Only a few years ago, departments shied away from battery-powered tools, but as we head into Intersec 2022, this technology is expected to dominate the show as a driving force behind many of today’s leading firefighter innovations. In fact, you’re likely to see a gamut of battery-powered tools lining the Intersec aisles – some powered by DeWalt FLEXVOLT batteries, others compatible with the Milwaukee M18 or M28 platform, and of course, many touting Lukas EWXT/E3 batteries.
Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have been the driving force behind this evolution. (Once upon a time, battery technology was proprietary, making these then-behemoth batteries hard to source. Additionally, departments couldn’t trust the power density of these battery-powered tools.) But in the last decade, lithium-ion batteries have emerged and advanced drastically. Not only are these batteries compact but they tout some of the highest energy densities (compared to other rechargeable battery technologies).
Plus, the Li-ion landscape keeps changing. The foundational building block of these batteries is the lithium-ion cell that makes up the battery pack. Packs are made up of series and parallel connections to reach optimal voltages and amp-hour ratings. The common cell used to be an 18650 (18mm in diameter x 65mm tall) cylindrical cell, but now 21700 (21 x 70mm) and 26650 (26 x 65mm) cells are making headway.
These numbers simply refer to the physical size of the cell, and while the explanation is simple, the difference is profound. An extra 5mm of length and 3mm of diameter gives the battery cell 47% more volume. And with more capacity comes more runtime. Today’s 21700 power tools deliver 50–100% longer runtimes than the 18650 tools, and all the while, battery manufacturers have found better ways to improve their packs’ cooling capabilities.
In short, these batteries are simply much more reliable, giving departments more confidence in this power source.
And it’s not just rescue tools that are running off these lithium-ion batteries. Over the span of three years, Super Vac introduced a full line-up of compatible positive pressure ventilation (PPV) fans, incorporating the above platforms into its models to create an arsenal of like-powered battery tools. This coveted battery-powered PPV line-up now includes ten models to meet the size, output and battery preferences of each department, available in 16in, 18in and 20in variations and a range of outputs (from 13,592 to 21,320cfm).
Not only does the Super Vac battery fan pair with existing HURST, DeWalt or Milwaukee battery-operated products to simplify departments’ battery purchases but this fan features a unique design that makes it highly manoeuvrable. Departments can choose from the 16in easy-to-carry saddle bag design or select an 18in or 20in model with folding ergonomic handle and flat-proof rubber wheels that make these fans easy to transport. All three fan sizes feature 180-degree tilt for various attacks, allowing the PPV to be directed at attics or manholes or positioned for positive or negative ventilation.
To add to its versatility, departments can equip their fan with optional accessories, including spiral ducts, magnetic misters, foam adapters, carry straps, apparatus mounts and more.
So, if you’re looking to jump on the battery-powered bandwagon, be sure to look for this fan and its other battery counterparts at Intersec. We’re certain these tools won’t be hard to find.
For more information, go to www.supervac.com
