When it comes to choosing the right battery for your application , you likely have a list of conditions you need tofulfill.How much voltage is needed , what is the capacity requirement , cyclic or standby , etc.

Once you have the specifics narrowed down you may be wondering do i need a lithium battery or a traditional sealed lead acid battery “Or, more importantly “what is the difference between lithium and sealed lead acid? “There are several factors to consider before choosing a battery chemistry, as both have strengths and weaknesses.

For the purpose of this blog, lithium refers to Lithium Iron Phosphate（LifePo4) batteries only, and sla refers to lead acid/sealed lead acid batteries

CYCLIC PERFORMANCE LITHIUM VS SLA

The most notable difference between lithium iron phosphate and lead acid is the fact that the lithium battery. Capacity is independent of the discharge rate. The figure below compares the actual capacity as a percentage of the rated capacity of the battery versus the discharge rate as expressed by c (c equals the discharge current divided by the capacity rating). With very high discharge rates, for instance. 8C, the capacity of the lead acid battery is only 60% of the rated capacity. Find out more about C rates of batteries.

Therefore, in cyclic applications where the discharge rate is often greater than 0.1C, a lower rated lithium battery will often have a higher actual capacity than the comparable lead acid battery. This means that at the same capacity rating,the lithium will cost more, but you can use a lower capacity lithium for the same application at a lower price. The cost of ownership when you consider the cycle, further increases the value of the lithium battery when compared to a lead acid battery.

The second most notable difference between SLA and Lithium is the cycle performance of lithium. Lithium has ten times the cycle life of SLA under most conditions. This brings the cost per cycle of lithium lower than SLA, meaning you will have to replace a lithium battery less often than SLA in a cyclic application.

CONSTANT POWER DELIVERY LITHIUM VS LEAD ACID

Lithium delivers the same amount of power throughout the entire discharge cycle,whereas an SLA’s power delivery starts out strong , but dissipates . The constant power advantage of lithium is shown in the graph below which shows voltage versus the state of charge.

A lithium battery as shown in the orange has a constant voltage as it discharges throughout the entire discharge. Power is a function of voltage times current. The current demand will be constant and thus the power delivered,power times current,will be constant. So, let’s put this in a real-life example.

Have you ever turned on a flashlight and noticed it’s dimmer than the last time you turned it on?Battery inside the flashlight is dying, but not yet completely dead. It is giving off a little power, but not enough to fully illuminate the bulb.

If this were a lithium battery, the bulb would be just as bright from the beginning of its life to the end. Instead of Waning, the bulb would just not turn on at all if the battery were dead.

CHARGING TIMES OF LITHIUM AND SLA

Charging SLA batteries is notoriously slow.In most cyclic applications,you need to have extra SLA batteries available so you can still use your application while the other battery is charging. In standby applications , an SLA battery must be kept on a float charge.

With lithium batteries,charging is four times faster than SLA. The faster charging means there is more time the battery is in use,and therefore requires less batteries.They also recover quickly after an event ( like in a backup or standby application ).As a bonus , there is no need to keep lithium on a float charge for storage . For more information on how to charge a lithium battery , please view our Lithium Charging Guide

HIGH TEMPERATURE BATTERY PERFORMANCE

Lithium’s performance is far superior than SLA in high temperature applications . In fact , lithium at 55°C still has twice the cycle life as SLA does at room temperature Lithium will outperform lead under most conditions but is especially strong at elevated temperatures.

COLD TEMPERATURE BATTERY PERFORMANCE

Cold temperatures can cause significant capacity reduction for all battery chemistries. Knowing this, there are two things to consider when evaluating a battery for cold temperature use : charging and discharging. A lithium battery will not accept a charge at a low temperature ( below 32°F ).However an SLA can accept low current charges at a low temperature.

Conversely, a lithium battery has a higher discharge capacity at cold temperatures than SLA . This means that lithium batteries do not have to be over designed for cold temperatures , but charging could be a limiting factor . At 0°F，lithium is discharged at 70% of its rated capacity , but SLA is at 45%.

One thing to consider in cold temperature is the state of the lithium battery when you want to charge it. If the battery has just finished discharging, the battery will have generated enough heat to accept a charge. If the battery has had a chance to cool down, it may not accept a charge if the temperature is below 32F°.

