Innovation in battery production: The formation trays from ZELL

February 1, 2025

Electromobility and the increasing demand for high-performance energy storage systems are continuously driving innovation in battery cell production. One of the central processes in production is the formation of the battery cells, in which the performance parameters of the cell are determined through controlled charging and discharging. The mechanical stability of the cells is of crucial importance here in order to guarantee the consistently high quality and service life of the batteries. The newly developed formation trays from ZELL® now make this process more efficient, safer and space-saving.

Efficient design for maximum performance

The ZELL® formation trays have been specially developed for prismatic battery cells and offer double-sided tensioning by means of torque. This innovative design allows for even pressure distribution on the cells, preventing uncontrolled expansion during formation. The design ensures optimum contact, which increases process stability and protects the batteries from mechanical damage.

In addition, the tray has been designed to minimize the space required in production and logistics. The compact design means that more battery cells can be transported and stored in the same space, which significantly reduces logistics and handling costs. This is particularly advantageous for high-volume manufacturers who need to continuously optimize their production processes.

Areas of application: From automotive to stationary storage

The ZELL® formation trays are an ideal solution for companies in various energy storage sectors. Automotive manufacturers who produce battery cells for electric vehicles in particular benefit from the stable formation. The mechanical fixation of the cells ensures that the chemical structure of the batteries does not change negatively during the forming process. This not only improves the cycle stability, but also increases the range of the vehicles, as the batteries retain a higher energy efficiency.

The trays are also suitable for the production of stationary energy storage systems. Companies that produce energy storage systems for households, industrial plants or grid services can use the ZELL® Formation Trays to ensure the consistently high quality of their batteries. The space-saving design also enables more efficient use of production capacity.

Economic and sustainable advantage

A key advantage of the new formation trays is the reduction in production costs. The improved process stability reduces rejects and ensures that fewer faulty battery cells are produced. This not only saves material costs, but also reduces energy consumption in production.

In addition to the economic benefits, the formation trays also contribute to sustainability. The more stable formation of the battery cells leads to a longer service life of the energy storage units, which reduces the number of batteries that need to be replaced. This has a direct positive impact on the carbon footprint of the entire supply chain.

ZELL® as a leading supplier in Europe

ZELL® has developed the first prototypes together with Bosch and Schuler. The close cooperation with leading companies in the industry underlines the quality and innovative strength of the formation trays. The first major inquiries have already been received from Korea, highlighting the potential of the technology at an international level. Despite the lead in Asia.

The company has set itself the goal of further optimizing battery cell production through intelligent solutions and establishing itself as a leading European supplier of formation trays. Through continuous further development and close cooperation with partners from the industry, ZELL® will continue to improve its products and adapt them to the needs of the growing electromobility and energy storage markets. In addition, production costs can be further reduced with each successfully implemented project and the knowledge gained from it.

Conclusion

The ZELL® formation trays are a pioneering solution for battery cell production. They offer manufacturers of batteries for electric vehicles and stationary energy storage systems a more efficient, stable and economical way of forming their cells. The sophisticated design not only increases process reliability, but also contributes to sustainability. With its innovative strength and strong partners, ZELL® is setting new standards in battery cell production and establishing itself as a leading company in this field.

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