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- Amprius completes qualification process for SiMaxxTM battery mass production tool, will ramp up capacity to 2 MWh
Amprius completes qualification process for SiMaxxTM battery mass production tool, will ramp up capacity to 2 MWh
Amprius Technologies, Inc., a manufacturer of next-generation lithium-ion batteries, has completed the qualification process for its centrotherm mass production deposition tool. This tool will be used to manufacture silicon nanowire anodes, marking a significant step in increasing production capacity to meet the growing demand for its ultra-high-energy SiMaxx cells in electric vehicles.
Amprius has been focusing on its anode fabrication process for the centrotherm tool during its capacity expansion in Fremont. The goal is to achieve the targeted silicon anode performance necessary for Amprius to begin shipping commercial cells. The company’s demand pipeline is robust, with current SiMaxx capacity sold out through 2024. With the qualification process now complete, Amprius can complement its existing roll-to-roll systems with the centrotherm tool. This will enable an increase in SiMaxx shipments as Amprius advances its Fremont, California, production ramp to 2 MWh, representing approximately a 10X increase in capacity online exiting 2024.
Amprius mentioned they’re supported by several industry partners, such as BAE systems. The company’s ultra-high-energy cells are crucial for extending the operating capability of BAE Systems’ PHASA-35 High-Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) vehicle.
Amprius Technologies’ SiMaxx batteries deliver up to 450 Wh/kg and 1,150 Wh/L, with third party validation of 500Wh/kg and 1,300 Wh/L. Amprius maintains an R&D lab and a MWh scale manufacturing facility for the fabrication of silicon anodes and cells in Fremont, California. To serve customer demand, Amprius has leased an approximately 774,000 square foot facility in Brighton, Colorado, and expanded its product portfolio to include the SiCore platform.
Robert Davidson from BAE Systems emphasized the importance of Amprius’ qualification progress, stating, “The availability of ultra-high-energy cells is paramount to extend the operating capability of our PHASA-35 High-Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) vehicle. We are excited that Amprius is increasing the production capacity of its most advanced cells, aligning with our goal of establishing aircraft capable of addressing next-generation applications in long endurance, high altitude, and communications.”