BATTERY INSTALLATION

If you have ever tried to install a lead acid battery, you know how important it is to not install it in an invert position to prevent any potential issues with venting . While an SLA is designed to not leak , the vents allow for some residual release of the gasses.

In a lithium battery design , the cells are all individually sealed and cannot leak . This means there is no restriction in the installation orientation of a lithium battery . It can be installed on its side , upside down , or standing up with no issues.

BATTERY WEIGHT COMPARISION

Lithium, on average, is 55% lighter than SLA. In cycling applications, this is especially important when the battery is being installed in a mobile application ( batteries for motorcycles or scooters ) , or where weight may impact the performance ( like in robotics ) . For standby use , weight is an important consideration in remote applications ( solar fields ) and where installation is difficult ( up high in emergency lighting systems , for example).

SLA VS LITHIUM BATTERY STORAGE

Lithium should not be stored at 100% State of Charge ( SOC ) , whereas SLA needs to be stored at 100%. This is because the self-discharge rate of an SLA battery is 5 times or greateat of a lithium battery. In fact, many customers will maintain a lead acid battery in storage with a trickle charger to continuously. Keep the battery at 100% so that the battery life does not decrease due to storage.

SERIES & PARALLEL BATTERY INSTALLATION

A quick and important note: when installing batteries in series and parallel it is important that they are matched across all factors including capacity , voltage , resistance , state of charge , and chemistry . SLA and lithium batteries cannot be used together in the same string.

Since an SLA battery is considered a “dumb “battery in comparison to lithium ( which has a circuit board that monitors and protects the battery ), it can handle many more batteries in a string than lithium.

The string length of lithium is limited by the components on the circuit board. Circuit board components can have current and voltage limitations that long series strings will exceed . For example, a series string of four lithium batteries will have a max voltage of 51.2 volts . A second factor is the protection of the batteries . One battery that exceeds the protection limits can disrupt the charging and discharging of the entire string of batteries . Most lithium strings are limited to 6 or less ( model dependent ) , but higher string lengths can be reached with additional engineering.

There are many differences between SLA and lithium battery performance . In most instances lithium is the stronger battery. However, SLA should not be discounted as it still has an edge over lithium in some applications, like long strings, extremely high rate of discharge , and cold temperature charging. If there is an application not covered above, or if you have additional questions , please feel free to contact us.

Your electrical equipment is under constant threat of damage due to power outages. Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) are the ideal solution to protect you and your business from construction-related hazards like bad weather and faulty electrical wiring.

Below is a curated list of recommended UPS devices that are ideal for your home, server room, or business. We’ve carefully researched the market to find only the best options for data protection, hardware component protection and cooling, automatic voltage regulation, network system backup, and uninterrupted power distribution.

This means you don’t have to spend time categorizing the endless and confusing UPS devices on the market, which can free up your time to focus on expanding your personal projects and business ventures.

However, before you shop for the best Rackmount Battery Backup, check out the list of things to consider when deciding which device is best for you.

What To Consider

You may be wondering how to find out which UPS is right for you. The correct rackmount UPS will vary by case and use case, so before you browse the rackmount uninterruptible power supplies, here are a few factors to consider.

1. Number of stores

The number of outlets depends on the rack mount UPS. Before making a decision, consider the current electronic device and the expected future device.

To do this, you need to consider all the elements you have, and one day you may need to provide the perfect workplace, regardless of power conditions.

2. Power requirements

You can estimate the power required based on the amount and type of equipment you plan to connect to the UPS. Check the specifications of all the equipment and add them to select a rack-mount UPS with optional power supplies.

When calculating, pay attention to the power unit of each machine. Some rack-mounted UPSs are only rated for volt-amps or watts, while others offer both. If the conversion rate is wrong, you may end up with a UPS that doesn’t meet its target.

3. Backup execution time

Rack UPS standby time is the time during which the unit can be disconnected from the network. This often depends on the number of connected devices and battery capacity. So, when choosing the best UPS, choose one that can last long enough to keep your work safe and give you time to switch to an alternative power source.

Introduction

Lithium-ion batteries and lead acid batteries are two commonly used energy storage systems. In this article, we will compare their performance and efficiency to help homeowners, businesses, and professionals make informed decisions when choosing between the two batteries.

Performance Comparison

Energy density: Lithium-ion batteries have a higher energy density compared to lead acid batteries. This means that lithium-ion batteries can store more energy in the same physical size, making them ideal for applications where space is limited.

