JCB expands electric powerpack range

Jun 13, 2023

JCB is expanding its electric Powerpack range, with the addition of three larger models, delivering a 400V, three-phase output. This takes the range to five models, with total storage capacities of 23-104kWh.

JCB is building upon the success of its two 230V single-phase electric powerpacks, with the launch of three new 400V three-phase units. When used in conjunction with existing on-site power generation equipment, JCB battery powerpacks allow customers to reduce their dependence on diesel-powered generators when electrical demand is low. This increases efficiency, reduces fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, for a cleaner, lower carbon worksite.

In typical construction site use, rental generators can spend as much as 80% of the time running inefficiently at or below 30% load. However, even at this load, they require fuel, produce emissions and noise, and will need regular servicing. Project offices and cabins, for example, can be powered by a diesel generator set for up to 24 hours a day, seven days a week, though at night they may simply be powering CCTV and security lighting. With tower cranes, diesel generators can be used for as little as one hour a day, though the generator operates throughout the working shift.

In the events industry, diesel generators can create disruptive noise and exhaust emissions, while remote applications such as communication masts require very little power, though their location makes a diesel generator a necessity.

The solution is a JCB electric powerpack. Powerpacks can be used to support the low overnight load on a construction project, reducing reliance on noisy diesel generators, which will be popular with local residents in urban applications. A powerpack can also be used to provide the power for lighting and heating in a tower crane, with the diesel generator only required during lifting operations.

Powerpacks also deliver a green solution for charging JCB E-Tech electric machinery, such as mini excavators, compact telescopic handlers and site dumpers. The powerpack can be charged with green electricity and then transported to site, to recharge machines as required. This allows the use of environmentally-friendly electric machinery in remote locations without a site supply of mains electricity.

By utilising electric powerpacks, rental companies and contractors can reduce their reliance on diesel power, cutting service and maintenance, as well as operating costs. The JCB electric powerpack can help customers to reduce their CO2 emissions, to lower noise on site and extend generator life.

The three new powerpacks are the 3.50QE, the 3.75QE and the 3.100QE. With an output voltage of 400V, they have a total storage capacity of 46kWh, 69kWh and 104kWh respectively. With a continuous output of 36kW at 25C, each unit offers multiple socket connections, with RCD protection and input and output busbars, for ultimate connection flexibility.

The powerpacks are JCB LiveLink enabled, providing remote monitoring and ensuring that power is available when and where it is required. LiveLink also gives users the option to control some of the output sockets, enabling operators to remotely turn off sockets that are no longer required, to improve the efficiency of their site.

Each JCB electric powerpack is installed in a robust full steel enclosure, with lifting points and fork lift pockets, making it easy to transport on site. There are no fluids, no filters and no routine service requirements, ensuring low running costs and maximum availability. Equipped with energy-dense lithium-ion battery technology, JCB electric powerpacks deliver maximum power in the smallest package, reducing dependence on diesel power generation in every application.

Read more of our Sustainability articles here