The manufacturing company undertook a thorough research process, evaluating many of the lithium-ion battery options available on the market, and identified the Vanguard 48V 1,5kWh swappable battery pack (Si1.5) from Briggs & Stratton as meeting all its parameters. The interchangeability of the Vanguard Si1.5 allows one battery to charge while another is in use, enabling continuous operation of the concrete trowel as required with just two batteries in need. This significantly impacts operational efficiency, ensuring machines run for longer periods with virtually no downtime caused by charging.

The high-power cells of the Si1.5 battery also allow for extremely fast charging currents - only 50 minutes to 80% and 75 minutes to 100% with Vanguard’s 1425W mobile charger - ensuring that batteries are quickly ready for the next swap, whereas one Si1.5 can operate for up to 90 minutes on a single charge.

As well as meeting these key requirements, the Vanguard Si1.5 battery guarantees durability in tough conditions with its sturdy casing and built-in battery management system, which is vital in the heavy-duty equipment sector. The Si1.5 also stands out for its excellent connectivity, thanks to the J1939 CAN-bus communication protocol, which allows the battery to communicate effectively with other components of equipment for seamless integration and efficient operation regardless of the brand.

Designed with a safety-first mentality, each Vanguard battery is equipped with a battery management system (BMS) which monitors the voltage, current, resistance and temperature while the pack is in use, as well as providing thermal runaway protection and communicating with the application to avoid shutdowns. It also controls the charge and discharge to maximise battery life.

B-Mac’s newest series of electric concrete trowels, designed specifically for the rental industry, includes three models with working diameters ranging from 60 to 90 cm. All are powered by Vanguard’s Si1.5 swappable lithium-ion battery. The 60 cm model is compact and well-suited for small areas, offering a 90-minute runtime. The 75 cm version strikes a balance between power and size, making it ideal for medium projects with a runtime of up to 80 minutes. The largest option features a 90 cm width and a 60-minute runtime, perfect for large open spaces.

Paul Bramhall, Director of Electrification/Rental EMEA at Briggs & Stratton said, “We are proud to have supported B-mac in the development of this new product, delivering against all their requirements and those of the rental industry, ultimately bringing an exciting new electric product to the construction market. Our Vanguard 48V 1,5kWh swappable commercial battery pack delivers safety and durability for users, as well as easy interchangeability between equipment and charger for minimal downtime, making it perfectly suited to the rental market. And as an added bonus, our competitive 8-year commercial limited warranty provides essential peace of mind.”

B-mac’s electric walk behind concrete trowel has refreshed the professional delivery of concrete finishing, enhancing the process for operators with no compromise on efficiency. Running on Vanguard’s game-changing swappable lithium-ion battery pack Si1.5, delivering up to 90  minutes with one charge, B-mac’s electric walk behind trowels ensure zero-emissions at point of use and provide comfortable, communicative and compliant indoor use.