In this Q&A, Excell Battery’s Houston Regional Manager Bob Fay discusses the basics of downhole battery analysis and how to use Criterion 4 to maximize your downhole battery and tool investments. For more on the subject, you can watch our latest webinar HERE.

Q: Why is accurate and reliable data imperative to a downhole drilling operation?

Bob: When something happens to a tool or battery downhole, accurate and reliable data can help you find the cause and troubleshoot. Battery data from a Criterion 4-equipped battery gives operators insights into potential issues.

Q: Are there any common misconceptions amongst operators and/or manufacturers?

Bob: Operators and manufacturers often underestimate the high-resolution data that Criterion 4 can provide. Many do not realize the quality of data that this tool offers, leading to misinterpretations or missed opportunities for a better understanding of downhole conditions.

Q: Is there a problem in interpreting the data? Do operators struggle with understanding the amount of data provided?

Bob: Interpreting the data collected by Criterion 4 can be challenging for some operators. It is important for them to be trained to use the data effectively to make informed decisions. Understanding what metrics to look for and how to interpret them can help operators gain valuable insights.

Q: What are the top metrics that an operator should pay attention to?

Bob: Operators should focus on checking the voltage versus current output. That seems to be the number one indicator of issues that have occurred downhole. Whether they’ve used up the battery, or the tool has a failure causing a short circuit, you’re able to look at the current curves to see what that tool is doing. Comparing that against the voltage curve allows you to check if the battery is reacting appropriately to different conditions. Additionally, the CR4 has a very sensitive shock and vibration monitor which can give you a pretty good idea of the downhole conditions.

Q: How can an operator get the best usage out of a Criterion 4 battery?

Bob: The biggest thing is making sure you have sufficient memory capacity to cover the entire run downhole. There are tools in the Criterion app to optimize the amount of data you collect over a period of time, and using them ensures you gain a comprehensive picture of downhole conditions.

Q: What are the limitations of today’s technology?

Bob: One limitation of today’s technology is that the CR4 gauge is a consumable item that cannot be reused. While it collects accurate data from downhole conditions, the cost of the gauge needs to be balanced to ensure it does not significantly increase the overall battery price. But considering what it does cost, it is a very powerful electronic board that collects very good data from downhole conditions.

Q: Where is the technology headed?

Bob: Well, we do have Criterion 5 in the works. We’ll keep specific details confidential for now, but the upcoming upgrades are expected to enhance data analysis capabilities and further improve operations in the industry.

Q: With respect to downhole drilling data analysis, are there any current trends you see?

Bob: I think the biggest thing I find when I look at the data are blown fuses. The battery’s fuse is blown, and so why did that happen? So what are the signs that cause the batteries to blow the fuse? The Criterion data can show that to you if you know how to look for it.

For more information, watch our latest webinar on Downhole Battery Analysis With Criterion 4 HERE.

The post Downhole Battery Data Analysis With Criterion 4: Q&A with Bob Fay, Regional Manager, Houston, Excell Battery appeared first on Excell Battery Co..

In this webinar, we will provide current and up-to-date information for procurement professionals in the medical device industry on the dynamic medical battery market. We will explore the latest trends and supply challenges, equipping you with the knowledge and risk mitigation strategies to overcome today’s and tomorrow’s obstacles. The following topics will be covered:

• Understanding medical equipment battery applications, the importance of reliable power sources, and key factors to consider when evaluating supply options,
• Regulatory considerations, including costs and expected timelines
• Current trends in the medical battery industry/market from supply chain and technical standpoints, including those driven by EV development,
• Q&A session, including perspective on the new EU Battery Regulation 2023/1542

The post 2024 Medical Battery Market Insights appeared first on Excell Battery Co..

• Diving into the quality and accuracy of downhole measurements
• Outlining application requirements
• Giving a practical demonstration of Excell’s Criterion downhole battery software
• Explaining Criterion’s ability to fulfill application requirements

The post Downhole Battery Training appeared first on Excell Battery Co..

CAN Bus, a sophisticated and robust platform, opens the doors to real-time communication among components. Incorporating CAN Bus technology in downhole drilling batteries not only boosts operational efficiency, and minimizes waste, but also provides a significant competitive edge to tool manufacturers and end users. 

The Power of CAN Bus:

Renowned for its exceptional reliability and ability to function effectively in electrically noisy environments, CAN Bus technology stands out as a robust solution. It provides both the hardware and software framework needed to facilitate seamless communication within complex systems. 

In the context of downhole drilling, where electrical noise and interference present challenges to maintaining clear communication between systems, CAN Bus emerges as a promising option. When integrated into downhole drilling batteries, this technology ensures the lines of communication are kept open even when faced with less-than-optimal conditions. This resilience ensures uninterrupted performance in the demanding downhole environment.

