Comtest has unveiled the new Sorensen Modular Intelligent-Bidirectional Energy AMplified (Mi-BEAM) series. This cutting-edge DC power system is designed to meet the demands of modern high-power electronics testing, offering a reliable, scalable, and versatile solution for industries such as automotive, energy storage, aerospace, and industrial applications.
Performance and flexibility
Comtest is the official representative of AMETEK Programmable Power in South Africa, and the Mi-BEAM series is the latest addition to AMETEK’s extensive portfolio of high-performance testing systems. Tailored for complex, high-power electronic testing, it covers all phases of the product lifecycle – from advanced research and development (R&D) to design validation and production testing.
This system is particularly suited for applications where both sourcing and sinking of power are required, such as battery testing, fuel cell testing, solar inverter testing, and electric powertrain validation.
The Mi-BEAM series offers complete DC power source and sink capabilities, delivering power levels from 12 kW to 37 kW in a single 4U rack-height chassis. For larger testing requirements, the system is fully scalable, allowing users to combine systems in parallel to achieve power outputs of up to 1.2 MW.
The available voltage ranges include 600 V, 1,500 V, and 2,000 VDC, with a maximum current of 150 A per system, making it suitable for a wide array of testing scenarios.
Key features of the Mi-BEAM series
The Mi-BEAM series offers several standout features that set it apart from other power testing systems:
- Comprehensive solution: Includes software for battery testing, simulation, and solar array simulation, making it an all-in-one system for various applications.
- High power density: With a power density of up to 37 kW in a 4U rack, the Mi-BEAM offers efficient use of space (9.25 kW/U).
- Fast and clean power: It provides the fastest transient response available and low output ripple and noise, ensuring precise testing conditions.
- Extended warranty: AMETEK backs the Mi-BEAM Series with a five-year manufacturer-based reliability guarantee.
- Scalability: The system is scalable up to 1.2 MW in parallel configurations, making it ideal for large-scale testing needs.
- Wide Voltage range: Capable of handling output voltages up to 2,000 V, it offers the flexibility to test a variety of high-power electronics.
- Bidirectional output: With the ability to provide bidirectional current up to ±150 A (or ±4,800 A in parallel systems), it is well-suited for charge/discharge testing of batteries and other energy storage devices.
- Efficient energy use: The Mi-BEAM boasts a regenerative capability of up to 95%, allowing it to return energy to the grid, reducing operational costs.
- User-friendly interface: The system is equipped with a colour touch panel interface for ease of use, offering a seamless transition between source and sink modes.
- Built-in safety: The Mi-BEAM features islanding detection, ensuring operational safety during testing procedures.
Applications
The Mi-BEAM series is highly versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications, including:
- Battery testing and simulation: For charge/ discharge testing of batteries, the Mi-BEAM offers precise control and fast transient response, ensuring accurate results.
- Electric powertrain testing: Ideal for automotive testing, especially for electric vehicles, where high-power testing is crucial.
- Fuel cell testing: The system’s bidirectional power capabilities allow for comprehensive fuel cell testing, from charge to discharge.
- Solar inverter testing: The Mi-BEAM is also equipped for solar inverter testing, thanks to its ability to simulate complex power flows and regenerative capabilities.
The AMETEK Mi-BEAM series, available through Comtest is an advanced solution for high-power electronic testing across multiple industries. Its combination of high-power density, scalability, and energy efficiency makes it an ideal choice for businesses looking to optimise their testing processes.
With built-in safety features, a user-friendly interface, and a five-year warranty, the Mi-BEAM Series is set to become a preferred option for testing in the automotive, energy storage, industrial, and aerospace sectors.
