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3 Types Of Batteries For UPS That Every Person Should Be Aware Of!

24 Jul 2023
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Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) is considered one of the most crucial elements during any critical power loss.

While UPS is considered one of the best solutions during a power outage, it is the batteries of the UPS that keep the device functioning during any critical solution.

In simple terms, UPS is a device that keeps your computer systems and other critical devices safe during unexpected power cut-offs by providing battery backup power.

As batteries play several roles in our day-to-day activity from the initial power needed to start any equipment to acting as a backup source of electricity in public transport, etc. Batteries are an important factor when it comes to a UPS, but still, UPS batteries are neglected the most and due to this UPS systems shelf-life decreases. 

 

The battery connected to a UPS system is the key to its continuous operation.

 

It is important to ensure that the batteries are charged correctly. Batteries that are too cold or too hot negatively affect the UPS systems in conducting and storing energy. Always refer to the battery manufacturer’s specification for properly maintaining the battery. It is anticipated that an 8-10°C increase in temperature reduces the battery life to half. 

 

UPS systems make use of a variety of batteries, but there are 3 main types of UPS batteries. 

 

-Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA)

-Flooded Cell or VLA Batteries

-Lithium-Ion Batteries

 

1- Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VRLA)

 

VRLA batteries are also known as “sealed” or “maintenance free”. VRLA batteries are the most common UPS battery found in the market. This battery requires less maintenance than the flooded cell battery. These battery systems provide excellent performance and efficiency with low impedance and attractive purchasing costs. VRLA batteries are equipped with a valve that build-up of gas externally. VLRA batteries do not need to be topped up with water, it is important to keep the environment cool near the batteries to avoid rapid water loss. 

 

Some of the features of VRLA Batteries are: 

 

- These batteries require minimum maintenance

- VRLA Batteries are economical

- The batteries of VRLA are safe in the long term as compared to the other UPS batteries

- The Batteries are easily available in market 

- The capacity range of VRLA batteries is high

 

2- Flooded Cell or Vented Lead Acid (VLA) Batteries

 

VLA batteries typically have a longer battery life span, which is of 20 years. The batteries consist of a thick plate, made of lead and immersed in acid electrolyte. Compared to VRLA batteries, VLA batteries have a higher upfront cost. VLA batteries need to be handled carefully for effective performance. Safety measures should be taken for VLA batteries as they need their separate battery room due to potential chemical hazards that they pose. If you fail to maintain your batteries, they will corrode and fail as their lead plates start to weaken when touching the atmosphere. VLA batteries require more work but they hold a very good price. VLA batteries are widely used for backup power, backup power supplies, etc. VLA batteries come in a variety of shapes and sizes due to their usage in multiple industries and applications. 

 

Some of the advantages of VLA batteries are

 

- They are more available worldwide

- They tend to last longer than sealed batteries

- They are easy to troubleshoot

 

3- Lithium-Ion Batteries (LIB)

 

Lithium-Ion Batteries are made of metal oxide. Lithium-Ion is not only used for UPS, they are also used to power electric vehicles. These batteries are small and lightweight and they come with built-in battery monitoring. Where power availability has the absolute highest priority, Lithium-Ion UPS batteries are becoming a substitute for LA Batteries in Data Center operations as they offer high reliability than VRLA solutions. In Lithium-ion batteries, no memory or no scheduled cycling is required to prolong their battery life. Lithium-Ion is delicate and it needs a protection circuit to maintain safe operation. The in-built battery management system keeps a check on the voltage, charge current, and temperature of the batteries.

 

Advantages of Lithium-Ion Batteries

 

- The battery improves indoor air quality and reduces the risk of accidents by eliminating exposure to flammable fuels.

- The batteries are easy and fast charging, which means less downtime for a machine.

- Lithium-Ion batteries do not need to be watered like other lead-acid batteries that need to be monitored and with the water level.

- Lithium-Ion batteries lifespan can be eight years or more.

 

CONCLUSION:

 

Before you choose a UPS battery, it is important to understand what options you have and if you are capable of maintaining them for good results. 

It is advised to perform a visual inspection of your batteries, once a year to make sure that the batteries are in good condition. When visually examining, it is also important to look at the battery rack and cabinets.

 No matter if the battery is Valve Regulated Lead Acid (VLRA), Flooded Cell/ VLA Batteries, or Lithium-Ion Batteries, it is important to regularly maintain these batteries so that you have a power back-up when needed. 

There are 5 leading causes that affect the life of your UPS Batteries. 

Never install batteries in an air-tight room. Always ask for a suggestion from trained personnel regarding the placement of the batteries. It is recommended, only trained service partner/provider should attempt any battery service or maintenance. 

UPS and its batteries will not last forever, therefore it is highly recommended to take the preventive measures that can be implemented to identify, fix and minimize downtime. 

 

-Email us at marketing@msplgroup.com

-Call on +91 96960 86262/ 022-40991100  

 

 

 


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