A Shift in the Industry:

In comparison to alternative communication protocols, such as RS485 and proprietary QBUS, CAN Bus is emerging as the modern standard for downhole drilling batteries. This shift is primarily attributed to CAN Bus’ adaptability and its ability to tolerate electrical noise. However, a more advanced version, known as CAN FD is making waves in the automotive sector. This iteration facilitates faster data transmission and offers the ability to dynamically adjust data rates, making it an exciting prospect for the future of downhole drilling.

Practical Applications of CAN Bus:

The technical capabilities of CAN Bus bring cost and operational benefits for users of downhole drilling tools. Real-time communication with batteries enables on-the-fly monitoring of battery conditions, charge percentages, and overall performance. Manufacturers can even implement intelligent battery depletion strategies, prolonging battery life and reducing waste. Consider the scenario where two batteries are used together until a certain threshold is reached, resulting in one being discarded despite having unused capacity. With CAN Bus, batteries can be systematically depleted in sequence, optimizing their use and significantly cutting costs.

Cost Savings:

The ability to monitor battery conditions and manage depletion strategies through CAN Bus directly translates into time and money savings. Mike MacWillie, Excell Battery’s Director of Engineering provides insight into typical scenarios with and without CAN Bus communications;

“[The batteries] might still have 20% of their life left, but that’s not enough to complete a run. Whereas if you can communicate with batteries in real-time, you could put the 20% battery and a hundred percent battery into the same tool, deplete them one at a time, switch between them, and then completely deplete both. That 20% [battery] has an idea about when it’s going to shut off and switch over to the other one. So instead of throwing away that 20% capacity, you’ve used it on the next run even though it doesn’t complete the whole task”.

By implementing intelligent battery management, manufacturers can extend battery lifespan, enhance overall operational efficiency, and reduce the need for frequent replacements. How do the cost savings add up? MacWillie explains;

“There are some customers that run [batteries] once and throw them out, regardless of what’s left. There are some customers that will run them three or four times. And then there’s maybe 10% capacity left in it, But even 10% of a thousand dollar battery multiplied by a couple of hundred batteries a quarter, that’s a significant cost.”

Beyond just cost savings, this approach also minimizes downtime, boosting productivity and increasing competitiveness.

Elevating Tool Capabilities:

Legacy equipment may lack the advanced sensors and data collection capabilities of their modern counterparts. Retrofitting these tools with additional sensors can be both complex and costly. However, manufacturers can tap into the sensor data already available within the batteries by utilizing CAN Bus-equipped technology. Through CAN Bus communications, vital metrics become accessible, even if the tool itself lacks these sensors.

Imagine an older downhole drilling tool without a rotation sensor, a critical component for evaluating operational efficiency. Instead of investing in an expensive retrofit, manufacturers can leverage the rotation sensor present in the CAN Bus-enabled battery. By extracting rotation data from the battery via CAN Bus communications, the tool becomes capable of monitoring and optimizing its performance, all without expensive modifications..

A Success Story:

Now, let’s take a look at a real-life example of how CAN Bus technology has revolutionized the downhole drilling industry. A customer of Excell Battery’s which manufactures downhole drilling tools recognized the need for real-time communication and intelligent battery management. To harness these capabilities they turned to Excell’s Criterion batteries with built-in CAN Bus capability.

This collaboration led to the development of a custom CAN Bus communication protocol tailored to the manufacturer’s specific tools. Integrating this protocol into their equipment enabled them to establish direct real-time communication with their batteries. As a result, the manufacturer gained the capability to closely monitor battery conditions, charge levels, and other critical parameters while the tools were operational.

One of the remarkable outcomes of this partnership was the introduction of sequential battery depletion strategies. In the past, batteries were often discarded prematurely, resulting in wastage of remaining capacity. The implementation of intelligent battery management through CAN Bus revolutionized their approach. By sequentially depleting batteries, they maximized the usage of each cell, ultimately reducing waste and overall battery costs by optimizing battery lifespan.

The success of this tool to reduce end users’ costs and downtime propelled it to become an industry standard. The cascading impact of intelligent battery management, empowered by CAN bus, reverberated through their overall operations, improving efficiency and effectiveness.

Looking Ahead:

As the downhole drilling industry continues to evolve, embracing technological advancements like CAN Bus communications can provide a significant competitive edge. The capability to monitor, manage, and optimize battery performance in real-time is a game-changer. Manufacturers and end users that harness the power of CAN Bus can enhance operational efficiency, minimize waste, and maintain a strong foothold in a rapidly changing landscape.

