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A Comparative Review of Pneumatic Cylinders and Magnetic Actuators in the Design of Automatic Pouch Cell Folding Machines: Implications for Zimbabwe's Battery Manufacturing Industry

MicCurrie Hudube*, Oscar Gwatidzo**, Godfrey Tigere***

*-*** Harare Institute of Technology, Harare, Zimbabwe.

Periodicity:January - March'2025
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jme.15.1.21721

Abstract

The global shift toward renewable energy and electric vehicles (EVs) has increased the demand for Lithium-Ion batteries, particularly pouch cells. Automatic pouch cell folding machines are essential for ensuring the precision and efficiency of battery manufacturing. In Zimbabwe, where the mining of Lithium, a key raw material for batteries, is expanding, the development of a local battery manufacturing industry presents a significant economic opportunity. This paper compares two key actuation technologies, pneumatic cylinders and magnetic actuators, in the context of designing automatic pouch cell folding machines. The analysis considers factors such as performance, energy efficiency, precision, maintenance, and cost, with a focus on their applicability to Zimbabwe's Industrial and economic landscape. The paper concludes with recommendations for adopting the most suitable technology to support Zimbabwe's emerging battery manufacturing sector.

Keywords

Lithium Mining, Battery Manufacturing, Pouch Cells, Actuation Technology, Energy Efficiency.

How to Cite this Article?

Hudube, M., Gwatidzo, O., and Tigere, G. (2025). A Comparative Review of Pneumatic Cylinders and Magnetic Actuators in the Design of Automatic Pouch Cell Folding Machines: Implications for Zimbabwe's Battery Manufacturing Industry. i-manager’s Journal on Mechanical Engineering, 15(1), 28-32. https://doi.org/10.26634/jme.15.1.21721

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A Comparative Review of Pneumatic Cylinders and Magnetic Actuators in the Design of Automatic Pouch Cell Folding Machines: Implications for Zimbabwe's Battery Manufacturing Industry

Abstract

Keywords

How to Cite this Article?

References

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