result of a lack of confidence and knowledge regarding the power reserves available to them, crews are idling large diesel engines just to ensure the alternator is putting power into the system. With fuel just as expensive as batteries, this can cost thousands of dollars an hour for a single vehicle.
Merlin's battery monitoring, power management and generation systems can help solve these issues. At a cost equalling less than a one time battery replacement in theatre, the maths makes a lot of sense. In terms of vehicle crews knowing how much power they have at their disposal... Would you drive your car without a fuel gauge?
Merlin have significant experience in working with both vehicle manufacturers and MOD's. Our engineering team in the UK are security cleared by the UK MOD to work on sensitive projects.
If you have a power problem, no matter how complex, we would like to help.
Please select a product link from the right hand side or contact us at:
T: +44 (0)1202 697979
F: +44 (0)1202 691919
E: sales@merlinequipment.com
Military Projects - David Small: david.small@merlinequipment.com
| The following documents are available for you to download |
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Merlin Power Systems - Defence Brochure |