In a world where precision, efficiency, and costs matter more than ever, CAN Bus communications are leading the charge toward a more intelligent and connected future for downhole drilling batteries. As the industry marches forward, those who embrace this technology stand to reap substantial benefits, both in terms of operational excellence and long-term success.

The post Saving Costs And Elevating Tool Capabilities: CAN Bus Communications in Downhole Drilling Batteries appeared first on Excell Battery Co..

For MWD operations, a reliable battery supplier can mean all the difference. With every location presenting its own set of challenges, how do you choose the right one?

In this interview with Bob Fay, Regional Manager of Excell Battery’s Houston office, we discuss the very real benefits of relying on experience and a proven track record. Bob discusses the downhole battery supply market globally, as well as issues specific to the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region.

Over 38 years of experience provides Excell with the ability to build and recommend batteries that can be relied on, as well as get them to their destination in a safe and timely fashion.

The landscape of the downhole battery supply market

Q:

Where are end users traditionally getting their batteries from? Where are the major suppliers geographically?

Bob:

MWD/LWD Batteries are primarily supplied by a group of companies in North America to operations in North America, MENA, and South America. I have heard about Asian battery pack sources, but we’re not exposed to them, so we don’t know who they are.

But most of all, the major customers in North America and the Middle East are being supplied from North America, manufactured in Canada and the U.S.

Regional problems faced when supplying to MENA customers

Q:

What are some regional problems that are very typical to come up in supplying downhole batteries to MENA (Middle East and North Africa)?

Bob:

Each country has different requirements, which present their own challenges. They have different paperwork, shipping requirements, customer requirements, and some countries have temporary embargoes on shipping dangerous goods by air.

Saudi Arabia, specifically, is the most challenging as far as the requirements they have for import. Due to the difficulties of shipping lithium batteries directly into Saudi Arabia, we need to be very creative in how to get batteries into the country. In addition, Saudi Arabia has specific testing certification requirements that must be followed in order to import lithium batteries. But we’ve been able to overcome that by understanding how the process works and the right way to go about the procedure and paperwork.

Why should a downhole operation choose an MWD battery supplier based on experience?

Q:

How do Excell Battery’s experience and background give you the tools to determine what needs to be done and how you respond to these situational cases?

Bob:

The experience that Excell Battery has helps us understand the downhole tools customers use and, therefore, what type of batteries are needed to power the tools. Most of the customers are using a limited number of downhole tools made by OEMs in North America. We have strong, ongoing relationships with all the major tool manufacturers, so we have knowledge and experience with the battery designs that go into those. Customers just have to let us know what tool they are using, like APS, Tensor, or Applied Physics, and as a result, we understand what type of battery they need. This also helps us understand what operational requirements they may encounter with the battery, and we can help them with that as well.

What should a MENA downhole battery purchaser look for in a supplier?

Q:

If you’re a user of a downhole battery in MENA, what should you be looking for in a supplier to give you that peace of mind that they can get a reliable product to them in a safe and timely fashion?

Bob:

First and foremost, you’d want to make sure that the supplier knows how to make a good quality battery that can withstand the rigors of the downhole environment, which includes high temperatures, high shock and vibration. These batteries must use high-quality cells from reputable cell manufacturers, and all components must be capable of the downhole environment. Having a battery monitoring gauge that works reliably and accurately, has become a very important requirement of our customers.

As for safe and timely transportation, we need to make sure batteries are authorized to ship. In other words, each battery must have the appropriate UN 38.3 testing completed to allow us to ship legally. All batteries manufactured by Excell Battery meet this requirement. You also need to know how to properly package the batteries in appropriate Dangerous Goods packaging so they can arrive at the destination without incurring damage from transportation. There’s also the logistics, as I mentioned before, and understanding the best way of getting it there.

Logistics to MENA can be a headache but we’ve developed relationships with different freight forwarders locally that can get batteries to specific customer locations. Not all freight forwarders are able to get batteries to all countries but we work with a certain group of freight forwarders that we know can get into certain countries like Saudi Arabia, Oman, Turkey, and UAE.

Q:

Is the manufacturing quality of the batteries a common issue in the downhole market?

Bob:

I would say the long-standing suppliers in North America all know how to make an acceptable downhole battery. So it’s probably not necessarily an issue, but new companies trying to come in may not have developed a good way to make a battery to withstand the downhole environment and the specific tool requirements. Also, a new supplier’s battery monitoring gauge may not be up to par in terms of reliability or accuracy.

Trends in the MWD battery supply market

Q:

Do you see any trends or changing regulations in the battery supply market to keep your eye on?

