Expeditionary Equipment: Power Solutions

Power Solutions

Mission Critical

The future of warfighting has arrived and without a doubt, effective and efficient power generation, storage, and distribution are mission-critical considerations. Moreover, for modern warfighters to truly excel in theater, they must have the capability to harness energy from the surrounding environment, to reduce dependencey on traditional power generation and logistics therefore extending operational reach.

Power Solutions

While military weapons unquestionably use a great deal of fuel, the largest power consumer during wartime are the generators needed to power the environmental control units, heaters, lighting, communications gear and refrigeration integrated into mobile facilities. When designing, procuring, and deploying the various components of forward positions, factors to consider in regards to determining field power requirements include the site location and environmental conditions, shelter types, number of personnel, power-reliant operational equipment and whether redundant power is required to support critical functions. The ability to convert natural resources into electricity is a key tactical advantage in modern warfare. And without a doubt, a reduced fossil fuel logistical burden, and a decrease in generator maintenance requirements translates into enhanced mission-centric capabilities, especially in forward areas and remote theaters of operations. The right mix of traditional power generators working in concert with more advanced power technologies and power-saving innovations (such as solar shade flys and radiant barriers) will effectively answer the needs of any forward installation, no matter the size, and provide an integrated power generation network that will provide both comfort, security, and operational readiness to in theater warfghters.

HDT 25KW Generator, 5-Ton ECU with Accessories on Trailer

Modern tactical, diesel-driven generators provide quiet and dependable power in the most challenging environments. These units are rugged and field-proven, equipped with Chemical Agent Resistant Coating (CARC) and optional military power output panels. Generators are highly mobile and come in a wide range of sizes – from smaller 25-kW units to larger 320-kW capacity generators. Parallel generators provide uninterruptable power while one unit is switched off for routine maintenance.

Energy Dense Power Systems PowerMod 1200M™

Alternative Power Generation

When energy efficiency is paramount, solar and renewable energy equipment provide effective alternative power generation which dramatically impacts fuel consumption. Flexible solar panel systems mounted on soft-wall shelters provide complete energy self-sufficiency for small base camp operations in mild conditions. These versatile systems feature a BOS (Balance of Systems) unit that works with solar, wind and other “green” power sources when available, storing any surplus energy, and integrating it with conventional power by turning generators on and off in response to demand. Military-grade power distribution boxes, breaker boxes, and power cables complete any installation, no matter how large or small. All components are weatherproof to withstand the most extreme conditions. If needed operational planners can always work with manufacturers’, engineers, and technicians to easily design and implement complete distribution systems tailored to meet the unique challenges of each installation.

Smart Power Generation Networking

Generators typically used to power forward operations bases operate independently of one another, almost always delivering more power than needed. Unfortunately, they are sized to run peak loads, but continuously running on partial loads and producing power in an inefficient manner. This practice engenders unnecessary run-time hours, uses exorbitant amounts of fuel and causes maintenance issues, such as wet-stacking, a common problem in which unburned fuel clogs the exhaust system. Also, inefficient usage means more generators, meaning more difficult logistical hurdles, decreased force mobility and in a worst-case scenario additional risk and casualties.

LEX Military Grade 5K Outdoor Distribution Box (USMC MEPDIS-R)

In contrast, networked generators dramatically reduce unnecessary fuel consumption and establish more efficient, flexible mobile facilities. Smart networking allows warfighters to connect and configure multiple generators in parallel to operate on a single power grid that only supplies the power required for immediate operational needs. As a result, the grid turns off unneeded units to ensure that a facility will only use the amount of power it needs to operate. Benefits include:

• Reduced Fuel Consumption – By eliminating the need to have stand-alone generators working at peak output without interuption, smart networking slashes overall fuel consumption. and, these generators run near full loads, often at close to 90%, to further achieve maximum fuel efficiency.
• Reduced Generator Maintenance – By turning off unnecessary generators, smart networking minimizes engine run-time hours, increases unit lifespan and prevents issues commonly experienced in the field, such as wet-stacking.
• Operational Flexibility and Scalability – By interconnecting multiple generators, smart networking allows warfighters to easily integrate additional generators into a field facility as their power requirements change from mission to mission.

Self-Sustaining Power Solution Features:

• Solar panels clip directly to the shelter roof
• Expandable Solar Array (ESA) panels link together in 5′ wide sections
• Easy connections & easy start up for warfighters
• Connection to 24 volt military vehicles
• Auxiliary solar/wind/hydro/generator input for additional power sources
• Ruggedized inverter includes transformer for true sine wave generation for sensitive equipment
• Expandable Battery Packs (EBP’s) gang together to increase power capacity
• Balance of System (BOS) unit regulates power coming in, power to the batteries, and power to the loads