Cycle life: Lithium-ion batteries also outperform lead acid batteries in terms of cycle life. While lead acid batteries typically have a cycle life of around 300-500 cycles, lithium-ion batteries can last for thousands of cycles before experiencing a significant decrease in performance.

Charging/discharging efficiency: Lithium-ion batteries have higher charging and discharging efficiency compared to lead acid batteries. This means that more energy is effectively stored and released during the charging and discharging process, resulting in better overall performance.

Efficiency Comparison

Self-discharge rate: One area where lead acid batteries have an advantage is in their self-discharge rate. Lead acid batteries have a lower self-discharge rate compared to lithium-ion batteries, which means they can hold their charge for longer periods without the need for frequent recharging.

Maintenance requirements: Lithium-ion batteries have a significant advantage over lead acid batteries when it comes to maintenance requirements. Lead acid batteries require regular maintenance, including checking electrolyte levels and cleaning terminals. On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries are virtually maintenance-free, allowing for hassle-free operation.

Applications and Benefits of Lithium-ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries have found widespread applications in various industries. They are commonly used in electric vehicles, portable electronics, renewable energy systems, and backup power solutions. Their high energy density, long cycle life, and efficient performance make them ideal for these applications. Additionally, lithium-ion batteries are lightweight and have a smaller footprint compared to lead acid batteries, providing flexibility in design and installation.

Cost Considerations

When it comes to cost, lithium-ion batteries initially have a higher upfront cost compared to lead acid batteries. However, considering their longer cycle life and higher efficiency, lithium-ion batteries often offer a better return on investment in the long run. Additionally, the decreasing cost of lithium-ion battery technology is making them more affordable and accessible.

Environmental Impact

In terms of environmental impact, lithium-ion batteries are generally considered more environmentally friendly compared to lead acid batteries. Lead acid batteries contain hazardous materials such as lead and sulfuric acid, which can pose risks to the environment if not properly managed. On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries are recyclable and do not contain toxic materials, reducing the potential environmental impact.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when comparing lithium-ion batteries with lead acid batteries, it is clear that lithium-ion batteries offer superior performance and efficiency. With higher energy density, longer cycle life, better charging/discharging efficiency, and lower maintenance requirements, lithium-ion batteries are the preferred choice for many applications. While lead acid batteries have a lower self-discharge rate, the benefits of lithium-ion batteries outweigh this advantage. Moreover, considering the cost and environmental impact, lithium-ion batteries are a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for energy storage systems.

Battery packs play a crucial role in the operation of commercial vehicles such as micro cargo vans, light trucks and heavy trucks. These vehicles heavily rely on battery power to ensure smooth and efficient operations. In this article, we will explore the importance of reliable battery packs for commercial vehicles, their features and specifications, as well as the benefits they bring to each vehicle type.

Introduction to Battery Packs for Commercial Vehicles

A. Definition and importance of battery packs for micro cargo vans, light trucks and heavy trucks

Battery packs are essential components of commercial vehicles, providing the necessary power for their operation. Micro cargo vans, light trucks and heavy trucks all require reliable battery packs to ensure optimal performance and efficient transportation. Without a dependable battery pack, these vehicles would struggle to start, run, and meet the demands of their daily operations.

B. Significance of reliable battery packs for commercial vehicles

Commercial vehicle owners and fleet managers understand the significance of reliable battery packs. They rely on the performance and longevity of these battery packs to keep their vehicles running smoothly. A reliable battery pack ensures that the vehicles can start consistently, even in extreme weather conditions. It also provides sufficient power to operate various electrical systems and accessories, such as lights, air conditioning, and in-cabin electronics.

Battery Pack Options for Micro Cargo Vans and Their Advantages

A. Overview of battery pack solutions for micro cargo vans

Micro cargo vans have gained popularity in urban transportation due to their compact size and maneuverability. These vans often require battery packs that offer a balance between power output and space efficiency. Battery pack solutions for micro cargo vans are designed to fit within the limited space available while providing sufficient power for the vehicle’s operation.

B. Different types of battery packs available for micro cargo vans

There are several battery pack options available for micro cargo vans, including lithium-ion, lead-acid, and hybrid battery packs. Lithium-ion battery packs are lightweight and offer high energy density, making them ideal for micro cargo vans where weight and space are critical factors. Lead-acid battery packs are more affordable and have been widely used in traditional vehicles, providing a reliable power source for micro cargo vans. Hybrid battery packs combine the advantages of both lithium-ion and lead-acid technologies, offering a balance between performance and cost.

