Snorkel Leads the Charge on Lithium-ion Powered Equipment
Sponsored Article by Snorkel
Snorkel has established itself as a leader in the movement toward carbon reduction, and the well-known construction equipment manufacturer’s line of electric high-reach equipment has grown steadily as the company has continued to work toward the goal of net-zero emissions. Snorkel is one of the only manufacturers to carry a full range of lithium-ion-battery-powered aerial lifts and telehandlers, and the clean and quiet diesel alternative delivers zero emissions and requires zero maintenance.
Lithium-ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that uses the movement of lithium ions to create the flow of electricity. On Snorkel lifts, lithium-ion batteries replace diesel to power an electric motor in place of a combustion engine.
The overall operation of the lithium-ion battery-powered machine remains largely the same as a diesel machine, but with zero emissions. Another significant benefit is that the higher torque from lithium-ion battery-powered machines delivers higher gradeability for improved performance on rough or uneven terrain.
Snorkel’s lithium-ion-powered machines achieve up to a 93% reduction in service costs as they don’t require the oil and filter changes and occasional repairs of a diesel engine. Additionally, no engine fan means up to 62% reduced noise and dust generation for environmentally friendly operation, perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Lithium-ion batteries have many features that make them superior to lead acid batteries, including higher energy density, higher efficiency and longer lifespan. Energy density is the amount of energy that can be stored in a physical space. With a high energy density, lithium-ion batteries can discharge more stored energy than lead acid batteries, making them more efficient. When measured in discharge cycles, lithium-ion batteries also last longer than lead acid batteries. Lithium-ion batteries have a better depth of discharge and can be used at a higher capacity before recharging. On the other hand, discharging lead acid batteries at more than 50% of their capacity can negatively impact the lifetime of the batteries.
Both the battery pack and electric motor on lithium-ion-powered Snorkel machines are maintenance-free, saving significant time on the job as well as delivering a low total cost of ownership. While both battery types offer a clean alternative to diesel, lithium-ion batteries are the superior choice for long-term time and cost savings.
A lithium electric rough-terrain Snorkel scissor lift can also last longer than a lead acid battery model before needing to be recharged. Depending on speed and amount of usage, an electric model can stay charged and be operated for up to one work week between charges. Lithium-ion batteries can be fully charged in five to eight hours to maximize productivity and be top-up charged as needed. The total life of the battery under normal conditions is eight to ten years, and Snorkel offers zero-cost battery disposal at the end of the battery’s first life.
To meet and fulfill market demand for direct alternatives to diesel aerial lifts, Snorkel has developed a number of lithium-ion battery-powered models that deliver quiet operation with zero emissions, which includes its compact rough terrain scissor lift family, two speed level lifts, and a compact rough-terrain telehandler.
As Snorkel continues to respond to its customers’ requests and desires with equipment that offers practical solutions, expect to see an increase in the company’s range of lithium-ion-powered equipment.
For more information, please visit www.snorkellifts.com or www.snorkelnetzero.com.
