All-solid-state batteries | Applications and collaborations case studies
| Solving Data Backup Issues of PLCs in Remote Locations | ||
| All-solid-state batteries reduce the risk of data loss |
Background
A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a type of digital computer that can be programmed for the various industrial applications, such as production line automation and transportation system control. Recently, PLCs have also been used to remotely manage operations in oil fields and agricultural irrigation systems via network communications.
One of the possible risks associated with PLCs deployed in remote locations is the potential loss of acquired data due to equipment shutdowns caused by sudden power loss or power failures. This is particularly concerning in remote locations, where maintenance workers may have limited access, leading to prolonged downtime.
To prevent such problems, some PLCs are equipped with a function that prevents interrupting of data backup by utilizing power stored in Electric Double Layer Capacitors (EDLCs) or single-use primary batteries during power interruptions.
However, both EDLCs and primary batteries have their advantages and disadvantages as data backup power supplies. Small-sized EDLCs, which are often used as data backup power supplies for PLCs, have the advantages of low degradation during repeated use and long service life, but their capacitance (energy storage capacity) is small. Primary batteries, on the other hand, have a larger energy storage capacity than EDLCs, but they are not rechargeable and need to be replaced each time they are used up.
In addition, PLCs are sometimes installed in environments with high temperatures, such as oil fields, necessitating that their backup power supplies be resistant to such conditions. Currently, PLCs installed in remote locations require rechargeable power supplies that can operate for long periods of time and are resistant to high temperatures.
Issues
(1) Only a short duration of data backup is possible.
(2) Maintenance workers need to travel to remote locations to replace batteries on a regular basis.
(3) Batteries must operate in high-temperature environments.
Solution
By adopting Maxell’s long-life∗1, high heat-resistant∗2 rechargeable all-solid-state batteries as alternatives to EDLCs and primary batteries for the data backup power supplies of PLCs, it becomes possible to develop PLCs that offer long-term data backup capabilities while reducing the frequency of battery replacements.
- Long-life: The Maxell conventional coin-type lithium-ion battery (927 size) can maintain 90% capacity for 10 days, while the all-solid-state battery can maintain 90% capacity for 100 days, based on accelerated testing at 60 deg. C.
- High heat-resistant: It is possible to discharge up to +125 deg. C. The heat resistance is high compared to that of general lithium-ion batteries.
Other applications
