Velsheda – Latest Generation Battery Technology
Following the successful upgrade of the hydraulic powerpack to new brushless motor technology last year, we returned to Velsheda to update and maintain the Lithium battery system installed by C-Designs in 2013. The new Battery system replaces the 3 battery banks with latest generation LiFePO4 batteries featuring increased cycle life, self-maintaining giving more endurance to cope with the demands of the hydraulic system during regattas. The battery management system was replaced increasing integration with the Power & Hydraulic system control & automation system providing more data feedback to the crew to enhance the use of the system whether Racing or Cruising.
Refurbish and Upgrade the 72v Hydraulic Powerpack
The 2020 refurbishment included replacing all valves & filters and adding a new inspection hatch for improved maintenance. The upgrade was a replacement of the DC motors with brushless motors of the same power rating but quieter and more efficient with significantly less maintenance required. The new motors are shorter allowing for improved airflow hence cooling.
Upgraded the Main PLC controller to the latest faster model and replaced HMI touchscreen interface with a new faster device with new graphics and integrated it into the yachts WiFi to allow access to the power & hydraulic system telemetry and control from any wired or wireless device on the network.
Our history with Velsheda dates back to 2014….
We were tasked by the owner’s team to evaluate the yacht’s existing hydraulic system and to look at ways to increase the speed and power of the deck winches while also reducing weight wherever possible. Our solution increased the available hydraulic flow by some 300% and reduced the weight from the existing power and hydraulic system by 3,000kg. These significant improvements enabled all the required functions, during even the heaviest racing manoeuvre, to operate to maximal performance, helping to gain an advantage around the racecourse. Of further benefit was the weight saving which allowed Velsheda to take more weight in her keel to improve righting moment.
We supplied a complete repower package that included specification, design and manufacture of PLC control and electrical systems, 72-volt 160kW hydraulic power pack and the specification and supply of 1200 Ah 72V LiPo battery banks, inverters, chargers and associated power supplies. Furthermore, proportional hydraulic valves, winch motors and variable displacement pumps were included in the upgrade package.
