Friday, September 22, 2006

Ultracapacitors & Space

http://maxwell.com/ultracapacitors/applications/space.html

Application: Satellites

Customer Requirements

Satellites require efficient power solutions. As with any other system that uses power, satellites have a need for reliable and efficient power delivery. In addition, satellites often require large busts of power to perform processor-intensive operations, which may be for a limited amount of time. Or, during a power outage it is often critical to maintain some electrical functions, such as the memory contents, that may require a small amount of current.

Maxwell's Solution

The high reliability of BOOSTCAP ultracapacitors makes them an ideal solution for mission critical electronics that must operate consistently, even during power outages. Although originally designed for terrestrial power needs, recent studies of Maxwell's ultracapacitors show that their performance remains the same when subjected to the unique environment of space. The PC5 has survived the environmental tests for MIL-STD-810 while our PC10, PC100 and PC1000 ultracapacitors continued to perform within spec while being exposed to gamma doses up to 200 Krad(Si).

Customer Benefits

Based on the results of these studies, BOOSTCAP® ultracapacitors are a viable option for power needs in low earth orbit satellite applications and pending further testing, may also be suitable for deep space missions. The smaller size and weight of BOOSTCAP ultracapacitors, as compared to traditional batteries and other power packs of similar performance, allows for a greater packaging efficiency which is essential for satellite applications.

These capacitors are used in the International Space Station PEEK (Portable Electrical Equipment Kit). The PEEK hardware provides electrical power extension cables and outlets as well as 120 to 28Vdc converter units to power portable electrical hardware on the ISS.

Evaluation of Maxwell Technologies PC-5 Ultracapacitor, by The Parts Analysis and Assurance group at the Johnson Space Center:


http://maxwell.com/ultracapacitors/support/papers/PC5_evaluation.html
http://maxwell.com/ultracapacitors/support/papers/PC5_evaluation.pdf

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