The Hindu Business Line : High Energy Batteries to expand market range

High Energy Batteries has its production facility in Tiruchi with its Nickel-Cadmium batteries being approved for use in aircraft, helicopters, torpedoes, missiles, satellite launch vehicles, battle tanks and army communications systems.

According to Mr N. Gopalaratnam, Chairman of the group, High Energy Batteries is now looking to expand its market range. The Nickel-Cadmium batteries find application in a wide range of industries where heavy-duty power is required.

These are low maintenance batteries that can also be used where uninterrupted power supply is needed including in computers, he said.

According to a highly placed company official, High Energy Batteries has also got clearance for use of its range in civil aviation and is exploring opportunities in that market. There are less than a handful of companies in the niche area and competition is stiff.

The company has fibre Nickel-Cadmium line of batteries, which are fast replacing the `pocket-plate' type that need regular maintenance and electrolyte refilling. The new line does not need regular maintenance except for topping up with distilled water once a year. The performance is also better and the batteries can be made for a wide range of applications including heavy duty to low rate requirements for small uninterruptible power systems (UPS), the official said.

The industrial line would be launched soon, he said. The range has been tested in the market and the company has a capacity to manufacture one or two batteries consisting of over 300 cells and an output of about 500 amps. A market survey is on and the production capacity would be expanded appropriately, he said.

High Energy Batteries had reported a profit after tax of Rs 23.52 lakh on a turnover of Rs 4.72 crore for the quarter ended June 30, 2005. During the corresponding period in the previous year the company reported a net profit of Rs 41.71 lakh on a turnover of Rs 6.62 crore. The company attributed the drop in profit and turnover to late receipt of orders, and expects performance to pick up during the coming quarters.

Article E-Mail :: Comment :: Syndication :: Printer Friendly Page