C. Advantages and benefits of using battery packs in micro cargo vans

Using battery packs in micro cargo vans brings numerous advantages. Firstly, battery packs provide a quieter and emission-free operation, making micro cargo vans suitable for urban environments and reducing their environmental impact. Secondly, battery packs offer instant torque, improving the acceleration and overall performance of micro cargo vans. Lastly, battery packs in micro cargo vans require less maintenance compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, resulting in reduced operating costs.

Benefits of Using Battery Packs in Light Trucks

A. Introduction to light truck battery packs

Light trucks, commonly used for delivery services and small-scale transportation, also benefit from the use of battery packs. These vehicles require reliable power sources to operate various electrical systems, including engine starting, lighting, and electronic accessories. Battery packs for light trucks are designed to be compact and efficient, providing sufficient power in a smaller form factor.

B. Advantages of using battery packs in light trucks

Using battery packs in light trucks offers several advantages. Firstly, they provide consistent and reliable power for engine starting, ensuring that light trucks can operate smoothly without any hiccups. Secondly, battery packs allow for the operation of various electrical systems, such as GPS, communication devices, and refrigeration units, enhancing the efficiency and convenience of light truck operations. Finally, battery packs for light trucks are often designed with quick recharge capabilities, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.

C. Impact of battery packs on light truck efficiency and performance

Battery packs have a substantial impact on the efficiency and performance of light trucks. With a reliable power source, light trucks can start quickly and operate efficiently, reducing idle time and fuel consumption. Battery packs also contribute to the overall performance of light trucks by providing the necessary power for various electrical systems, improving the overall functionality and productivity of these vehicles.

Features and Specifications of Battery Packs for Heavy Trucks

A. Overview of heavy truck battery packs

Heavy trucks require robust battery packs due to their demanding nature. These battery packs are designed to withstand the high power requirements of heavy truck engines and other electrical systems. They are typically larger in size, have higher capacity, and are built with durable materials to handle the heavy-duty applications of these vehicles.

B. Key features and specifications of heavy truck battery packs

When it comes to heavy truck battery packs, some key features and specifications are crucial. These battery packs often have higher voltage ratings to match the power demands of heavy truck engines. They also come with advanced technologies, such as deep cycle capabilities and intelligent battery management systems, to ensure long-lasting performance and efficient power usage. Additionally, heavy truck battery packs are designed to be vibration and shock-resistant to withstand the rugged conditions of commercial trucking.

C. Importance of battery pack efficiency and performance in heavy trucks

Efficiency and performance are critical factors in heavy truck battery packs. Efficient battery packs ensure optimal power usage, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. They also prolong the overall lifespan of the battery, resulting in cost savings for commercial vehicle owners. Furthermore, high-performance battery packs provide the necessary power for heavy truck engines to start reliably, even in cold weather conditions.

Conclusion

A. Summary of the importance and benefits of reliable battery packs for commercial vehicles

Reliable battery packs are vital for the smooth operation of commercial vehicles, including micro cargo vans, light trucks and heavy trucks. They provide the necessary power for these vehicles to start consistently, operate various electrical systems, and enhance overall efficiency and performance. Commercial vehicle owners and fleet managers understand the importance of reliable battery packs in ensuring optimal operations and minimizing downtime.

B. How battery packs can enhance efficiency for commercial vehicle owners and fleet managers

Battery packs offer numerous benefits to commercial vehicle owners and fleet managers. They contribute to improved fuel economy, reduced emissions, and overall cost savings. Battery packs also enhance the efficiency of commercial vehicle operations by providing reliable power, reducing maintenance requirements, and increasing productivity. With reliable battery packs, commercial vehicle owners and fleet managers can focus on their core operations, knowing that their vehicles are powered by dependable and efficient energy sources.

In conclusion, reliable battery packs are essential components for commercial vehicles, including micro cargo vans, light trucks and heavy trucks. These battery packs provide the necessary power for smooth operation, enhance efficiency, and contribute to cost savings. Commercial vehicle owners, fleet managers, and automotive enthusiasts can benefit greatly from understanding the features, specifications, and advantages of battery packs for various commercial vehicle types.