E&MU: Capacitors Offer Jolt of Electrical Power

ith the increasing number of electrically driven components and greater demand for driver comforts, the desire for extra electrical capacity on trucks is becoming nearly insatiable. A technology that is finding growing use in trucking involves the use of capacitors. A capacitor stores reserve energy much like a bucket stores water.

Though used widely in other markets, capacitors have just begun to make their mark in our industry. This is not a new, unproven technology but its application to trucking is a relatively recent novelty.

Sometimes referred to as ultra-capacitors, these components can lengthen battery life and start engines more efficiently. Capacitors yield a 30- to 40-pound weight savings over traditional heavy-truck batteries. They also serve as a “buffer” for truck electrical systems. Because of their ability to handle sudden amperage draws from auxiliary components, they help to reduce the extreme voltage drops that might occur without them.