Category Archive: Charging Infrastructure

Your Ultimate Q&A on Power Bus Systems

What is a decentralized power bus system?

A decentralized power bus system typically refers to an electrical power distribution system that is designed to manage electrical power in a decentralized or distributed manner over multiple points. In a decentralized power bus system, the power distribution is streamlined, and power is supplied closer to the point of use.

Figure 1 A typical centralized power system

How does a decentralized power bus system differ from a centralized one?

In traditional power distribution systems, power is often centralized and transmitted over long distances from power supply cabinets to various machines or motor drives.  Decentralized power distribution significantly simplifies the power pathway by reducing the physical distance between a piece of equipment and its power source.

Figure 2 A Decentralized system using podis

What are the key components of a decentralized power bus system?

Two key components of a decentralized power distribution system are a multi-wire main power bus cable and tap-off modules.  The tap-off modules are designed to connect and draw power from the bus cable to individual devices, such as motors on a conveyor line.

Depending on the system and application scenario, the incoming power could come by one of the taps or through an incomer box.

Figure 3 Components of the podis power bus

What advantages does a decentralized power bus system offer?

A decentralized power bus system offers multiple advantages to modern factories. Firstly, it significantly simplifies the design and fabrication of power infrastructure within factories and warehouses that use large conveying systems or machine cells.  Significant cost reductions are achieved by minimizing complex wiring and associated electrical conduits throughout the factory or warehouse.

A decentralized power distribution system using a power bus also adds flexibility to power infrastructure by allowing motors and machinery to be connected and disconnected anywhere along the bus quickly and easily. This allows factories to effortlessly and rapidly adapt by shortening commission time.

Lastly, and unique to the podis® system, is the considerably accelerated installation time. The unique taps take only minutes to install, saving valuable time during deployment and subsequent changes.

Are there any disadvantages or challenges associated with decentralized power systems?

Some decentralized systems use an insulation piercing technology (IPT) which can be destructive to the copper conductor of the main power cable, resulting in voltage drop and deterioration of the system over time. However, newer technologies such as the podis® power bus use a non-damaging copper displacement technology which prolongs the system’s performance and lifespan.

Figure 5 Copper Displacement

What applications are best suited for decentralized power bus systems?

Applications such as large conveyor systems used in airport baggage handling or warehouse automation are perfect applications for decentralized power bus systems.  In addition, automated machining centers and material handling equipment also work well with decentralized power.

How are faults managed in a decentralized power bus system?

Managing faults in a decentralized power bus system involves a combination of protective measures, monitoring, and control strategies to ensure the reliability and safety of the system. Integrated circuit breakers or fuses, current monitoring sensors at the start of a power bus or temperature sensors placed on equipment or motors may all be integrated into a decentralized bus system.

What standards exist for decentralized power bus systems?

In the US, standards such as UL 2875 (Signal and Power Distribution for Industrial Control) and UL 1277 (Standard for Electrical Power and Control Tray Cables) dictate the use of power bus distribution systems.

 

Why podis® Is the Ideal Solution for Setting Up a Charging Infrastructure

Flat and TC-ER cables have long been used to power machinery and motors in industrial settings. However, their potential for installing EV chargers in parking garages has been overlooked. Unlike the conventional method of using round cables within metal conduits, podis® offers a much more practical solution.

As a TC-ER flat cable, podis® eliminates the need for additional mechanical protection in covered garages, making it ideal for underground or multi-level parking areas. By leveraging the benefits of podis®, parking garages can establish flexible and reliable EV charger setups, tapping into the proven reliability of flat cables in industrial environments..

The transformation of transportation through e-mobility is bringing forth a cleaner and more sustainable mode of transit. However, for electric vehicles to be widely adopted, the presence of robust and accessible charging infrastructures is crucial. Unfortunately, Type 2 charging, also known as destination charging, has been slow to gain traction in key areas such as residential condos and commercial spaces. The high initial setup costs have proven to be a significant barrier to adoption in these locations.

Building owners and electrical installers need help setting up charging stations for tenants or public access in commercial spaces. These challenges include high setup costs, managing power draw, adapting to tenant changes, time pressures for installation and maintenance, and meeting the increased demand for EV spaces. Overcoming these obstacles is essential to provide convenient and reliable charging infrastructure for electric vehicle users.

This article will discuss how podis® addresses building owners’ and electrical installers’ specific pain points.

Power Bus System From Wieland Electric
For Building Owners

As a building owner, establishing a charging infrastructure can be complex and costly. Podis® offers the following benefits tailored to address your pain points:

Flexible and Scalable System

Podis® provides a flexible and scalable system where station locations can easily be changed along the main power bus. This allows for the addition of more stations later. Building owners can avoid investing in the entire solution upfront, potentially saving on material costs. Additional stations can be added to the existing bus if capacity allows, eliminating the need for purchasing materials each time a new station is added.

Faster Installation and Less Downtime

Podis® provides a remarkable advantage with its 80% faster installation than traditional methods such as pipe and wire. This accelerated installation process significantly reduces downtime and minimizes disruptions to residents and businesses. Moreover, the quicker installation time enables building owners to efficiently meet the rising demand for EV spaces.

UL Listed System
For Electrical Installers

For Electrical Installers, Podis® offers key benefits and solutions to address their specific pain points:

Alleviates Demand and Labor Shortage

With the faster installation process of podis®, electrical installers can complete more projects in less time. The availability of podis® products in the large warehouse in Canada ensures easy access to the required materials. Additionally, tap-off modules come with pre-wired 6 ft cables ready to terminate in the charger, simplifying planning and procurement.

Enhances Customer Experience and Retention

Podis® enables installers to provide a better customer experience by reducing wait times and ensuring a cleaner workspace. The fast installation process ensures minimal customer disruption, increasing customer satisfaction and customer retention rates.

Offers Cost Advantage

By saving on material costs through the use of podis®, electrical installers can offer more competitive pricing to their customers. This cost advantage can give installers a competitive edge in the market.

Ensures 100% Guaranteed Connection and Maintenance-Free

Podis® ensures a secure and reliable connection, providing installers and their customers’ peace of mind. The system’s design eliminates ongoing maintenance, reducing the time and effort required for post-installation support.

Podis Decentralized Power Distribution
Decentralized Power Distribution: Simplifying EV Charging Infrastructure

Decentralized power distribution is a fundamental concept that simplifies EV charging infrastructure setup. Unlike the traditional approach, where each connection to the charger originates from a main electrical box, decentralized power distribution utilizes a shared long power bus. This innovative method optimizes power distribution within the charging infrastructure.

Proven Technology with a Decade of Success

Decentralized power distribution, implemented through solutions like podis®, has been successfully used in industrial settings for over a decade. This technology can be found in prominent facilities such as Amazon distribution centers and international airports like Pearson, LAX, Heathrow, and many more. In these industrial settings, decentralized power distribution powers multiple motors along extensive conveyor lines. Its high flexibility and ability to maintain low voltage drop over long distances make it a reliable and efficient choice.

Elevate Your Charging Infrastructure With Wieland Electric’s podis®

The Wieland Electric innovative solution offers reliable, efficient, and flexible power distribution for electric vehicle charging. With podis®, you can benefit from all these advanced features! Through our expertise and high-quality products, we provide a reliable and sustainable solution that meets the demands of electric mobility.

Experience the difference podis® makes in simplifying your charging infrastructure setup! Contact us today to learn how we can help you.

Ready to learn more? Request an info session or pre-register for our September webinar! Discover how podis® can transform your charging infrastructure.