Industrial batteries

Industrial batteries are no different from household or automobile batteries in that they perform the same basic function, i.e. convert chemical energy into electrical energy. The only difference between them is in their size and their overall durability. For example, industrial batteries are generally bulkier than household or automobile batteries. Industrial batteries are also different because they are designed to provide power for much longer durations compared to household batteries, which require recharging every 4 to 6 hours depending on the usage, and automobile batteries, which keep getting recharged when the engine is on.

Some industrial batteries are so durable that they can be used until they get completely drained off, without affecting the battery’s life cycle or its performance.

Industrial batteries are loaded with all these features simply because in industries only those products are used that are durable and reliable. A lot is at stake in industries, both big and small, in terms of both reputation and profitability, and this is why companies prefer using high performance products such as industrial batteries.

The kind of high performance batteries that are most commonly used in industries are lead-acid batteries. They are preferred not only because they are durable and low cost, but also because they deliver consistent performance year after year. Most of these batteries are classified as deep-cycle because 80 to 90 percent of the battery can be effectively discharged on a daily basis without adversely affecting its performance.

All industrial lead-acid batteries, whether large or small, are basically electrical storage devices that produce electricity by using a Galvanic Cell. Galvanic cells form the basic structure of all devices that convert chemical energy into electrical energy, and comprise of a positive and a negative electrode, apart from the electrolyte solution that is required for generating electricity. The two main chemicals that are used in the electrolyte solution of these batteries are sulfuric acid and water. When an industrial battery is fully charged, the ratio of water to acid is usually 70 to 30 percent. The ratio may change when the battery is being used, because some part of the water evaporates due to the heat generated by the battery.

From the outside, industrial batteries may look just like an automobile battery, but they use different components such as the metal plates, which measure more than 1/4″ in width, which is approximately seven times thicker than the metal plates used in normal automotive batteries, which usually have a thickness of 1/25”. Thicker plates are used in industrial batteries because they are more corrosive resistant to the acid inside the battery, thereby increasing the overall life of the battery.

Although industrial batteries are built to last a long time, it does not mean that they do not require care and maintenance. Most of these batteries are designed to function at 85 to 95 percent efficiency, but to derive such high performance and increase their life, it is necessary for the users to get them checked on a regular basis and follow the other guidelines prescribed by the manufacturer.