BENEFITS OF LITHIUM-ION TECHNOLOGY IN CLEANING INDUSTRY – UPDATE 2024

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

We know very well that batteries are a key resource for providing portable power. They are particularly useful when the use of power cables is inconvenient or where the need to minimize noise and emissions makes electric power an ideal alternative. This is particularly relevant for industries using battery-powered floor cleaning machines, where operational flexibility and efficiency are paramount. 

Over the years, batteries have progressed significantly. While lead-acid batteries were once standard, followed by nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) and nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH), lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have emerged as the superior option. With their higher energy density, longer lifespan, and reduced maintenance needs, Li-ion batteries are transforming the cleaning industry. 

Li-ion technology stands out primarily for its ability to store more energy in a smaller volume than other type of battery can achieve, offering several key advantages. Here, we break down four reasons why lithium batteries are optimal for walk-behind and ride-on floor scrubber dryers. 

1. Lightweight and Compact
2. Longer Lifespan
3. Low Maintenance
4. Fast Charging

Li-ion batteries’ high energy density allows them to be smaller and lighter than other batteries, without compromising power or runtime.

That means lighter and more manoeuvrable equipment, more working hours and less time spent recharging, or both.

For example, lithium batteries typically hold 260-270 watt-hours (wh) per kilogram (kg), far surpassing lead-acid (50-100 wh/kg) ¹. This high-density power output, developed partly through advances in electric vehicle R&D, allows equipment to operate longer and weigh less—benefiting operators who work with heavy-duty machines like the IPC CT80 and CT110 ride-on scrubber dryers.

As they go through repeated charging and discharging cycles, all batteries lose the ability to store energy. However, this happens more slowly with lithium-ion than with other technologies. What is more, lithium does not suffer the memory effects seen in nickel-based batteries.

To be more specific, a lithium-ion battery will still have at least 80% of its storage capacity remaining after it has been through 200 charge-discharge cycles¹. That is much better than the competition and it means the battery won’t need replacing as often. Li-ion batteries in IPC cleaning machines, for instance, are engineered for up to 4,000 charge cycles, meaning longer operational life and significantly reduced replacement costs.

Investing in equipment like the IPC CT51 and CT71 walk-behind scrubber dryers with Li-ion batteries helps to ensure years of reliable service and lower substitution cost.

Battery maintenance generally involves checking and topping up electrolytes or recharging periodically. Li-ion batteries, however, require minimal upkeep. They retain up to 98% of their charge even if left unused for weeks, making them ideal for cleaning machines that are periodically stored¹.

Li-ion batteries eliminate the need for frequent top-ups and allow for opportunity charging, reducing training requirements and simplifying maintenance—ultimately cutting costs in cleaning operations.

Thanks to their advanced chemistry, Li-ion batteries charge significantly faster than other battery types. With IPC scrubber dryers equipped with Li-ion batteries, you can minimize interruptions to your cleaning operations by taking advantage of fast-charging capabilities. These Li-ion batteries charge, on average, 30% faster than standard batteries, allowing for more cleaning time and less downtime.

When integrated with equipment such as the IPC CT30 and CT45 walk-behind scrubbers, fast-charging Li-ion technology ensures you maximize productivity by reducing interruptions during cleaning activities.

Lithium-ion batteries help keep mobile cleaning equipment compact and lightweight. They boost productivity too, by enabling longer periods between recharging. If you are looking for or evaluating battery-powered cleaning equipment, make sure it comes with lithium-ion power.
IPC offers an extensive range of floor scrubber dryers equipped with advanced Li-ion technology, including walk-behind models like the CT5, CT15, CT30, CT45, CT51, and CT71 and the ride-on options like the CT80 and CT110.

Explore our website to view our range of cleaning solutions or contact our team to discuss how IPC’s Li-ion technology can enhance your cleaning operations.

Source:
¹ PIN – Solutions for the Petrochemical, Chemical and Energy Industries – What Are the Benefits of Lithium Ion Batteries? – https://www.petro-online.com/news/measurement-and-testing/14/breaking-news/what-are-the-benefits-of-lithium-ion-batteries/58817