New Industry Products

SFC Smart Fuel Cell Introduces New EFOY Pro Series For Off-grid Industrial Applications

October 27, 2008 by Jeff Shepard

SFC Smart Fuel Cell AG announced its new EFOY Pro series, described as providing silent, reliable power for remote industrial applications ranging from surveillance cameras to measuring, monitoring and early warning systems and traffic-guidance equipment.

The EFOY Pro series is said to deliver significant logistical and cost-saving advantages over conventional remote power supplies, such as batteries, solar cells and generators. The EFOY Pro series is said to supply maintenance-free, reliable off-grid power for a virtually unlimited period of time, as long as there is fuel. The company’s 28-litre M28 methanol fuel cartridge, for example, provides 31.1 kWh of power. That is enough to operate a remote sensor for more than 50 days without any user intervention.

"We have applied our extensive experience in the development, production and commercial use of direct methanol fuel cells to the demanding requirements of professional users to create a specific product range for industrial applications," said Dr. Peter Podesser, CEO of Smart Fuel Cell. "This unique product line delivers a new level of performance, reliability and flexibility in off-grid power systems for remote industrial applications."

With its integrated set of connectors, the new EFOY Pro Series offers maximum installation flexibility and can be easily included in any customer application. The fuel cells’ robust casing and construction can withstand the roughest environmental conditions and temperatures between -2° F (-20° C) and 113° F (45° C). The fuel cell can be connected to either 12 or 24V batteries, as the integrated automatic charge control will recognize the battery type and adjust the charge process automatically.

EFOY Pro Series fuel cells can be connected to all EFOY fuel cartridges, enabling the user to adjust weight or operating times to the individual requirement of each specific application. All EFOY Pro Series fuel cells can be ideally combined with other power sources. In these hybrid systems, the fuel cell switches on only when additional power is needed.

The EFOY Pro series is available in three models: EFOY Pro 600, EFOY Pro 1200, and EFOY Pro 1600. The series offers a charging capacity of 600 to 1600 Wh per day, depending on the individual application. In operation, the EFOY Pro produces a very low humming sound of 23 dB(A) at a distance of 23 feet (7 meters). It can be operated in closed rooms and vehicles and will produce off-grid power for weeks without requiring any user intervention. Moreover, customers can remotely monitor and control their off-grid equipment with a mobile phone or computer via an integrated user interface.

Measuring 17 x 7.5 x 11" (44 x 19 x 28cm) and weighing approximately 18 lbs (8 kg), the EFOY Pro series fuel cell fits into any switch cabinet or vehicle. For reliable outdoor operation in any weather, SFC offers the EFOY ProCube. The weatherproof box features preinstalled connectors and cables for any battery and fuel cartridge size.