New NDMA member, Chris Verney of Barum Solar Heat has submitted a proposal to help with the UK government’s ventilator challenge
The proposal is to make use of ULTRA/SUPER CAPACITORS to power low-voltage ventilators making them independent of mains power reliability and also highly portable.
Chris explains: “as well as using traditional 240V AC power, existing ventilators and designs could be easily adapted to run on 12V DC power.”
“The government’s specification requires ventilators to be able to provide 20 minutes’ supply guarantee in the event of power interruption, but we suggest that at least double that should be the minimum”
“Most solutions require a backup unit that relies on traditional batteries with a DC-AC inverter and additional components. A 12V DC system using super capacitors would eliminate these inefficiencies and create a lighter, more effective product”
The aim is to be able to provide a UK solution that can be manufactured in North Devon, with additional applications for worldwide markets where power interruptions can be more widespread.
UPDATE 24/04/2020:
I am already in negotiations with company supplying units to the NHS and the firm who makes them. [A local company has] been contacted with a view to setting up a joint partnership venture
What are Supercapacitors?
A supercapacitor (SC), also called an ultracapacitor, is a high-capacity capacitor with a capacitance value much higher than other capacitors, but with lower voltage limits, that bridges the gap between electrolytic capacitors and rechargeable batteries. It typically stores 10 to 100 times more energy per unit volume or mass than electrolytic capacitors, can accept and deliver charge much faster than batteries, and tolerates many more charge and discharge cycles than rechargeable batteries.
Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supercapacitor
About Barum Solar Heat
Barum Solarheat is based in Barnstaple, Devon, and was established by Chris Verney back in 1979 to promote and increase awareness of alternative energy sources and develop viable, practical, renewable energy solutions.
The company initially began by designing and installing bespoke solar thermal units and wind turbines mainly for domestic hot water supply or to heat swimming pools.
Since then the company has continued to evolve by incorporating newer technologies such as solar photovoltaic, developing and adapted these technologies to provide their clients with cost effective solutions and innovative products.
In recent years the importance of conserving energy and increasing the use of renewable energy sources has become a major issue and Chris’s passion for promoting sensible energy use combined with over 25 years experience has put him in an ideal position to assess the needs of his clients and provide them with the right solution for them.
Any NDMA member interested in the supply and/or design of low voltage 12V DC options, please contact Chris by leaving a message on 01271 343377 ASAP