Bob:

The prices of all battery pack materials have increased. Lithium demand, in particular, is rapidly growing because of the EV market. Thus, lithium costs are drastically increasing as well as putting pressure on overall supply. We keep a close eye on our cell suppliers to make sure that they are able to adequately supply products, at a fair price, and with good quality. 

Q:

Earlier, you mentioned that until recently, you need to be very creative in how to get batteries into the country. Do you think there is a movement for Saudi Arabia to be more open to foreign supply?

Bob:

I think they have to be open to foreign supply because there is no in-country supply of lithium batteries. On top of that, we’re seeing a lot of expansion of horizontal drilling in the Middle East, so naturally, there’s a need for more MWD batteries, which is our forte at Excell Battery.

How Excell Battery Uniquely Understands the MENA Downhole Battery Market

Q:

Is there anything else you’d say that reflects how Excell Battery uniquely understands the MENA market?

Bob:

It’s important for us to get to know our customers’ operations and requirements well. We like to communicate with our customers often, and we meet a lot of the customers face-to-face. We also understand the tooling requirements well. Thus, we understand what they’re looking for when they buy a battery for a particular tool.

An experienced downhole battery supplier will help you navigate your unique challenges

An experienced MWD/LWD battery supplier is one that has spent years developing procedures to ensure the safe and timely delivery of batteries to their destination. It also has strong relationships built with customers in varying regions and with the manufacturers that make the tools that they use. This combination ensures that its understanding extends beyond the battery and into the challenges of various downhole operations. Excell Battery, with our 38-plus years of experience in MWD/LWD batteries, can support downhole operations in this manner.

For information on Excell’s Criterion 4 battery gauge for downhole operations, click here.

The post An Experienced MWD Battery Supplier Makes A Difference: High Reliability, Expert Support, and Logistics for MWD in the MENA Market appeared first on Excell Battery Co..

We will be posting all the answers in this YouTube playlist:

Current questions Bob has answered:

• How safe is a Li-Ion Battery Pack?
• How susceptible are battery packs to shock and vibration?
• How does a battery pack fuel gauge work?
• Is battery pack protection circuitry needed?
• What will happen if I puncture a Li-Ion Battery Pack?
• What is the shelf life of a Li-Ion battery pack in storage?
• What types of batteries are used in downhole drilling?
• What are the different types of lithium-ion battery cells?
• Is a LiFePO battery safer than a polymer or lithium-ion battery? 
• What battery recycling facilities should I recommend to my customers?
• Can lithium-ion batteries become overcharged?
• Why would I need a custom lithium-ion battery pack?
• What’s an ideal battery State of Health (SoH)?

The post Battery Bob: Your Battery Questions Answered in This Q&A Series appeared first on Excell Battery Co..

The Logistical Benefits of Onshoring

In any industry, the greater the distance required to move components through a supply chain, the greater the risk for delays. During the last few years, ports have been plagued by congestion, with shipping containers sometimes waiting weeks to be unloaded. When it comes to batteries, delays in the supply chain can have dire consequences for tech OEMs. In response to logistical delays and tariffs, there is a current movement amongst manufacturers toward “onshoring” their choice of suppliers. By partnering primarily with North American suppliers, Excel Battery substantially reduces the risk of shipment delays, avoids costly tariffs, and ensures a constant and reliable flow of essential components. 

At Excell Battery, we take a strategic approach to our engineering and manufacturing operations by positioning them in key North American hubs. Our Canadian facilities in Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto, coupled with our American facility in Houston, Texas, enable us to meet the demands of North American entities. 

The Engineering Benefits of Onshoring

Localization goes beyond the physical location of our manufacturing facilities. Excell Battery boasts a close-knit North American engineering team, allowing us to oversee the entire design process with unrivaled speed and efficiency, free from offshore complications. Even small hurdles like managing workflow amongst different time zones are eased or eliminated when a core team is centralized. This facilitates quick design iteration cycles, enabling us to respond promptly to rapidly changing market demands and stay at the forefront of technological advancements. As a result, our product development chain is characterized by agility, responsiveness, and reliability. 

The 2023 North American Advantage

As we settle into the post-COVID era, the persistent reality of supply chain disruptions looms large, fueled by ongoing geopolitical conflicts, inflationary pressures, and unforeseen challenges. Consequently, the accessibility and smooth flow of goods may be affected, leading to port delays, reduced freight availability, price surges, and other concerns. However, at Excell Battery, we are well-positioned to meet these challenges head-on.

Addressing the Challenges of Supply Risks and Rapidly Changing Technology and Conditions.

