march2023 - 16

Cover Story
Evolving Maintenance
As GSE maintenance shops continue to recruit the workforce,
it is important to consider the types of maintenance tasks
that will be performed.
The increased use of electric vehicles (EVs) and a push for
more electric ground support equipment (eGSE) across the
industry is changing the scope of maintenance required.
eGSE, Schaeffer notes, has far less fluids and filter
changes, fewer components to fail, and an easier-to-diagnose
drivetrain.
" I've personally and professionally been involved in EVs for
a decade and can say they are easier to diagnose, " he says,
adding that EVs have less downtime and are more robust than
their non-electric counterparts.
GSE, in general, is being engineered to require less maintenance
and upkeep, according to Gerry Hoadley, director of
ground support equipment at Waev Inc.
He notes that routine maintenance is greatly reduced on
GSE powered by lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, which reduces
associated costs.
" This cost reduction stems from many factors, " he says.
According to Hoadley, they include a minimal number of
moving parts within the drive system, regenerative braking
lessening brake pad wear, and battery chemistry that requires
no serviceable cooling or heating system.
The batteries themselves require zero maintenance,
he adds.
" They also allow for opportunity charging - charge them
anytime, for any duration to partially charge or top-off without
negatively impacting the battery - eliminating inconvenient
charging parameters, " he says. " Li-ion batteries also
don't require posts to be cleaned or fluid to be monitored or
added, making them much more reliable. "
" Lithium batteries like to be at a state of 20-80 percent state
of charge (SOC), and about 100 degrees Fahrenheit, " Schaeffer
points out. " Plus, they don't need periodic watering like lead
acid, nor to be unplugged after charging.
" Keeping 20-80 percent SOC is relatively easy with battery
management and has the biggest impact on the expected life
of the battery, " he continues. " The battery temperature is a
factor, but in my opinion, not enough to warrant liquid cooling.
Liquid cooling adds cost, complexity and maintenance for
little return on investment. "
As equipment evolves and fewer maintenance requirements
are engineered into GSE, requirements for maintenance
personnel will also change.
" I predict in the next few years, as electric is more accepted
and embraced, the need for mechanics will decrease, " Schaeffer
says. " I also predict the level of training and experience
needed will also decrease. The mechanics coming from a 2-4year
program at a trade school will be more effective repairing
electric than fluid fuel when they first enter the workforce. "
REDUCING MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS WITH LI-ION
As battery technology has advanced, electric
ground support equipment (eGSE) has become
more prevalent in the industry.
According to officials at Waev Inc., GSE
that utilizes lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are
becoming more prolific and offer ground service
providers a number of positive benefits. Chief
among these advantages are less required
maintenance and improved total cost of
ownership (TCO) and return on investment
(ROI).
" Li-ion batteries last significantly longer than
flooded lead-acid or AGM batteries - up to five
times as long - contributing to a lower total cost
of ownership, " Waev officials say. " In addition
to the longer battery life, Li-ion vehicles save
significant money and time because there
aren't ongoing costs - routine maintenance,
install labor, annual battery replacements and
opportunity costs.
" For customers looking to maximize their
uptime, lower TCO and improve ROI, Li-ion is
the optimal choice. "
Li-ion batteries do not require watering or other
maintenance.
Li-ion batteries pack more power and are
half the weight of flooded lead-acid and AGM
batteries, according to Waev officials.
" Advanced Li-ion batteries provide at least
3,000 cycles and the greatest efficiency
without power loss (maintains speed and
acceleration, even when climbing hills) as
the battery charge depletes, " Waev officials
add. " An integrated battery management
system protects the battery and allows for safe
operation, maximizing the battery's longevity by
accurately monitoring charging profiles, levels
and performance and managing overall battery
health under every condition for performance
and safety. "
Waev officials note Li-ion batteries offer
sustainability, safety and efficiency benefits as well
as charging options and consistent performance in
all weather conditions.
16 || Ground Support Worldwide || March 2023
In addition to maintenance and TCO benefits,
Waev officials note Li-ion batteries also offer
sustainability, safety and efficiency benefits
as well as charging options and consistent
performance in all weather conditions.
WAEV
march2023

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of march2023