The surge in EV (electric vehicles) sales over recent years has intensified the demand for critical materials, putting tremendous pressure on battery component supply chains. As road transport electrification efforts continue to expand, driven by the global commitment to achieve net-zero emissions, the demand for essential materials is expected to further escalate, and technology is expected to advance rapidly. To mitigate the risk of disruptions, one effective strategy is to establish long-term contracts and partnerships with local suppliers, ensuring stability and a reliable supply of crucial resources. Keeping any design operations close to home also enhances our adaptability and responsiveness, so we can navigate any economic or product development challenges with resilience.

Addressing the Challenges of Economic Instability

Economic instability has triggered a cascade of challenges across global supply and product development chains. Fluctuations in demand have become unpredictable, making it challenging for businesses to effectively plan and produce goods. Rapid shifts in demand can lead to excess inventory or shortages, disrupting the supply chain flow. Additionally, the rise in interest rates is compounding the cost of corporate debt, further driving up the cost of labor and goods.

Fluctuating currency exchange rates add another layer of complexity, making it difficult for companies to forecast and manage costs for importing and exporting goods. The constraints of financial uncertainties weigh heavily on businesses, restricting their capacity to invest in crucial areas such as technology, infrastructure, and workforce. Excell Battery’s decision to center our operations within North America offers stability and efficiency. By utilizing local facilities and personnel, we maintain greater control over our supply and product design chains, reducing our vulnerability to external economic pressures.

Addressing the Challenges of Geopolitical Tensions

Amidst current geopolitical tensions, the prospect of material scarcity and soaring raw material prices looms large, presenting challenges to supply chains worldwide. As nations re-evaluate their relationships with global partners, exploring new strategies becomes a necessity. By reducing reliance on overseas suppliers, Excell Battery can maintain a stable flow of materials and minimize the risk of demand fluctuations. In their article, “The Supply Chain Trends Shaking up 2023,” KPMG explained, “Governments and industry leaders are exploring domestic self-sufficiency in material supply and manufacturing. Short of this, they are looking to build ‘friend-shoring’ relationships – trade links with like-minded and most likely geographically close countries (‘nearshoring’) where the supply of goods will likely be more secure.” Taking advantage of friendshoring or nearshoring has additional benefits such as enabling Excell Battery to reduce lead times, lower costs, and improve the speed of our products to market. 

The advantages of a North American supply and product development chain are clear – reduced risks of delays, avoidance of costly tariffs, efficient engineering processes, and a focus on local talents and resources. Additionally, local manufacturing offers greater control over production, ensuring consistent quality and timely delivery. By prioritizing these aspects and exploring new supply chain options, Excell Battery is well-equipped to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing landscape and emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of economic instability, material scarcity, geopolitical issues, and any other challenges that the future may bring.

The post The North American Edge in Supply and Product Development Chains appeared first on Excell Battery Co..

In this webinar, Ian Kane (CEO of Excell Battery), Caron Craig (Excell Battery Regional Manager – Vancouver), and Mike MacWillie (Excell Battery Director of Engineering) discuss:

• Industry trends that drive the need for intelligent battery packs.
• Steps and best practices to design a device with an intelligent battery pack
• Information on Excell Battery’s Criterion iQ intelligent Li-Ion battery pack

Industry trends that drive the need for intelligent battery packs

Steps and best practices to design a device with an intelligent battery pack

You can download a copy of the checklist discussed in this portion here:

Information on Excell Battery’s Criterion iQ intelligent Li-Ion battery pack and Q&A

The Criterion iQ intelligent Lithium-Ion battery pack provides the data needed to ensure the devices is always ready. For more information (including the product’s spec sheet), click here.

The post The Next-Generation of Intelligent Battery Packs (WEBINAR) appeared first on Excell Battery Co..

As the battery application demands increase rapidly, battery hardware and chemistry are struggling to keep up. Software known as Battery management Systems are becoming increasingly important for meeting these demands through performance optimization. Intelligent battery packs that incorporate these systems can improve battery lifespan, reduce waste, and enhance reliability and safety.

Download the Design Checklist

Click the button below to download Excell’s Intelligent Battery Applications Design Checklist for a step-by-step guide to the process of designing an intelligent battery pack, such as Excell’s Criterion iQ, into your next application.

The post Intelligent Battery Applications – Design Checklist appeared first on Excell Battery Co..

Introduction to Battery Management Systems for Medical Devices:

Battery Considerations for Medical Device Design

Q&A: Battery Management Systems: Designing for Safe and Reliable Medical Devices

The post Battery Management Systems: Designing for Safe and Reliable Medical Devices appeared first on Excell Battery Co..